Pitching Abraham's tent: The human dimension of UAE-Israeli normalization

In the past year, many have written on the normalization of relations between Israel and Arab states, focusing on economic interests and emphasizing shared security interests in the region. Case studies, however, indicate that relations between countries are improved when they encompass aspects rela...

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Bibliographic Details
Published in:Policy File 2021
Main Authors: Guzansky, Yoel, Lipner, Shalom, Ferziger, Jonathan H, Feuer, Sarah, Fadlon, Tomer, Heistein, Ari, Al Ketbi, Ebtesam, Al Breiki, Noura
Format: Report
Language:English
Subjects:
Atlantic Council
Online Access:Request full text
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Summary:In the past year, many have written on the normalization of relations between Israel and Arab states, focusing on economic interests and emphasizing shared security interests in the region. Case studies, however, indicate that relations between countries are improved when they encompass aspects related to the lives of citizens. Incorporating an element of cultural affinity between countries, a dimension that is far less susceptible to abrupt transformation, can serve as a means to stabilize bilateral relations in the face of unforeseen challenges, shifts in regional dynamics, or changes in leadership. This paper examines three powerful drivers to bolster people-to-people connections: religious dialogue, sports, and higher education and research. These elements of soft power play an important role in the national life of both Israel and the UAE, holding the potential to improve relations between the two countries and their peoples. This report also addresses the obstaclespoliticalbuilding and maintaining people-to-people relations, as well as the pivotal role of American leadership in ensuring the success of the process.