The Institute for Gulf Affairs is an independent, nonpartisan organization that disseminates solid information about the Gulf region and produces thoughtful analyses of Gulf politics and international relations. Based in Washington, DC, the Institute is at the center of a global network of reliable individuals, some of whom, due to the closed nature of the Saudi political system, have no other outlet for their views. In order to fulfill this mission, the Institute: • Convenes conferences in Washington, where informed analysts debate major issues concerning the Gulf countries and US-Gulf Relations. • Conducts independent research and investigations, reports of which are posted on this website: www.gulfinstitute.org • Fosters a deeper understanding of the Gulf countries among Washington policymakers and members of the press corps by providing them with up-to-date and exclusive information, and by putting them in contact with reliable analysts. • Sponsors task forces whose reports help define the foreign policy agenda.