Aims: This study aims to elucidate the geographical and strategic importance of the United Arab Emirates (UAE) by analyzing the influence of its geographic location on the development of its regional and international stature. It further seeks to clarify the role of natural resources, particularly oil and gas wealth, in underpinning its economic power. A central objective is to highlight the strategic significance of the UAE's position on the Arabian Gulf and its proximity to the Strait of Hormuz, examining the implications of this geography for its political, economic, and security roles. Methods: The study adopts a descriptive-analytical approach, systematically analyzing the geographical and locational characteristics of the UAE and correlating them with key economic and strategic variables. A geopolitical framework is also employed to interpret how locational factors have shaped the country's regional and international role, drawing upon a review of relevant geographical and political literature. Results: The findings demonstrate that the UAE's geostrategic location, combined with its economic strength derived from oil and gas resources, constitutes a fundamental pillar of its enhanced regional and international standing. Its position on the waters of the Arabian Gulf, its proximity to the critical chokepoint of the Strait of Hormuz, and its shared borders with Saudi Arabia, Qatar, and Oman have all contributed to consolidating its geopolitical role. These factors have positioned the UAE as a key actor in regional security, energy markets, and trade networks. Conclusions: The study has demonstrated that the United Arab Emirates' ascendance as a significant regional and international actor is inextricably linked to its unique geographical and strategic positioning. The findings confirm that its location on the Arabian Gulf and its proximity to the Strait of Hormuz are not merely geographical facts but fundamental components of its national power. This location, combined with its substantial oil and gas reserves, has provided the foundation for its economic strength and geopolitical influence. The study has also shown that the UAE's borders with key regional players and its control over vital maritime spaces have made it an indispensable participant in the security architecture and economic dynamics of the Middle East. Its role in global energy markets and regional trade is a direct consequence of these geographical givens, amplified by strategic policy choices. Ultimately, the UAE's case exemplifies how a state's geographical endowment, when coupled with effective resource management and a clear strategic vision, can be translated into enduring political and economic power on the world stage.
Zaal et al. (2026) studied this question.