International Relations & DiplomacyMiddle East & North AfricaPolicy Outlook

The UAE in Libya: Continuity and Change

Written by: Ferhat Polat

This policy outlook explores some of the key elements driving the UAE’s policy in Libya as well as the Gulf country’s approach towards the upcoming Libyan elections.

Over the last ten years, regional and international powers have tried to fill the vacuum created in Libya. In this regard, Abu Dhabi has for years intervened in the Libyan conflict. Its policy towards Libya is driven by diverse interests, ranging from economic considerations to ideological objectives and the fight against political Islam. This policy outlook explores some of the key elements driving the UAE’s policy in Libya as well as the Gulf country’s approach towards the upcoming elections in the North African country.

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Ferhat Polat
Ferhat Polat
Ferhat Polat is a Chevening Scholar from the 2022 cohort and a researcher at the TRT World Research Centre. Holding an MA in Middle East Studies from the Institute of Arab and Islamic Studies at the University of Exeter, he specializes in North African geopolitics and security, with a particular focus on Libya. Polat is often invited as a commentator on news channels and has contributed numerous essays and articles on geopolitical issues that have been published in various journals, newspapers, and digital outlets.

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