Our Mission
To increase knowledge of the Middle East among citizens of the United States and to promote a better understanding between the people of these two areas
What We Do
Watch this short video to learn about MEI's mission, its unique structure, and the variety of services it provides.
Our Story
In 1946, inspired by his experiences in the Middle East prior to World War II, architect and veteran George Camp Keiser gathered a group of scholars, ambassadors, professors, and politicians to establish an institution for the study of the Middle East. Keiser and his colleagues envisioned a center of learning where leaders from disparate fields could converge and collaborate in order, in the words of our corporate charter, “to increase knowledge of the Middle East among citizens of the United States and to promote a better understanding between the peoples of these two areas.”
Our Work
The Middle East Institute is leading the way for a new kind of think tank: one that thrives on the intersection of policy and culture. Our centers reflect our dedication to promoting understanding of the region through a wider lens.
Policy Center
A source for non-partisan expert analysis seeking solutions to the region’s most challenging issues
Education Center
Classes, academic resources, and professional development services to foster regional understanding
Arts & Culture Center
D.C.’s only gallery dedicated to contemporary and modern art from the Middle East
Our Leadership
Paul Salem
President and CEO
Kate Seelye
Senior Vice President
Brian Katulis
Vice President of Policy
Christel Bivens
Acting CFO
Firas Maksad
Director of Strategic Outreach, Senior Fellow
Courtney Lobel
Chief Development OfficerOur Board of Governors
Gen. (ret.) John Abizaid
Chairman
Marjorie A. Adams
Vice Chair
Robert Jordan
Vice Chair
Brian C. McK. Henderson
Vice Chair
Annual Reports
The Middle East Institute makes available its annual audited financial information including contributions, Form 990, financial statements, and annual reports. For more information about the Middle East Institute's funding, visit our Public Disclosures and Funding page.