The Emirates Occasional Papers is is an interdisciplinary series consisting of original studies, discussions and academic analyses on issues of strategic importance to the United Arab Emirates, the Arabian Gulf states and the Middle East, in the political, economic, social and energy domains. In order to ensure the reliability of content, credibility of sources and integrity of analysis, the manuscripts submitted to the EOP series undergo a strict review process by three expert referees. The series is also supported by an international advisory board that includes a select group of specialists, academics and researchers.