Between Sand and Scripture: How the UAE Weaves Faith into Diplomacy
Research Poster Social & Behavioral Sciences 2025 Graduate ExhibitionPresentation by Mothawi Ballaith
Exhibition Number 194
Abstract
This research examines the UAE’s role in shaping Middle Eastern diplomacy through the Abraham Accords, which normalized relations between the UAE and Israel in 2020.With an emphasis on geopolitical strategy, economic objectives, and religious diplomacy, the paper investigates the UAE's intentions. The study demonstrates how the UAE use religious tolerance as a diplomatic instrument by examining initiatives like the Abrahamic Family House and the Ministry of Tolerance. The study evaluates the UAE's decision-making process using official declarations, diplomatic correspondence, and academic assessments. According to the findings, the UAE's actions were motivated by a strategic attempt to foster interfaith dialogue as well as economic and security concerns. While the accords have led to positive diplomatic and economic outcomes, the research notes ongoing skepticism in the region, particularly regarding the Palestinian cause. Though the long-term effects are still unknown, the Abraham Accords ultimately mark a change in Middle Eastern diplomacy by blending religious diplomacy with conventional political and economic tactics.
Importance
This research offers a fresh perspective on how the UAE played a crucial part in bringing the Abraham Accords to life, which changed Middle Eastern diplomacy. By normalizing relations with Israel, the United Arab Emirates has broken down political barriers and paved the way for peace in a historically unstable area. By blending faith with foreign policy, the UAE has used religious tolerance as an effective diplomatic tool to create bridges where there was previously separation. According to the findings, the UAE is a prime example of how smaller states can have a big impact on international affairs. This study also challenges traditional notions of diplomacy, presenting religious cooperation as a potential solution to longstanding geopolitical conflicts.
DEI Statement
With an emphasis on the UAE's role in fostering religious tolerance, this study examines the Abraham Accords as a pivotal point in Middle Eastern diplomacy. The study tackles concerns of religious diversity, interfaith communication, and political inclusion in a historically divided region by looking at how the UAE uses faith to heal divisions between Israel and Arab countries. By providing insights on how religion might be used as a tool for inclusive diplomacy, promoting collaboration across many groups to create a more equitable global future, this study adds to the larger conversation on social inclusion, diversity, and peacebuilding.