The year 1973 is usually considered the great equaliser among major oil producers. But the 'Visions' strategies of Saudi Arabia and the United Arab Emirates, a so-called middle power and small state in the Middle East regional system, point to broadening economic relations as a great enhancer of economic power. This book explores the impact of regime type and leadership style on the two countries' foreign policies. It reveals how autonomy and influence, threat perception and alliance patterns are folded into the complex and personal riyal politik and economic statecraft that sit at the core of their international relations.

Reviews

'Though Saudi Arabia and the UAE are arguably now the most influential Arab states, their foreign policies and policymaking structures remain rather enigmatic. Conducting the most detailed investigation to date, Mason provides us with a substantive, well-researched analysis. Essential reading.'
Christopher M. Davidson, author of From Sheikhs to Sultanism: Statecraft and Authority in Saudi Arabia and the UAE

'This is an engaging account of the shift in foreign policy and strategic thinking in Saudi Arabia and the UAE. It places national imperatives at the heart of decision making and engagement with foreign powers. Mason bases his analysis on rich empirical data and offers new insights into foreign policy thinking on the United States and China against the backdrop of tension with Iran and expanding export markets in Asia. This book opens new avenues to explore and is a must read.'
Shahram Akbarzadeh, Research Professor of Middle East and Central Asian Politics, Deakin University

'Robert Mason has done yeoman work in chronicling and analysing in great detail the twists and turns of contemporary Saudi and Emirati foreign policy. The book is an indispensable source for understanding the international politics of the Middle East.'
F. Gregory Gause III, Professor, John H. Lindsey '44 Chair and Head of the International Affairs Department, Bush School of Government and Public Service, Texas A&M University

Introduction
1 A theoretical and conceptual framework
2 Politics in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia: state formation, political consolidation and reform
3 Politics in the United Arab Emirates: state consolidation, security and ambition
4 Iran: a supreme ontological threat
5 The Middle East: counter-revolutionaries united?
6 United States: partisan politics, carte blanche and policy variation
7 China's Belt and Road Initiative: bilateralism versus alliances
8 Relations with Europe: conditionality and unity
9 Russia: arms, energy and ideology
10 The Horn of Africa: security on the western flank
11 India and Pakistan: shifting tides of interaction and dependency
12 Japan and the Republic of Korea: institutionalizing ties amid strategic uncertainty
13 Indonesia and Malaysia: trans-nationalism and Islamic leadership
Conclusion
Index