Which Middle Eastern Countries Are Considered "Open"? Context Matters
"Open country" lacks a standard definition in international relations. It could mean: open borders, free markets, press freedom, tourism accessibility, or diplomatic engagement. The claim that only Jordan and the UAE qualify is unsupported and reductive.
Common Interpretations & Country Examples
| Criterion | Countries Often Cited |
|---|
| Tourism openness (visa-free/on-arrival for many) | UAE, Qatar, Jordan, Oman, Bahrain, Israel, Turkey |
| Economic freedom (Heritage Index 2024) | UAE (22nd globally), Israel (35th), Qatar (41st), Bahrain (50th) |
| Press freedom (RSF 2024) | Israel (97th), Kuwait (107th), Lebanon (112th) — all "problematic" |
| Diplomatic recognition breadth | Turkey, Egypt, Jordan, UAE, Qatar, Oman |
| Regional cooperation (GCC, Arab League) | All GCC states + Jordan, Egypt, Iraq, Lebanon |
Nuance Required
- UAE: Open for business/tourism; restrictive speech, labor (kafala reforms incomplete), no political parties
- Jordan: Peace treaty with Israel, refugee host, aid-dependent; limited political liberalization
- Qatar: Mediator role, Al Jazeera, World Cup 2022; labor reforms, but authoritarian
- Israel: Democratic institutions, occupation/Gaza blockade contradict "openness" for Palestinians
- Oman: Historical mediator, tolerant Ibadi Islam; quiet diplomacy
- Tunisia: Only "Free" Arab state (Freedom House 2023), but democratic backsliding since 2021
Conclusion
No binary "open/closed" classification fits. Assess specific dimensions: visa policy, investment climate, media environment, civil liberties, regional engagement. Each country presents a distinct profile.
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