Kristin Smith Diwan is a senior resident scholar at the Arab Gulf States Institute. Her current projects concern generational change, nationalism, and the evolution of Islamism in the countries of the Gulf Cooperation Council. Her analysis of Gulf affairs has appeared in many publications, among them Foreign Affairs, Financial Times, and The Washington Post.
Diwan was previously an assistant professor at the American University School of International Service and has held visiting scholar positions at the George Washington University and Georgetown University. From 2013-14 she served as a visiting senior fellow at the Atlantic Council where she published on youth movements and participated in the Strategic Dialogue for a New US-Gulf Partnership.
Diwan received her PhD from Harvard University and holds an MA from the Johns Hopkins School of Advanced International Studies. She completed her undergraduate degree at Baylor University in Texas, her home state.
Analysis
Trump’s Inauguration and America’s Nationalist Realignment
Underlying dynamics in U.S. society and the global political economy suggest Trump’s new nationalist coalition may endure with implications for Gulf partners.
Assad’s Fall Prompts Initial Gulf Unity but Differences and Concerns Are Emerging
Gulf states met the Syrian regime’s fall with unity and pragmatism. But already differences are emerging in response to the political transition and the possibility of chaos, extremism, and a feeble state unable to preserve its territorial integrity.
Saudi Arabia on Global Stage for 2034 World Cup
Hosting the World Cup will be a huge opportunity for Saudi Arabia, supporting Vision 2030 reforms. While preparations for the tournament will be costly, they will boost economic growth and could spur further social change.
Gulf Popular Interest in U.S. Elections Is Not What It Used To Be
Anger and disillusionment over the Gaza war and rising confidence in their own national direction means Gulf publics are not as invested in U.S. political outcomes.
Saudi National Day Evolves
Saudi Arabia's 94th National Day reflected a new seriousness in the kingdom, alongside the celebrations.
Jun 12, 2024
With New Crown Prince Kuwait Bucks Gulf Succession Trends
The emir’s naming of Sabah al-Khaled al-Sabah – a noncontroversial politician and an experienced diplomat – as crown prince may help traverse Kuwait’s fissures, but there is still a long road ahead.
Events
Exploring Oman’s History, Culture, and Cuisine: A Conversation With Chef Dina Macki
In her latest book, Bahari, meaning “ocean” in Swahili, chef Dina Macki embarks on a culinary exploration of the rich flavors and history of Omani cuisine, a food culture shaped by boundless coastlines and complex maritime history, with origins and influences spanning Pakistan, Iran, India, the Swahili coast, and Portugal. An Omani Zanzibari chef who...
Speakers
Jan 23, 2025
Outlook 2025: What Will the New Year Bring for the Gulf Region and U.S.-Gulf Relations?
On January 23, AGSIW hosted a discussion on what regional trends they’ll be following most closely as the year unfolds.
Speakers
Jan 8, 2025
Book Talk: The Economy of Saudi Arabia in the 21st Century: Prospects and Realities
On January 8, AGSIW hosted a discussion on Saudi Arabia's efforts to transform its economy.
Speakers
Dec 10, 2024
How Will Gulf Partners Seek to Manage Relations With Trump 2.0?
On December 10, AGSIW hosted a discussion on the future U.S.-Gulf relations under the incoming Trump administration.
Speakers
Dec 3, 2024
Book Talk: The Development of An Art History in the UAE
On December 3, AGSIW hosted a discussion on contemporary art in the United Arab Emirates.
Speakers
Oct 18, 2024
Book Talk: Gulf Women’s Lives: Voice, Space, Place
On October 18, AGSIW hosted a discussion on the lives of Gulf women, exploring how Gulf women negotiate spaces through their writing and focusing on women’s narratives.
Speakers
