Transformations of the Geonominal Identity of the Arabian Gulf: A Geopolitical Analysis of the Naming Dispute Across Historical Periods.

Abstract

The Gulf is one of the world’s most strategically significant waterways historically ser0ving as a zone of power struggles cultural interactions and competition among ancient and modern empires. Throughout this rich history, the Gulf acquired an additional and highly sensitive dimension geo-onomastic identity referring to the naming conflict between Arabian Gulf and Persian Gulf. Historical evidence shows that the Gulf has carried multiple names over time such as Persian Sea, Arab Sea Basra Gulf Upper Sea and Sea of Omanreflecting shifting political, cultural and economic influences across different eras.This study examines the transformation of the Gulf’s nomenclature as a geopolitical instrument of power, rather than a neutral geographic label. Colonial interventions European cartographic traditions, and regional ambitions have played decisive roles in reinforcing certain names while marginalizing others. The research also explores the Arab position within this controversy especially following the United Nations use of Persian Gulf based on the International Hydrographic Organization’s registry rather than political endorsement.The study aims to analyze the roots of the naming conflict, interpret the motivations of the involved actors, and highlight the impact of terminology on shaping the geopolitical and identity-related perceptions of Gulf states. It argues that geo-onomastic identity has evolved into a component of national security and cultural symbolism for the peoples of the region. The study concludes that the Gulf’s naming dispute is a clear example of the intersection between geography politics and identity demonstrating that naming is not merely descriptive but a symbolic tool of influence and competition among nations .