The transformation of Arabia and the Gulf States from traditional societies to modern states has been one of the most remarkable developments of the twentieth century. In the space of just a few decades many of these countries have gone from being among the least developed countries of the world to the most developed. Unlike other transformations around the world, the rapid economic development of this region and its rise to key international importance are changes that have been paralleled by remarkable continuity in political institutions, social organisation and religious beliefs. This book, first published in 1986, presents a wide-ranging overview of the transformation of the region. It begins by surveying traditional society and goes on to consider the changes in all the countries of the region. Throughout, it examines the full range of economic, social, political and cultural affairs. The book concludes by surveying the role of oil through the twin filters of literature and economics, and the legal position of women in the UAE.