The impact of knowledge, trade, and communications on the implementation of the regional foreign policy of the United Arab Emirates

The study addresses the issue that the United Arab Emirates (UAE), as a small country, is often perceived in a condescending manner with respect to its regional foreign policy. The UAE faces resistance from several regional countries due to its controversial position in both international and regional policies. This study aims to examine the influence of knowledge, trade, and communication on the UAE's regional foreign policy. It adopts a dual-theoretical framework, drawing upon Conflict Theory and Foreign Policy Theory, to support the analysis of how these variables shape the UAE's regional foreign engagements. A structured questionnaire was developed based on previous studies and subsequently adapted to suit the specific context of this research. The research population consists of personnel from the UAE’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Emirati diplomatic mission abroad, as these institutions are most directly and exclusively connected to the subject of the study. A total of 400 questionnaires were distributed among employees in the Ministry and across various UAE embassies and consulates around the world. Of these, 357 valid responses were received and analysed using SPSS version 25. The results reveal that the UAE strategically uses knowledge, trade, and communication as interconnected pillars of its regional foreign policy. Through sustained investments in education and research, the UAE has strengthened its position as a regional leader, with educational exchange programs fostering stronger alliances. Moreover, the UAE utilised its economic strength as a diplomatic tool through targeted partnerships. Communication strategies also play a pivotal role in advancing the state's foreign policy outreach, international image, and soft power capabilities. The study concludes by also highlighting the implications of the research findings and offering recommendations for future research.