While the Australian Defence Force has had elements deployed in the Arabian Gulf nearly continuously since 1991 and the magnitude and scope of Australia's economic interests in the Gulf are increasing every year, Australia lacks a coherent foreign and security policy for the region.

Australian policy-makers should view the Arabian Gulf as an area of priority strategic interest distinct from the wider Middle East. Given our ongoing interest in the region and limited resources to influence outcomes, the government should identify a key regional partner with whom to develop a strategic partnership. The most suitable candidate would be the United Arab Emirates.