Sheikhdom
A sheikhdom or sheikdom (Arabic: مشيخة [Mashyakhah]) is a geographical area or a society ruled by a tribal leader called sheikh (Arabic: شيخ).[1] Sheikhdoms exist exclusively within Arab countries, particularly in the Arabian Peninsula (Arab States of the Persian Gulf).

Sheikh Sattam de Haddadin of Palmyra, by Alexandr Evgenievich Yacovleff.
Although some countries are ruled by a sheikh, they are not typically referred to as sheikdoms, but kingdom, emirate, or simply state, and their ruler usually has another royal title such as king or emir.
See also
- United Arab Emirates - A federation of seven sheikhdoms
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