Kuwait and Al-Sabah: Tribal Politics and Power in an Oil State

The discovery of oil in 1938 transformed Kuwait from a tiny tribal sheikhdom into a modern oil-producing state, but the pre-oil dynamics of social and political life dictate how society operates, and the Al-Sabah regime's ambitious diversification plans require a renegotiation of the pact with society, threatening the pre-oil alliances upon which it has been built.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 280 pages
Publication date: 26 January 2023
Publisher: Bloomsbury Publishing PLC

The Emirate of Kuwait has undergone a remarkable transformation since the beginning of the 20th century. The discovery of oil in 1938 sparked a rapid transformation, transforming the small tribal sheikhdom of the Al-Sabah into a modern oil-producing state. By the early 1980s, citizens were enjoying one of the highest standards of living in the world. While much has been written about the reasons for and the process of the Al-Sabah becoming a ruling dynasty, there is limited knowledge about the nature of their authority and its relationship to Kuwait's social structure. Rivka Azoulay sheds light on this gap in knowledge by examining how, despite the rapid changes brought about by oil wealth, the pre-oil dynamics of social and political life continue to shape society in Kuwait.

The author argues that Kuwait's ambitious diversification plans to reduce its dependence on oil by 2035 require a renegotiation of the regime's pact with society. This renegotiation threatens the pre-oil alliances upon which the Al-Sabah regime has been built. Azoulay delves into the complex web of social and political relationships that have evolved in Kuwait over the years, highlighting the role of the family, tribe, and religion in shaping the country's political landscape. She also examines the impact of oil wealth on social and economic inequality, as well as the challenges faced by the government in managing the country's resources and maintaining social stability.

In conclusion, Azoulay's book provides a valuable insight into the complex dynamics of social and political life in Kuwait, shedding light on the challenges and opportunities facing the country as it seeks to navigate the transition from an oil-based economy to a more diversified one. The book is a must-read for anyone interested in understanding the history, culture, and politics of Kuwait, as well as the broader region of the Middle East.

Dimension: 234 x 156 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9780755650989