Gulfregionen

The Gulfregionen is a geographic and economic area surrounding the Persian Gulf in Western Asia. In Swedish usage it typically refers to the Gulf Cooperation Council states Bahrain, Kuwait, Oman, Qatar, Saudi Arabia and the United Arab Emirates. The term is sometimes extended to include Iran and Iraq due to their coastline on the gulf.

The region is arid and coastal, with some of the world’s largest oil and natural gas reserves. Oil and gas production dominate national economies, making the Gulf states among the leading energy exporters. The Strait of Hormuz, a crucial maritime chokepoint, links the gulf to global energy markets.

Economies are undergoing diversification programs to reduce oil dependence. Initiatives include Saudi Vision 2030 and similar plans in the UAE and Qatar. Large urban centers such as Dubai, Abu Dhabi, Doha, Riyadh and Kuwait City act as regional hubs. The labor force relies heavily on migrant workers from across Asia and beyond, shaping social and cultural life.

Polities range from absolute to constitutional monarchies within the GCC, with varying degrees of reform. The region features geopolitical competition and security concerns, including tensions with Iran and involvement in regional conflicts, alongside partnerships with outside powers. Environmental challenges include water scarcity and high temperatures, leading to widespread desalination and sustainable-energy investments.