History of the Arabian Gulf: The Al-Qasimi Dynasty

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Introduction

The United Arab Emirates is one of the fast-growing nations with multiple opportunities for becoming one of the leaders of the international discourse. The important strategic location, along with the rich mineral resources, including oil, are viewed as the basis for further evolution and growth. The state consists of seven emirates headed by sheikhs representing various dynasties. Thus, the emirate of Sharjah and Ras Al Khaimah are ruled by the representatives of the Al Qasismi. The history of the given family can be traced back to ancient times and characterized by severe oppositions with invaders and a significant impact on the development of these lands, their transformation, and growing international power. For this reason, the given paper focuses on the investigation of the Arabian dynasty of Al-Qawasim, their growth, and transformation into the rulers of a powerful country as the way to trace the evolution of the UAE.

Overview of the History and Rise of the Qassimi Tribe

The history of the area is rich for various events because of its strategic importance. In general, the region’s rise is often linked to multiple trade hubs existing on the shore (U.AE 2020). Navigating the Persian Gulf, the ancient sailors, traders, and explorers could rest in the land, which is now called Ras Al Khaimah (U.AE. 2020). The constant torrent of newcomers ensured the exchange of goods and the growing wealth of people living on these territories. In accordance with the current research, multiple local Bedouin tribes spent winters at the shore to guarantee sufficient food supply as fishing was a stable source of fresh products (Ghul et al. 2020). The Qassimi tribe was among these local forces which benefited from the geographic location and available resources (Ghul et al. 2020). Employing these factors, the tribe managed to evolve and transform into the region’s most influential forces.

Traditionally, the history and rise of the Qassimi tribe are linked to the development of the region, and its becoming more significant from the strategic perspective. The intensification of trade was preconditioned by the entrance of Muslim empires on the land and the penetration of other traders from different regions (Fromherz 2020). The dynasty emphasizes its origin linked to the Prophet Muhammad, meaning that the years characterized by the fast rise of Islamic culture coincided with the evolution of the Qassimi Tribe (Fromherz 2020). The accumulation of resources, power, and lands in the hands of the clan’s rulers resulted in its transformation into a strong maritime power based in Ras Al Khaimah and controlling the Persian Gulf’s shore (Fromherz 2020). Officially, the dynasty was founded in 1722 by Sheikh Rahma bin Matar Al-Qasimi who possessed control over vast territories and trade routes (Britannica 2018). It resulted in serious changes in the socio-cultural and political landscapes of the region.

Literature Review

The majority of authors focused on the issue agree that the emergence of the Al-Qawasim clan was preconditioned by the successful combination of cultural, political, and social factors. As stated before, the area had enormous strategic importance in the Middle Eastern region. Ras Al Khaimah continued its rise as a vital trade center with the constantly growing number of merchants using local ports (U.AE 2020). The ability to control the trade in the Persian Gulf area was one of the core factors preconditioning the rise of the Al-Qawasim dynasty as it provided rulers with the money and influence needed to support their desires and goals. At the same time, the social conditions were also beneficial for the fast growth of the clan as there was a certain vacuum of power (Sonbol 2020). Under these conditions, possessing areas vital for trade, Al-Qawasim managed to evolve.

From the cultural perspective, the rise of Al-Qawasim from 1500 Ad to the present time can be linked to the empowering of Islam and its becoming the national religion for most people living in the area. For this reason, the growth of the clan with the same beliefs met the requirements of the local population and the major cultural trend. It also helped the dynasty to transform into one of the leading forces struggling with European invaders who started to appear here in the 16th century (Al-Otabi 1989). First, the Portuguese tried to expand their empire and occupy strategically important areas (Al-Otabi 1989). However, the attempts failed due to the resistance of local tribes, including Al-Qawasim (U.AE 2020). After the British entrance into the Middle East, the role of the dynasty reduced because of the damage caused to their fleet and local forces; however, they managed to survive and remain a potent force in the region.

The British interference resulted in a serious alteration in the balance of power; however, the Al-Qawasim dynasty managed to preserve its influence. For this reason, today, it remains the influential dynasty affecting the UAE and the global intercourse. Sharjah and Ras Al Khaimah remain the cities ruled by members of the Al Qasismi, while Sheikh Saqr bin Mohammad Al Qasimi proclaimed that his land would join the UAE and became the member of the new state (U.AE 2020). Another representative of the dynasty, Khalid bin Mohammed AL Qasimi, the head of Sharjah, also decided to join the UAE (U.AE 2020). In such a way, two prominent and influential emirates of the state are ruled by the dynasty members. Their impact on the international discourse and the countries of the Gulf cannot be overestimated. They affect the UAE’s policy because of their membership in the Federal Supreme Council responsible for strategic decisions and the future of the state.

The international impact of the Al-Qasimi dynasty also remains significant. Today, Sharjah and Ras Al Khaimah are popular tourist directions attracting millions of people every year (Al-Nakib 2020). It helps the emirates to generate additional income and acquire new resources for further rise. At the same time, the influx of tourists representing multiple countries helps to improve the international image of the cities and their rulers. The Al-Qasimi dynasty acquires new mechanisms of influence and a chance to engage in cooperation with other states. It also helps emirates to remain powerful actors and play one of the leading roles in the region.

Another aspect explaining the important role of the Qawasim dynasty in the UAE and region, in general, is its contribution to the development of the land during the European invasions and rule. As stated previously, the existing literature admits the significance of local tribes’ resistance regarding establishing a new model in the area (Al-Nakib 2020). Thus, the Portuguese refused to continue the expansion because of the high price of military interventions preconditioned by the activity of local forces, such as the Al-Qawasim clan (National Archives 2018b). The expansion of the Europeans into the Indian Ocean also resulted in the Dutch presence in the Middle East (National Archives 2018b). The Dutch sources mention the emergence of Al-Qasimi rule and contacts with them. For instance, Sheikh Rahma bin Matar was viewed as the Emir of Julfar (Ras Al Khaimah now) and the most influential Arab merchant and ruler (National Archives 2018b). It means that the Dutch accepted the rule of the dynasty and viewed them as potential partners, which resulted in their acknowledgment as an important force in the region.

Finally, during the British era, the clan’s influence was reduced because of the attack of naval forces from the Empire, which viewed the Gulf as an attractive region. However, the period of the British occupation was ended in 1820, and the British tried to protect the shipping routes in the Gulf, which provided the Ras Al Khaimah and Sharjah with an opportunity to grow. It became An important event in the life of the Middle Eastern region as due to the power of the dynasty, it saved the local formation and acquired the chance to have an independent policy. For this reason, the growth and transformation of the Al Qawasim clan became one of the important factors shaping the relations within the area and preconditioning its future development.

Methodology

Purpose

The central purpose of this project is the in-depth investigation of the history of the Al-Qawasim clan, its emergence, rise, and transformation into one of the powerful dynasties affecting the policy in the Middle East, the functioning of the UAE, and playing a specific role in the global intercourse. The investigation of the given aspect will also help to understand the region’s evolution under the impact of numerous external forces, such as the presence of the British, Dutch, Portuguese troops and their attempts to establish control over the land and benefit from its strategic importance. The research purpose of the paper is also justified by the fact that the Al-Qasimi remains one of the most ancient and influential families of the region, with much power concentrated in their hands. For this reason, the analysis of their history will help to realize the roots of the current situation and forecast its evolution.

This purpose also impacts the formulation of the following objectives vital for the improved analysis of the issue under concern:

To investigate the rise of the Al-Qawasim clan
To outline the social, cultural, and economic conditions promoting its rise
To discuss the current state of the family and its influence
To analyze the role the dynasty played in the late 18th century
The role of Al Qasimi as the political force
Conclude about the contribution of the dynasty to the emergence of the UAE

Justification of the Research Method

The choice of the research methods depends on the focus of the research, its purpose, and the expected outcomes. For this reason, considering the information mentioned in the previous section, using the qualitative research method seems the most advantageous paradigm for data collection and its further processing (Creswell and Poth 2017). Several factors can justify the choice and the necessity to use this mode of research. First of all, the nature of the study presupposes the analysis of existing sources linked to the history of the clan to find facts explaining its rise and transformation into a potent force. Under these conditions, the literature review is viewed as one of the practical approaches to collect data and structure it. It means that using this tool, it is possible to create the theoretical background for the research, outlining the current state of the question and major concerns associated with it (Creswell and Poth 2017). Moreover, using the literature review, it is possible to attain high credibility of findings, and their relevance as the choice of sources depends on an investigator.

Another factor justifying utilization of the qualitative research method is its ability to incorporate various sources, save costs, and attain the high credibility of findings. Using this research paradigm, an investigator can ensure that all aspects of the plan are covered and discussed. Qualitative methods are less dependent on numbers, meaning that there is no need for collecting statistical information to prove a particular idea or phenomenon.

Sources

Because of the need to ensure the high credibility of findings and avoid using false data, the study uses several types of secondary sources. First of all, journal articles are analyzed to find data needed to create the background for the research and outline the most important historical events shaping the Al Qawasim dynasty, its power, and role. Second, government reports related to the history of the UAE and its emirates can be reviewed. They provide credible and reliable information about the evolution of the area and the impact of various countries of local tribes and clans. Furthermore, academic articles and books are other types of sources that can use to analyze the topic and conclude about the role of the dynasty in the UAE.

Altogether, the central purpose of the offered project is to investigate the history of the Al Qawasim clan and dynasty, focusing on the events from the late 18th century. To achieve this goal, the qualitative research method is used. It helps to collect the needed information from a variety of credible sources, including books, journal articles, and reports. Adherence to the given paradigm will help to conduct the in-depth investigation of the selected issue and conclude about how the dynasty managed to evolve, its role in the region, and its current status. The choice of methods is justified by their relevance, ability to promote the desired outcome, and availability regarding the selected research question.

History of the Al Qawasim

The 18th century can be considered a complex period in the history of the UAE and the whole region. The fall of two powerful dynasties, Safavid in Iran and Yaariba in Oman, preconditioned the growth of anarchy and the vacuum of power (Britannica 2018). Numerous Arab communities wanted to preserve their commercial activities and acquire benefits from trading with partners from different regions. For this reason, they moved from inner areas and Oman to the coast and maintained trading routes and activities (Frain 2020). It resulted in the appearance of cities which transformed into modern states of the Gulf (U.AE 2020). These processes preconditioned significant changes in the political landscape of the area and the emergence of the three leading forces, such as Qawasim, the Bani Yas federations, and the Al Bu Said dynasty (U.AE 2020). These entities influenced the region and its further evolution.

Moreover, the work of the East India Company was also an important factor affecting the region. From the second half of the 18th century, it acquired multiple political functions, including the attempts to control strategic areas to protect sea routes and overseas territories of the British Empire (National Archives 2018a). The Gulf Region, as an important hub for traders and ships coming from the East to West, was also considered by the East India Company as a vital area that should be controlled. Thus, the 18th century is also characterized by the growing presence of the British Empire as its residencies were created in Bushire, Muscat, Basra, Baghdad, Bahrain, Kuwait, and Sharjah (National Archives 2018a). The growing desire of the Empire to control the territory formed the basis for the opposition with the local forces and clans.

Consequently, the Gulf was not a peaceful region starting from the 18th century. The absence of a single and powerful ruler preconditioned the growing opposition between local forces. The Qawasim wanted to end Oman’s dominance in the area and control the bigger part of the trade with African and Indian regions, as it would guarantee further rise and empowerment (National Archives 2018a). It created the basis for conflict between the Qawasim clan and the Al Bu Said rulers (National Archives 2018a). Moreover, the British Empire looked for allies to protect its trading routes and supported the ruler of Muscat and Persia’s Shah (National Archives 2018a). The Qawasim considered it a direct threat to their interests as the growth of other clans would mean their reduced ability to affect the region and control trade (Al-Otabi 1989). The conflict on the sea between the Qawasim ships and other forces resulted from the attempts to gain control over the region (Al-Otabi 1989). British Empire labeled the Al Qasimi as pirates as they threatened their traders, and the southern shore was called the Pirate Coast.

In such a way, the local clans had different interests and partners. Following the mistaken idea that the Qawasim were the central cause of lawlessness in the region and at sea, the British Empire supported other parties in the area and created military expeditions against the dynasty and all their allies (Al-Otabi 1989). As the main force resisting the Empire and its colonial armies, the Qawasim clan suffered multiple hardships and had numerous battles. On the one hand, it undermined the resources of the family and demanded significant effort to continue the struggle; however, it also helped to create a specific image of the region’s defender and attract new allies.

Cities and Territories

One of the factors explaining the power of the Qawasim clan and its ability to influence to life of the region is its control over strategically important territories. First of all, possessing Ras Al Khaimah, the family managed to improve its reputation as successful traders and attracted tribes of the area to create a powerful federation (Frain 2020). Because of the growing strength, the Qawasim did not have rivals in the area, and they also spread their influence to remote regions around their capital. The key factor was the ability to control ports on both dies of the Gulf, such as at Sharjah, Ras Al Khaimah, Lingah, Luft, Basidu (Al-Otabi 1989). It provided multiple opportunities to controlling the most important trade routes and possessing a strong fleet needed to support the maritime power of the dynasty (Al-Otabi 1989). Moreover, using the available cities on both sides of the southern Gulf, the Qawasim got the chance to struggle with other forces, including the British Empire, and hide in natural harbors.

The importance of these territories is evidenced by the fact that they provided the Al Qawasim dynasty with resources and power strong enough to spread its influence to other lands and struggle with Oman, one of the leading political entities in the Gulf at that period of time. Moreover, being called by the British as pirates, the clan managed to form a federation of tribes and head it. It also devoted much attention to developing the local infrastructure and supporting trade with Africa and India. For this reason, being owners of vital territories, the Al Qawasim managed to use them to increase their power.

Power Difference

As stated previously, there were no serious rivals for the Al Qawasim because of several factors. First of all, due to the peculiarities of historical development, the clan managed to suppress any attempts of other tribes to compete and challenge their leading position (Frain 2020). Moreover, using money and influence from controlling the trade routes, the Qawasim managed to form numerous alliances and create the federation, including all significant clans, which affected the policy of the Gulf (Al-Nakib 2020). The wise policy resulted in the accumulation of human and physical resources in one family’s hands and their use to create a competitive advantage and succeed in the future.

Another factor explaining the difference in power is the geographical location of the Qawasim possessions. Ras al Khaimah, the traditional capital of the clan, had always played a critical role in the life of the region. It was a trading hub and a place where merchants could rest and plant their further expansion. Moreover, due to the wise policy, creation of alliances with other tribes in the region, and spread of the influence, the Qawasim managed to get territories on both sides of the southern Gulf. It provided the dynasty and all cities under its control with an advantageous position as they were able to control all ships moving from Europe to Asia and Africa and enjoy benefits from it. For this reason, the geographical location and strategic decisions helped to shift the balance of power towards the dominance of the Qawasim clan.

Political and Social Conflicts

As stated previously, the period from the 18th century and later was characterized by instability and numerous conflicts. The attitude of the British Empire and its labeling Qawasim as pirates resulted in the attempts to secure the lands. In 1806, a Qulnamah was established between the British Empire and the Qawasim to bring stability to this area (Frain 2020). Both parties had to respect each other’s properties, subjects and cultivate peace (National Archives 2018a). It was the first sign of formal relations between the Empire and the region now known as the UAE. However, the number of attacks on ships in the Gulf remained high, and in 1809, Ras al Khaimah, Lingah, Luft, and many other bases on the coast were assaulted by the British Empire and its alliances in the region, such as Oman (National Archives 2018a). Attacks continued till in 1819 Ras al Khaimah was almost destroyed by the British forces (National Archives 2018a). Other ports and fortifications in such places as Fasht, Sharjah, Umm al Quwain, and Ajman were also eliminated (National Archives 2018a). It helped to suppress the resistance from the Qasimi and establish British dominance on the sea.

These political and military conflicts preconditioned the creation of the General Treaty of Peace. It involved rulers of the coastal cities and sheikhs who agreed to stop military actions at sea, were prohibited from building big ships and fortifications on the territory of the coast (National Archives 2018a). In such a way, the agreement of 1820 ended the era of independent policy and dominance of the Qawasim in the region and their attempts to spread their influence (National Archives 2018a). It established the formal relations between the Empire and coastal sheikhdoms who had to act under the supervision of Britain (National Archives 2018a). The Residents ad Native Agencies in Muscat, Sharjah, and Bahrain were used to control the land and ensure the absence of threats to the British dominance (National Archives 2018a). It also opened the way to the colonization of the area and the supremacy of the British policy.

Significance of the Qawasim after the British Colonization

The significance of the Qawasim before and after the British colonization cannot be depreciated. It was the main power of resistance from 1777 and united the local people in their attempts to protect the lands from the European invaders. The defeat after the naval expedition and destruction of the major coastal cities and their fortifications became a serious strike for the Qawasim and their dominance in the region (National Archives 2018a). They lost the ability to resist invaders, and their military power reduced; however, the General Treaty of Peace and the further creation of Trucial states under the British Protectorate provided new opportunities for the representatives of the Qawasim dynasty. Sharjah and Ras al Khaimah were still ruled by the family members who preserved their ability to influence the policy in their domains.

During the years of British colonization, the family remained a significant political force due to the concentration of wealth and power. The necessity to follow the course established by the Empire limited the sheikhs’ capabilities and their international efforts; however, the British rule guaranteed peace to the area and non-involvement in the international affairs (National Archives 2018a). It ensured that the Qawasim dynasty could support the rise of their emirates and create the basis for their future success (National Archives 2018a). Due to the concentration of local resources and levers of influence, the end of the British period provided the family with a chance to create their own independent states and form the UAE.

The Qassimis in Different Contexts

Investigating the history of the Qawasim clan, it is possible to admit the difference between the political contexts during different periods. Before the years of British dominance, the family was the dominant force in the region, with much power concentrated in its hands (National Archives 2018a). Moreover, the dynasty managed to spread its influence to numerous coastal areas and cities, controlling both sides of the Southern Gulf, which provided it with the opportunity to gain financial and military power, and struggle with the British Empire (Abbott 2020). Moreover, this political context was characterized by the freedom of strategic choices and interactions. However, with the defeat and the formation of Trucial States, the political context changed. The independence and resources of the Qawasim were limited as they had to act under the governance of the British Empire (Abbott 2020). Moreover, the areas under their control were reduced to Sharjah and Ras al Khaimah, which became the emirates controlled by the sheikhs from the dynasty (Abbott 2020). Under these conditions, their international attempts and global interactions were also limited.

However, because of the ability to execute the domestic policy and British non-involvement in internal affairs helped the family to survive and join a new era. After the collapse of the Trucial States, the Qawasim dynasty became rulers of two emirates with beneficial geographical location (Abbott 2020). Moreover, the formation of the UAE and Sharjah and Ras al Khaimah joining it provided the sheikhs from the dynasty with the chance to enter the global intercourse as powerful actors. The existing political context provides them with the options for further rise and development.

Political Practices of the Qawasim Dynasty

The success of the Qawasim dynasty is explained by the effective strategies and political practices used by the clan. During the first stages of the family’s rise, it wisely used the vacuum of power in the area, which emerged with the collapse of previous ruling dynasties and loss of control over the region. The wealth of the Qawasim generated due to the successful location on the shore of the Gulf was used to unite local tribes, ensure their loyalty, and create new trade hubs. Such policy helped to create the basis for the further rise and transformation of the dynasty into a potent political entity. Moreover, the formation of the federation with local tribes helped to control the Southern Gulf and control the trade in the region.

At the same time, with the change of the dominant power in the region, the political practices of the dynasty also altered. Correctly realizing the need to be more flexible and follow the new rules established by the British Empire, the Qawasim dynasty preserved control over their lands due to its loyalty and the ability to create conditions beneficial for their lands’ evolution (Ulrichsen 2016). Their policy also included the emphasis on the development of the region to ensure a stable future and the ability to support the functioning of the independent state in the future. In such a way, combining aggressive and loyal political practices, the clan managed to survive during hard times, acquire new allies, and evolve into one of the potent players in the region.

European Impact on the UAE

The history of the Qawasim dynasty shows that Europe had a strong influence on the Gulf region. The Dutch and Portuguese forces in the region preconditioned the development of trade relations between the European states, India, Africa (National Archives 2018b). The Gulf acquired the strategic importance and lands known as the UAE were provided with the stimuli for the future rise (National Archives 2018c). Furthermore, the entrance of the British Empire to the Middle East, its alliances with local states, and the Treaty became a significant step towards the establishment of the first formal relations with the European states. Moreover, it helped to outline the future relations between lands that were included in the UAE (National Archives 2018a). In such a way, the European impact on the UAE has always been significant. Today, it remains one of the strategical partners who cooperate with the nation in different directions.

Impact of the Qawasim Dynasty on the Rest of the Emirates and the Arabian Gulf

Today, the Al Qasimi remains a strong force in the Middle Eastern region. They control two emirates in the UAE and are members of the Council, meaning that their ability to influence decision-making is significant. Moreover, the strategic importance of cities under their control and wealth help to support the image of the dynasty, its long-term plans, and engage in new collaborations. Being one of the oldest ruling dynasties in the Arabian Gulf, the Al Qasimi also maintain relations with rulers of other nations residing in the region (Al-Nakib 2020). For this reason, it is possible to conclude that the dynasty managed to preserve its leading positions. Al Qasimi family has the reputation of the vital player with significant interests in the Middle Eastern region and globally, with the ability to affect local and international intercourse (Al-Nakib 2020). For this reason, other Emirates and states in the region accept the necessity of negotiating strategic decisions with before their further implementation.

Conclusion

Altogether, the reviewed literature demonstrates an outstanding role of the Qawasim tribe in the history of the UAE. They managed to evolve due to the correct use of the available resources and geographic location. The capital of the clan, Ras Al Khaimah, helped to control the trade routes and accumulate wealth. Entering in relations with other local tribes and forming alliances, the Qawasim clan became a dominant force with cities on both sides of the Southern Gulf. However, the confrontation with the British Empire resulted in the defeat and formation of the Trucial States. The Al Qasimi saved their central cities, such as Sharjah and Ras Al Khaimah and, continued their development. Today, the family is one of the most powerful players in the Gulf region, with the ability to impact both local and international relations.

Reference List

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