The Political Economy of Green Energy in the Arab Gulf States amid Current Economic and Political Transformations: Saudi Arabia and the United Arab Emirates as a Model

Abstract

This study assesses the strategic and material dimensions of the accelerated shift towards clean energy in Saudi Arabia and the UAE, in the face of fundamental transformations in the international energy system. The study begins with the premise of "strategic competition" to examine whether this shift is merely economic diversification and a means of achieving regional dominance and consolidating geopolitical influence.

The research adopted a comparative approach between “Saudi Vision 2030” and “UAE Energy Strategy 2050”, with a brief look at some experiences of one of the Gulf Cooperation Council countries such as Oman and Qatar to raise the level of actual awareness. The research also employed a dual approach that combines descriptive analysis of policies and numerical analysis of energy data, to discuss the debate between old oil interests and global climate eras, and the impact of this on strategic blocs east and west.

The findings concluded that the transition to clean energy constitutes a national "safeguard" and a structural adaptation necessitated by the risk of aging oil reserves, while leveraging the competitive advantage of renewable energy production costs. This study contributes to a complex understanding of the Gulf states' reorientation to become key players in the global post-oil political economy, bolstering their competitiveness in a sustainable hydrogen economy that ensures their continued international influence.