ABSTRACT
This chapter explains the journey of British engagement with this strategic region: starting from the roots of British hegemony, it examines how the power balance has evolved throughout the twenty-first century. The chapter discusses to what extent, for what reasons and with which implications the tables have been turned in the context of United Kingdom (UK)—Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) relations. Amid flourishing UK—GCC relations, in December 2010 the Arab Spring erupted. While Qatar saw this as a once-in-a-generation opportunity to increase its influence in the region and support the revolutions, all other Gulf monarchies greeted the upheavals with deep and abiding trepidation. The post-summit joint statement addresses the Syrian and Yemeni issue, with the UK firmly standing behind positions long held in the GCC, and announced a UK—GCC shared intent to deter Iran's predatory behaviour in the region. The UK remained a significant trading partner for the Gulf monarchies, and it was particularly involved in military sectors.
