This study reflects the current state of banking in the Arab Gulf and activity in the region's financial markets. The book covers Saudi Arabia, Kuwait, Bahrain, Oman, Qatar and the United Arab Emirates. Each chapter examines development of commercial banking, monetary policy and the role of the central banks, and the role of specialized financial institutions. The role of Gulf finance in international financial markets is also considered, together with the involvement of Western banks in the Gulf. The financial climate in the Arab Gulf has changed considerably in recent years reflecting economic and political development. The recession brought about by the oil price falls of the 1980s is now over, and the proposed ending of the Gulf War has brought new confidence. Uncertainties remain however, and the region's financial institutions have been forced to consolidate and adapt to the new climate. All of these issues are discussed in this book.