China does not need to replace the US in the Gulf
It can gain leverage over the region without engaging in military overreach.
China’s diplomatic calendar this year reflects its growing international weight. A succession of prominent leaders has travelled to Beijing, including those from the United States, Russia, the United Kingdom, Canada, Spain, South Korea, Pakistan and Jordan.
The recent visit by Qatar’s Prime Minister Sheikh Mohammed bin Abdulrahman bin Jassim Al Thani to China, as well as visits by high-level officials from the United Arab Emirates and Saudi Arabia earlier this year, confirm Beijing’s expanding role in the Gulf.
The region, which has traditionally aligned with the US, is seeing growing competition between the two powers. But this rivalry does not mean that China is seeking to replace the US. It is approaching the region through trade and technology – something that fits into the Gulf’s own economic and development interests.
For the Gulf states, there is no contradiction in seeking strong ties with both powers. Saudi Arabia, the UAE, and Qatar each want US security cooperation and advanced Western technology while also seeking Chinese markets, manufacturing capacity, investment, and access to Asian economic networks.