Publications

The UAE – (not) just another BRICS member?

Admission to BRICS strengthens the Emirates’ economic and foreign policy ambitions

Although the UAE seem like an unusual member of BRICS, the Emirates have embraced their admission to join the group in 2024. Being a BRICS-member furthers Abu Dhabi’s agenda to become an economic hub and is part and parcel of its diversified foreign relations. For Europe this should be a wake-up call.

German Arab Gulf Dialogue on Security and Cooperation in Berlin

Dialogue even in times of crisis

Amid the conflict between Israel and Iran, leading representatives from the Gulf states and Germany gathered for the 7th German-Arab Gulf Dialogue organised by the KAS and DAFG. Although the conference focused on overcoming current challenges in the Middle East and Europe, it also highlighted opportunities and potential for closer cooperation: Especially in times of crisis, stronger cooperation between Germany and the Gulf states is necessary.

US-Iran Talks at a Crossroads

Tehran’s Red Lines, Trumpian Maximum Pressure, and Regime Survival

Negotiations between the Islamic Republic of Iran and the United States have reached a turning point. While Washington's position is continuously evolving, the regime in Teheran is hardly willing to make meaningful concessions. Shortly before the next round of talks, a resolution remains elusive.

Chequebooks and Flattery

Lessons for Europe from Trump’s Gulf Visit

President Trump's visit to the Gulf States illustrated how close his personal ties are to its rulers. Beyond trillion-dollar deals, the trip showcased how the Gulf is leveraging its privileged access to advance its interest in Washington – something that Europe might have to take note of.

Gulf-Asia Cooperation

Prospects, Challenges, and Implications for Europe

This publication explores the deepening ties between the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) and key Asian powers—China, India, Japan, and South Korea—and their implications for Europe. While energy remains central, cooperation is expanding into technology, infrastructure, and diplomacy. As Asia becomes the Gulf’s primary partner, Europe risks being sidelined unless it engages more strategically. This publication calls for greater EU-GCC-Asia trilateral cooperation to address shared challenges and seize emerging opportunities.

Forging Stronger Ties between Germany and Qatar

Insights from Norbert Lammert’s and Gerhard Wahlers’ visit to Qatar underscores shared priorities in diplomacy, development, and culture.

A View from South Asia Countries of Origin: Changing Contexts, Perceptions, & Policies

Special Issue on Vision 2030 and the Socio-Economic Reform Process: The Future of Labour and Migration in Saudi Arabia

With 75 percent of its workforce comprising foreign labour, Saudi Arabia faces increasing competition for its essential migrant workforce as other countries offer better conditions. Saudi Arabia must reform restrictive policies including the kafala system, improve recruitment practices, and lower remittance costs to maintain its labour advantage. This policy report examines how current migration systems impact South Asian workers and offers practical solutions to balance national economic interests with worker protections in an increasingly competitive global labour market.

International Science Faculty in Saudi Arabia: Research Experiences and Challenges

Special Issue on Vision 2030 and the Socio-Economic Reform Process: The Future of Labour and Migration in Saudi Arabia

One of Saudi Arabia's aims in Vision 2030, is to transform the Kingdom into a global research powerhouse however, is the current ecosystem equipped to deliever? This policy report analyses Saudi scientific publications and interviews with international researchers which reveal a divide between elite academic institutions and the broader university landscape in Saudi. While visibility is growing, challenges in funding, infrastrucutre and career pathways persist. This report details the critical reforms needed to bridge the gap between Saudi Arabia's scientific ambitions and its current research reality.

The Global Competition for Talent: How does Saudi Arabia Compare with Gulf and Global Peers?

Special Issue on Vision 2030 and the Socio-Economic Reform Process: The Future of Labour and Migration in Saudi Arabia

Can Saudi Arabia outpace its neighbors in the race for global talent? Saudi Arabia has made remarkable strides in attracting skilled migrants while maintaining record employment for nationals—but significant hurdles remain. This policy report examines Saudi Arabia's position in the competitive talent marketplace and offers actionable recommendations to overcome persistent challenges in residency policies, urban liveability, and family support services that currently limit its appeal compared to regional rivals.

Adapting to Change: The Potential Impact of Technology and Demography on the Saudi Labour Market

Special Issue on Vision 2030 and the Socio-Economic Reform Process: The Future of Labour and Migration in Saudi Arabia

Will tomorrow's technological revolution leave parts of Saudi Arabia's workforce behind? This policy report reveals a complex picture of automation vulnerability across the Saudi Arabian labour market, highlighting significant differences between Saudi and non-Saudi workers, as well as between men and women. While government policies have successfully boosted citizen employment, the focus on labour-intensive sectors may have come at the cost of technological productivity. As the demand for specialised skills in IT, engineering, and advanced manufacturing grows, how can Saudi Arabia protect its most vulnerable workers while preparing its workforce for a tech-driven future? This report explores the challenges and opportunities ahead and examines potential solutions from global success stories.