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Chapter 3: Soft Power in the UAE

3.1 UAE Foreign Policy

Soft Power Role

Soft power has played a crucial role in shaping the UAE’s foreign policy since its establishment, notably during Sheikh Zayed's leadership. This approach emphasizes the importance of influence over coercion, using cultural diplomacy, economic assistance, and humanitarian aid to build a positive international image and foster relationships with other nations. The UAE's commitment to peace, stability, and development has positioned it as a mediator in regional conflicts and a proponent of dialogue and cooperation.

Initial Focus

At its foundation, the UAE concentrated on building an internal framework, akin to newly independent nations. This involved establishing governance structures, fostering national identity, and enhancing infrastructure, which created a stable and attractive environment for international partnerships.

Influential Events

Several key regional and international events influenced the UAE's foreign policy:

1. Gulf War: The UAE participated in the liberation of Kuwait in 1991, demonstrating military cooperation and fostering regional solidarity among Arab states. This involvement helped enhance its credibility and strengthened ties with allies, particularly the United States.

2. 9/11 Events: The September 11 attacks in 2001 shifted the global focus towards combating terrorism, causing the UAE to align itself with international counterterrorism efforts. The country enhanced its security protocols and invested in intelligence-sharing initiatives.

3. Fall of Baghdad: The US-led invasion of Iraq in 2003 created a power vacuum in the region that heightened insecurity and regional tensions, leading the UAE to adopt a more proactive foreign policy stance.

4. Iranian Expansion: The subsequent security vacuum allowed Iran to increase its influence across the Arab region, particularly in Lebanon, Yemen, and Iraq. The UAE grew concerned about Iranian territorial ambitions and sought to counterbalance Iranian power through coalition-building with Gulf neighbors.

5. Arab Spring: The Arab Spring led to increased instability in crucial regional capitals like Egypt and Syria, causing the UAE to stress the importance of stability and security in the face of unrest and the rise of non-state actors.

6. Emergence of Militant Groups: The rise of militant groups pushed agendas in the name of religion, troubling regional stability and prompting the UAE to engage more actively in countering these threats.

7. Decline of US Influence: The perceived decline of American supremacy in the region, especially during Obama’s presidency, warranted an active UAE role in regional politics, helping to fill the power gap left by an increasingly aloof United States.

3.2 UAE Foreign Policy Towards GCC

Formation of GCC

The Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) was established in response to the Iran-Iraq war in 1980, including the UAE and five other monarchies—Saudi Arabia, Kuwait, Qatar, Bahrain, and Oman. This body aimed to foster economic, political, and military cooperation among its members.

Sheikh Zayed's Role

Sheikh Zayed was integral to the GCC's founding discussions, starting with talks held in 1976. His foresight and diplomatic skills played a crucial role in bringing the member states together, working to establish a united front against external threats.

Strategic Need

The GCC was also a reaction to the political void left by the British departure from the Arabian Gulf, as local monarchies sought to navigate ongoing regional tensions. By uniting under the GCC umbrella, these states aimed to enhance their collective security and economic collaboration.

First Meeting

The inaugural GCC meeting took place in Abu Dhabi on May 25, 1981. During this meeting, leaders addressed pressing regional issues and formalized their commitment to mutual defense and cooperation.

3.3 UAE Relations with GCC States

Core Relationship

The UAE considers its relationship with GCC states as pivotal to its foreign policy, rooted in shared history, culture, language, and religion. This close-knit relationship emphasizes regional unity despite political differences and disputes that can arise among member states.

Historical Context

Relations among GCC states were particularly stressed after the Iranian revolution in 1979, which prompted fears of Iranian expansion and influence among GCC states. As a result, the UAE and its neighbors sought to enhance their cooperation to counteract these regional shifts in power.

GCC Establishment

Amid these regional tensions, the establishment of the GCC in 1981 marked a significant step towards increasing security and solidarity among Gulf nations, reinforcing the importance of collective defense mechanisms.

Blockade of Qatar (2017)

In June 2017, the UAE, alongside Saudi Arabia, Bahrain, and Egypt, imposed a diplomatic and economic boycott on Qatar, straining GCC unity. This blockade arose from allegations against Qatar regarding the support of terrorism and regional instability, showcasing the underlying tensions that can prevail even among close allies.

3.4 UAE Foreign Policy in the MENA Region

3.4.1 Relations within the Arab League

Priorities

Maintaining robust relationships with Arab and Muslim nations is critical for the UAE, as these relationships are foundational to its foreign policy strategy. Economic collaboration and political solidarity among Arab states are priorities for the UAE.

Arab-Israeli Conflict

The UAE utilized economic means during the 1973 oil embargo to exert pressure on countries supporting Israel, showcasing its willingness to employ strategic economic leverage to influence geopolitical outcomes.

Aid to Palestine

The UAE has been a leading financial supporter for Palestine, notably through the Abu Dhabi Fund for Arab Economic Development, which plays a crucial role in financing development projects aimed at supporting Palestinian economic resilience.

Diplomatic Changes

The UAE severed ties with Egypt following President Sadat’s visit to Jerusalem in 1979, a critical turning point that reflected the complexities of Arab solidarity amid changing geopolitical dynamics.

Humanitarian Aid

From its inception, UAE aid has exceeded $47.4 billion, funding various humanitarian projects across the globe, reflecting the nation's commitment to development and support for those in need.

3.5 UAE Foreign Policy at the International Level

Global Cooperation

The UAE actively engages with multilateral organizations, placing itself among the top donor countries globally. It aims to establish itself as a crucial player in international dialogues concerning security, development, and humanitarian assistance.

OECD Engagement

In 2014, the UAE joined the OECD's Development Assistance Committee, highlighting its commitment to international development and cooperation efforts.

ODA Investment

By 2015, the UAE’s Official Development Assistance topped AED 16.1 billion, marking a high 1.09 percent of GNI, illustrating the country's ongoing efforts to contribute to global aid initiatives.

Cultural Generosity

The UAE’s commitment to humanitarian aid has led to the establishment of over 45 charity organizations focusing on various societal issues. These organizations work both domestically and internationally to provide assistance and promote cultural understanding.

3.5.1 UAE Relations with Iran

Strained Ties

Relations with Iran have been fluctuating, marked by economic interdependence despite political tensions. The UAE has balanced its concerns over Iran's regional behavior with practical economic relations.

Trade Dynamics

The UAE remains Iran's second largest trading partner, accounting for significant exports to the nation despite sanctions affecting Iranian businesses. This interdependence highlights the complex nature of their relationship, wherein economic pragmatism coexists with political rivalry.

3.5.2 UAE Relations with Major Powers

3.5.2.1 UAE and the US

Historical Ties

Since gaining independence, the UAE has cultivated a robust partnership with the US, primarily focusing on regional security and stability. This strategic relationship has been critical for the UAE's position in the region.

Bilateral Cooperation

The US and UAE collaborate across multiple sectors, including defense, cultural exchange, and economic development, enhancing their mutual interests and security frameworks.

Military Collaboration

UAE ports host more US naval vessels than any location outside the US, reflecting the depth of the defense relationship and the strategic importance of the UAE as a partner in securing maritime routes.

3.5.2.2 UAE and Russia

Strategic Partnership

The UAE and Russia have cultivated a relationship focused on regional security challenges, formalized through a treaty of strategic partnership. This collaboration has addressed conflicts in Syria and Libya, among other areas.

Economic Ties

In 2016, non-oil trade between Russia and the UAE reached USD 2.1 billion, marking a growing economic synergy that complements their strategic discussions and initiatives.

3.5.2.3 UAE and China

Historical Relations

The UAE and China's ties trace back to the Silk Road era and have evolved into a significant trade partnership, nurturing bilateral interests in trade, investment, and technology.

Trade Growth

The economy flourished with trade increasing from $46.3 billion in 2016 to $53.3 billion in 2017, demonstrating the thriving economic relations and mutual benefits realized through cooperation.

3.5.3 Relations with South Asia

3.5.3.1 UAE and India

Matured Relations

The bilateral relationship has flourished recently with high-level visits resulting in multiple agreements encompassing trade, security, and technology. Both nations see mutual benefits to their collaborative efforts and strategic alignment.

Trade Increase

Foreign trade surged from $182 million in 1982 to $53 billion in 2016–17, with a large Indian community in the UAE further enhancing ties, as they contribute significantly to the economy and cultural exchange.

3.5.3.2 UAE and Pakistan

Longstanding Relations

The UAE has maintained a strong relationship characterized by shared values and cooperative agreements across various sectors ranging from trade to defense.

Investment Focus

The UAE is Pakistan's largest Middle Eastern trading partner and investor, with committed projects enhancing mutual economic growth and reinforcing social ties through substantial remittances from the Pakistani diaspora in the UAE.

3.5.4 Relations with Latin America

Emerging Ties

Recent years have seen the UAE and Latin America forging stronger connections, including establishing business platforms aimed at enhancing trade and investment.

Trade Activity

Significant imports were recorded from key Latin American countries, showcasing increasing commercial exchanges that are fostering mutual economic interests.

3.5.5 Relations with Africa

Political Influence

The UAE has expanded its influence in the Horn of Africa through political alliances, military agreements, and increased aid, reflecting its strategic interest in the region's stability and development.

Peace Initiatives

The UAE contributed significantly to peace agreements in the region, underscoring its role as a key player in African geopolitics and efforts to stabilize regions affected by conflict.

3.5.6 Relations with International Organizations

Engagement with the UN

The UAE plays a vital role in various international organizations, actively promoting peace and humanitarian efforts through participation in UN missions and initiatives aimed at conflict resolution.

EU Relations

The UAE is a significant trading partner of the EU, fostering deepening relations since its establishment, characterized by growing economic cooperation and political dialogue aimed at enhancing mutual interests and collaboration.