Middle Eastern Challenges

About this episode

This episode explores the shifting dynamics between Saudi Arabia and the United Arab Emirates and its implications for Middle Eastern politics.

Much of the world’s attention remains fixed on Iran, Israel, and the Palestinian question. But another rivalry is quietly reshaping Middle Eastern politics: Saudi Arabia versus the United Arab Emirates. Once close partners, the two Gulf powers now find themselves moving from cooperation toward competition—and perhaps even confrontation. In this episode, Professor Rob Geist Pinfold explores what is driving the shift, what is at stake for regional leadership, and how Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman and Sheikh Mohammed bin Zayed are maneuvering for influence. While definitive answers may be premature, informed analysis reveals why this evolving relationship matters far beyond the Gulf.

People in this episode

Guest: Professor Rob Geist Pinfold

Topics covered

• Middle Eastern politics
• Saudi Arabia
• United Arab Emirates
• regional leadership
• competition
• influence

Keywords

• Middle East
• Saudi Arabia
• UAE
• politics
• competition
• Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman
• Sheikh Mohammed bin Zayed

Mentioned in this episode

Organizations: Saudi Arabia, United Arab Emirates

Places: Iran, Israel, Palestinian

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