Master thesis entitled: The Impact of Oil on the Emergence of Regional Conflict in the Arabian Gulf Region "The Buraimi Oasis as a model" During the period (1946-1974)
The study aimed to investigate the impact of oil on the emergence of regional conflicts in the Arabian Gulf, taking the Buraimi Oasis as a case study during the period from 1946 to 1974. It sought to highlight the geographical and economic significance of the oasis, analyze its demographic composition, and trace the manifestations of British intervention along the coast of Oman and its connection to the Buraimi dispute. The study also aimed to examine the evolution of the crisis, beginning with the initial disagreement between Saudi Arabia and Britain, passing through Saudi claims and international arbitration efforts, and culminating in the diplomatic initiatives that led to the 1974 border settlement agreement.
Within this context, the study addressed a number of key agreements and negotiations, including the 1920 Seeb Agreement signed between Sultan Taimur bin Faisal and Imam Mohammed bin Abdullah Al-Khalili under British auspices; the 1952 Dammam talks between Prince Faisal and Sir Robert, representing Qatar and Abu Dhabi; the 1952 Standstill Agreement between Saudi Arabia and Britain; the 1954 Arbitration Agreement; and the 1974 Jeddah Treaty concluded with Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan.
To achieve its objectives, the study relied on a range of primary sources, including documents from the British National Archives, the Arabian Gulf archives, and the Qatar National Library. This approach contributed to developing a comprehensive analytical understanding of the nature and dimensions of the conflict during the period 1946–1974, particularly in light of expectations surrounding oil discoveries and the intensification of international competition in the Arabian Gulf region.
