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The Maritime Silk Road: Connectivity and exchange across the Indian Ocean and Arabian Gulf
Abstract
This article presents a historical case study analysis of the ancient Silk Road’s role in facilitating connectivity between the Arabian Gulf and the Indian Ocean. The study draws on various sources to trace the maritime routes that linked diverse civilizations across these regions. By examining archaeological findings, historical texts and trade records, the article highlights the economic, cultural and political exchanges fostered by these maritime connections. The analysis reveals how the ancient Silk Road was not merely a conduit for silk and spices but also a catalyst for cultural diffusion, technological exchange and diplomatic relations. The study further explores the impact of these connections on the development of early global trade networks, the spread of religions and the exchange of knowledge and innovations. Through a detailed examination of the Maritime Silk Road, this article sheds light on the complex web of interactions that shaped the historical landscape of the Arabian Gulf and the Indian Ocean regions, contributing to a deeper understanding of their interconnected past.
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Cited by
Sorted by citations
The development of arab merchants in the Maritime Southeast Asian archipelago (7th–15th centuries)
Lihua, L. (2026) · Cogent Arts and Humanities · doi:10.1080/23311983.2026.2730045
Metadata
- Authors
- Zreik, M.
- Affiliations
- ISNI: 000000012360039X Sun Yat-sen University
- ORCID
- Zreik, Mohamad
- Venue
- Journal of Gulf Studies
- Publisher
- Intellect
- Published
- 2025-04-01
- Volume
- 2
- Issue
- 1
- Pages
- 21-41
- ISSN
- 2976-5633 (ISSN-L)
- 2976-5641
- OpenAlex
- W4411958771
- Cited by
- 1
- References
- 30
- Citations by year
- 2026: 1
- FWCI
- 13.03
- Type
- journal article
- Language
- en
- Open access
- closed
- Locations
- Journal of Gulf studies. (publishedVersion)
- Topics
- Social Sciences › Arts and Humanities › History › Global Maritime and Colonial Histories
- Social Sciences › Arts and Humanities › History › Eurasian Exchange Networks
- Social Sciences › Arts and Humanities › History › Medieval History and Crusades
- Keywords
- Maritime Silk Road, Indian Ocean trade, Persian Gulf, ancient trade networks, cultural diffusion, technology exchange, diplomatic relations, spread of religion, knowledge sharing, spice trade, silk trade, early globalization
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