This paper presents these opportunities for Chinese engagement in the Arab world, as a pathway to fulfill China’s natural role as a major global power in the transitioning world order. Furthermore, China’s soft power is presented in stark contrast to decades of failed U.S. policies in the region, especially in the Arab world. Policies that have been aptlydescribed by Chatham House Senior Fellow, Dr. Micah Zenka, as consisting “of weapons sales to allied governments, military-to-military training programs, counterterrorism operations, and long-term troop deployments.” The devastating consequences of U.S. hard power have simultaneously enabled incompetent and authoritarian leaders and contributed to the political and social fragmentation of many countries in the region as a result of military conflict and war. In contrast, China’s use of soft power, relying on economic development, infrastructure investments and technology transfer; while respecting the principles of sovereignty and non-intervention provides an alternative vision - one better suited for the current challenges facing the Arab World.