The economic visions of the Gulf states and their approaches to migrants

This paper assesses how each of the Gulf states views migrants in relation to the goals of their economic visions, which encompass both formal documents and implemented policies. Their views range from the idea that migrant numbers should be reduced—to free up jobs for nationals or mitigate population pressure—to seeing them as an engine of economic growth through their roles as producers, consumers and taxpayers. The paper also examines some of the economic history of migration to the region and the emergence of long-term economic strategic planning.