Abstract
This thesis discusses the role that sports play in government actions in Qatar, Abu Dhabi and Dubai. These national and emirate governments utilize sport in economic, domestic, and international policies. Major sporting events are hosted for economic gain and international prestige. Sporting initiatives are typically more focused on the welfare of national society. The versatility of the sports industry allows for it to be used in many ways by each government, but it is too early to tell if these strategies will have successful long term outcomes.