The intersection of sports and politics is an age-old phenomenon, and it continues to be a prominent theme in contemporary society. This phenomenon is particularly pronounced in the continually evolving context of the Arab Gulf States. The nexus between sport and politics has proven to be a dynamic force capable of generating significant political, sociological, and economic outcomes. The hosting of the 'successful' Qatar World Cup 2022 stands as a prime example of how a sporting event can transcend the boundaries of the pitch and reshape the realities of a region. This talk delves into the intricate relationship between sport and politics in the Arab Gulf States, analyzing the multifaceted consequences of the Qatar World Cup on political dynamics, sociocultural norms, and economic landscapes.

Salma Thani, a Visiting Assistant Professor at the American University of Sharjah, is a Gulf Studies specialist. Her interdisciplinary approach covers a wide spectrum of research interests, including the history and contemporary socio-political dynamics of the Gulf States. Dr. Thani's work delves into the region's evolving global roles in politics and diplomacy. Her research extends to exploring how culture, history, politics, and foreign influences have shaped its socio-economic development, with a specific focus on the UAE. She has published widely in the fields of soft power, national identity, national branding, development, sport, tourism, and aviation in the United Arab Emirates.

This event is part of the CMENAS Fall Colloquium 2023: “The MENA world after a MENA World Cup” 555 Weiser Hall, 500 Church Street, Ann Arbor.

Colloquium questions: cmenas@umich.edu

This series is funded in part by the Center for Middle Eastern and North African Studies (CMENAS) U.S. Department of Education Title VI National Resource Center (NRC) grant.

To register, go to https://myumi.ch/8eA8n.