Kuwait, Bahrain, Qatar, and the United Arab Emirates

CIA map of the Gulf States during an intensely transformative period.

This political map of the Persian Gulf was published by the U.S. Central Intelligence Agency in 1970. Emphasis is on Kuwait, Qatar, Bahrain, and the United Arab Emirates – each a sovereign nation with key oil reserves and production facilities (outlined in an inset in the lower right). Roads, trails, airfields, and ports are identified according to the legend in the lower left. The political situation is briefly outlined in a second inset, noting historical boundaries and disputed areas. The upper right corner contains a population density chart and a comparative map showing the size of the region to the Midwest.

By 1972, the Gulf states of Bahrain, Qatar, and the newly formed United Arab Emirates emerged as fully independent nations after Britain ended its protectorate responsibilities east of Suez. These states, along with already-independent Kuwait, began rapidly expanding their governmental institutions and diplomatic identities in a shifting regional environment, fueled by surging oil revenues and foreign influence. The United States had clear strategic interests and hoped to build partnerships that would help control global energy supply and influence the Cold War.