Building on the US-Middle East relationship: Towards peace, prosperity, and partnership


The Middle East Institute has operated as a leading center for Middle East policy, education, and culture in Washington, DC since 1946. This year, as we celebrate our 75th anniversary, we are embarking on a bold strategic vision to deepen and expand our work serving as a trusted platform advancing understanding between the people of the United States and the Middle East.

Meeting the Moment


The Middle East is going through a period of unprecedented turbulence, compounded by the global pandemic and resulting in economic instability. At the same time, there have been breakthroughs towards peace and burgeoning partnerships in the region. It is imperative to continue to advance a collaborative and sustainable relationship between the Middle East and the U.S to help build a more stable and cooperative regional order.

Shaping the Future


The breadth of our expertise and our exclusive focus on the region make us uniquely suited to respond to emerging issues, tackle the challenges of tomorrow, and help foster the next generation of leaders committed to working toward peace, prosperity, and partnership between the United States and the Middle East.

An Integrated Think Tank for the 21st Century


The Middle East Institute is leading the way for a new kind of think tank: one that thrives at the intersection of policy and culture. Our centers reflect our dedication to promoting understanding of the region through a wider lens.

A Uniquely Holistic Approach

Policy Impact
The MEI Policy Center brings unmatched expertise and influence, convening key stakeholders, producing original research & communicating with decision-makers.

Education
Our Education Center offers a wide variety of resources, including language classes and a library, to increase knowledge of the region and forge the next generation of experts.

Cultural Diplomacy
MEI’s Arts and Culture Center builds bridges through cultural programming for diverse audiences, providing a platform for dialogue, and reinforcing universal values through the arts.

MEI@75 Signature Events


We are excited to announce an initial slate of anniversary programming in 2021 and look forward to launching new initiatives throughout the campaign.

February 8
Gen. Kenneth McKenzie delivered keynote address at start of annual MEI-CENTCOM Conference
See video and transcript

April
Middle East Policy Conference on the Biden administration's first 100 days
See video

May 7
Celebration marking the 75th anniversary of MEI's founding date
Learn more about MEI's history

October 12-15
Middle East Futures Forum, featuring a week of panels discussing the future of the region
Learn more

November 3
Virtual 75th Anniversary Gala and Awards Ceremony
Learn more

Join Us


MEI is meeting the moment by launching an expansion campaign in honor of our 75th anniversary. Please celebrate this special year with us and support our work to advance a collaborative and sustainable U.S.-Middle East partnership.

 

Invest in the Future of the US-Middle East Relationship


We seek to partner with individuals, companies, and other organizations who share our commitment to advancing the US-Middle East relationship.

Contact us today to learn more about investment opportunities.

History of the Middle East Institute


MEI was founded 75 years ago on May 8, 1946. Join us in celebrating this landmark in MEI's history with a look back at some archival materials from its founding and early years.

Read full history