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A sheikhdom or sheikdom ( Arabic: مشيخة, romanized: Mashyakhah) is a geographical area or a society ruled by a tribal leader known as a sheikh (Arabic: شيخ). ^[1] Sheikhdoms exist almost exclusively within Arab countries, particularly in the Arabian Peninsula ( Arab States of the Persian Gulf), with some notable exceptions throughout history (e.g. the Sangage Sheikhdom).

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.

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