United Arab Emirates

With the Muslim Brotherhood movement in seemingly chronic decline, the "bully" and the "upstart" find new avenues of cooperation.

This report is based on the presentations and discussions during the UAE Security Forum 2021, “U.S.-Gulf Relations in a Changing Region,” held December 7-9, 2021 virtually.

The UAE and Qatar both want the F-35, but, for the United States, selling the powerful fighter jet is not a straightforward commercial transaction.

The recent thaw in relations seems to be a positive step for these former regional adversaries toward deepening ties, but unresolved political conflicts may continue to fester.

Houthi missile attacks on the UAE and U.S. military facilities expose a fragile Middle East calm.

Over the year, there were some small steps forward on Yemen. But as diplomatic efforts continue in 2022, there will still be no quick fix to end the war.

As the pace of reforms quicken in the UAE, Sharjah is differentiating itself through its conservatism and independent voice.

France has sought to calm recent tensions, but the increasing influence of Hezbollah and the shifting focus of Saudi and UAE economic policies elsewhere raises questions of where Lebanon will be able to turn for support.