Cities and Belonging in the Gulf Arab States

July 24, 2019 Yasser Elsheshtawy, Sarah Moser, Farah Al-Nakib, Kristin Smith Diwan (Moderator) In his latest book, “Temporary Cities: Resisting Transience in Arabia,“ Yasser Elsheshtawy examines the nature of the Gulf Arab city and how its inhabitants, mostly transient guests, have found a way to sustain and create a home. Indeed, the spectacular growth of Gulf cities is central to the story of the rise of the Gulf countries themselves and the associated concept of nationhood. Yet, in the shadow of the latest megaprojects, both local and transient populations have struggled to make these cities their homes. What does the modern Gulf city illustrate about the rise of Gulf countries themselves? And what message are Gulf leaders communicating with each new megaproject? How have local populations adapted to the constant change and continuous growth associated with these cities? How has migration shaped these cities and how have large numbers of transient populations attempted to make these cit