The Arab Revolt, spearheaded by Hussein bin Ali, aimed to secure Arab independence from Ottoman rule, which had lasted for centuries. Hussein, the Sharif of Mecca, declared the revolt on June 10, 1916, amidst the backdrop of World War I, compelling Ottoman authorities and their allies to reassess their strategies in the region. The Sharif sought to rally Arabs across the Arabian Peninsula and beyond, leveraging growing discontent against the Ottomans. Hussein's aspirations were partly fueled by the McMahon-Hussein Correspondence, an agreement with the British that promised support for Arab independence in exchange for revolt against the Ottomans.

The revolting Arab forces, though initially disorganized, soon captured key locations including Mecca and Medina, galvanizing local support and leading to greater military actions. The revolt operated under the flag of Arab nationalism and was characterized by various battles that pitted Arab forces against Ottoman troops, supported by British military resources. Most notably, T.E. Lawrence, known as Lawrence of Arabia, played a crucial role in coordinating efforts between Arab rebels and British forces, amplifying the impact and visibility of the revolt.

By the end of the war, the revolt significantly weakened Ottoman control in the region, contributing to the latter's eventual collapse. The aftermath of the revolt also laid foundations for future Arab political movements, shaping the political landscape of the Middle East in the 20th century. Hussein's declaration thus not only marked the beginning of a revolution in Arab regions but also fortuitously aligned with the larger global context of national self-determination during a tumultuous period.