From “Rentier State” to “Global Emirates”: a brief political and socioeconomical analysis of the United Arab Emirates until the Gulf Moment (1971-2011)

Abstract

The region of the Middle East is, itself, a symbol of political, economic and cultural plurality. The same is said concerning the Persian Gulf, territory widely known for harboring monarchies and the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC). Among the members of the organization, one has been highlighting for expressing longings and desires in international relations over the past decade: the United Arab Emirates (UAE). With nearly forty years of autonomy, the country became milestone of economic internationalization and symbol of progress, stability and national identity during the period referred as "Gulf Moment". This article aims to analyse the main historical, political, economic and social aspects that induced the international insertion success promoted by the Emirates in recent years. In conclusion there is the confirmation of the initial hypothesis, which stands on the assertion that the policy configuration (federalism), domestic stability, process of nation-building, immense oil reserves, social inclusion of women and the diplomatic strategies were crucial, and essential variables in the case of national construction, to consolidate the emirati’s momentum