UAE and Qatar Restore Diplomatic Ties and Reopen Embassies

Collected by: Mana Honar Pisheh

The UAE and Saudi Arabia restore diplomatic ties with Qatar, ending a boycott that had been in place since 2017. Bahrain and Egypt also joined in ending the boycott. The decision was announced at the 41st Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) summit held in Al-Ula, Saudi Arabia in January 2021. The statement from the UAE’s foreign ministry emphasizes that the decision was taken in the spirit of strengthening Arab unity and achieving the aspirations of the people of the region.

What are the implications of the restoration of diplomatic ties for the GCC and the wider Middle East region?

The restoration of diplomatic ties between the UAE and Qatar has significant implications for the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) and the wider Middle East region.

Firstly, it marks a significant step towards resolving the political and economic crisis that had engulfed the GCC since 2017. The boycott of Qatar by the UAE, Saudi Arabia, Bahrain, and Egypt had created a rift within the GCC and threatened the unity and stability of the region. The restoration of diplomatic ties between the UAE and Qatar, in particular, could pave the way for the other countries to follow suit and restore their own relations with Qatar.

Secondly, the move could have positive implications for regional security. The GCC countries have traditionally worked together to address common security challenges, such as terrorism and Iran’s regional activities. Restoring diplomatic ties and cooperation between the GCC countries could strengthen their ability to address these challenges and enhance regional stability.

Thirdly, the restoration of diplomatic ties could have economic implications. Qatar is a major producer of liquefied natural gas (LNG) and the restoration of trade and investment links with the UAE and other GCC countries could have a positive impact on the region’s economy.

Overall, the restoration of diplomatic ties between the UAE and Qatar is a positive development for the GCC and the wider Middle East region. It could help to defuse tensions, strengthen regional cooperation, and enhance stability and prosperity.