THE ROLE OF RELIGIOUS FACTOR IN THE FOREIGN POLICY OF ARAB STATES

Annotatsiya

This paper examines the central role of religion in shaping the foreign policies of Arab states, emphasizing its function as a source of political legitimacy, national identity, and soft power. In the political contexts of the Middle East and North Africa, religion transcends the sphere of personal belief and becomes an integral part of state authority and international behavior. The study analyzes how various Arab governments—particularly Saudi Arabia, Qatar, Egypt, and the United Arab Emirates—incorporate religious narratives and institutions into their diplomatic strategies. While Saudi Arabia employs religion as a historical pillar of state ideology and geopolitical influence, Qatar leverages religious networks and media platforms as tools of soft power. Egypt, on the other hand, relies on the authoritative role of Al-Azhar to project an image of moderation, whereas the UAE utilizes interfaith initiatives to construct a reputation of tolerance and modernity. The paper also highlights how sectarian rivalries, especially the Sunni–Shia divide, shape regional security dynamics, aggravating conflicts and hindering the formation of collective mechanisms of stability. Furthermore, it explores the significance of religious discourse in international organizations such as the Organization of Islamic Cooperation and the Arab League. Overall, the study demonstrates that religion remains a multidimensional and dynamic force within Arab foreign policy—simultaneously fostering cooperation, intensifying geopolitical competition, and reinforcing national legitimacy