On May 25, 2023, the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) celebrated its 44th anniversary in Abu Dhabi, the capital of the United Arab Emirates and the birthplace of the council.

Established in 1981, the GCC emerged as a regional entity aimed at fostering coordination, integration, and cooperation among its six member states: Saudi Arabia, the UAE, Qatar, Kuwait, Oman, and Bahrain.

The formation of the GCC underscored the recognition among Gulf leaders of their shared religious, historical, and cultural ties and a collective commitment to achieving unity in the face of regional challenges.

The council has since evolved into a significant player in the geopolitical landscape of the Middle East, reflecting the aspirations for enhanced collaboration and sustainability.

Over its 44-year history, the GCC has achieved substantial milestones, including the establishment of a common market and customs union.

Key initiatives have included electricity interconnectivity projects and coordinated defense and petroleum strategies, fostering both economic and strategic synergies among member states.

In 2023, intra-GCC trade surpassed $131 billion, while total foreign trade reached approximately $1.5 trillion, highlighting the GCC's role as a vital economic bloc on the global stage.

Member states collectively hold around $4.4 trillion in sovereign wealth fund assets, enhancing their influence in international economic affairs.

As the council marks this significant milestone, it reflects on its pivotal role in ensuring regional stability, security, and prosperity for its citizens.

The anniversary comes at a time when initiatives are underway to transition from a phase of cooperation to one of deeper integration, indicating the GCC's commitment to evolving in line with the ambitions of its member states.

The journey of the GCC, originating from Abu Dhabi, represents a narrative of regional collaboration, offering a model for constructive integration that may inspire future generations in the region and beyond.