Boundary issues constitute one of a series of problems in the Arabian Gulf region. In addition, they reflect tensions in the area. Among these problems the Qatari-Bahraini dispute was a serious one. The root of this dispute goes back to the 19ژthگ century, that is when Great Britain had full control over the eastern part of the Arabian Peninsula.The dispute not only affected the relationship between the two countries, but also threatened the existence of the Gulf Cooperation Council. In 1986 the two countries were on the edge of having a war, but due to the great efforts of King Fahad of Saudi Arabia this war was avoided. Instead, they agreed to raise this dispute to the International Court of Justice. This paper focuses on the historical roots of the dispute over the following islands: Fisht Aldibel, Howar, Jaradah, Jinan, in addition to Al Zubara area and the maritime boundary. It also discusses the International Court of Justice which gave Bahrain the islands of Howar and Jaradah; and Qatar gained the sovereignty over Al Zubara, Jinan, and Fisht Aldibel.
Key words: Qatar, Bahrain, Boundary dispute, Fisht Al Dibel, Howar, Jaradah, Zobarah, Jinan, International court of Justice.