Arab soft power has spread to Gulf Arab states , writes Sultan Sooud Al Qassemi . The Gulf cities have turned themselves into globally recognized brands , while traditional Arab cities such as Baghdad , Cairo and Damascus have become synonymous with turmoil and unrest . The World Bank ranks the Arab Gulf states as among the most generous aid donors , he says . They are also home to the Arab world 's most influential print media , writes Al Said . Gulf tourism is thriving , he says , and the Gulf states ' influence is growing .
Arab soft power has spread to Gulf Arab states , writes Sultan Sooud Al Qassemi . The World Bank ranks the Arab Gulf states as among the most generous aid donors , he says . They are also home to the Arab world 's most influential print media , writes Al Said . Gulf tourism is thriving , he says , and the Gulf states ' influence is growing .