List of Countries in West Asia

West Asia, commonly referred to as the Middle East, spans the western part of Asia, encompassing the Arabian Peninsula, the eastern Mediterranean, and parts of the Caucasus. Known for its arid deserts and historic waterways like the Tigris and Euphrates rivers, the region is rich in oil resources and has a profound cultural and religious significance, being the birthplace of major world religions.

West Asia has 19 countries including Armenia, Azerbaijan, Bahrain, Cyprus, Georgia, Iran, Iraq, Israel, Jordan, Kuwait, Lebanon, Oman, Palestine, Qatar, Saudi Arabia, Syria, Turkey, United Arab Emirates, and Yemen.

1. Saudi Arabia

Saudi Arabia, the largest country in the Arabian Peninsula, is renowned for its vast deserts, rich oil reserves, and Islamic heritage. As the birthplace of Islam and home to its two holiest cities, Mecca and Medina, Saudi Arabia holds profound religious significance for Muslims worldwide.

Key Facts:

• Capital: Riyadh
• Population: Over 34 million
• Official Language: Arabic
• Currency: Saudi Riyal (SAR)
• Government: Absolute monarchy, ruled by the Al Saud family
• Famous Landmarks: Mecca’s Grand Mosque, Medina’s Prophet’s Mosque, Riyadh’s Kingdom Centre Tower
• Economy: Largest exporter of petroleum, highly dependent on oil revenue, ongoing economic diversification efforts
• Culture: Conservative Islamic society, traditional Bedouin heritage, hospitality culture, rich poetry and literature traditions

2. Iran

Iran, historically known as Persia, boasts a rich cultural heritage that spans thousands of years. As one of the world’s oldest civilizations, Iran has made significant contributions to art, science, and literature. Despite facing political tensions with the West, Iran remains a regional power in the Middle East.

Key Facts:

• Capital: Tehran
• Population: Over 83 million
• Official Language: Persian (Farsi)
• Currency: Iranian Rial (IRR)
• Government: Islamic republic, with a Supreme Leader and an elected president
• Famous Landmarks: Persepolis, Imam Square in Isfahan, Naqsh-e Jahan Square
• Economy: Diverse economy with significant oil and gas reserves, manufacturing, and agriculture, impacted by international sanctions
• Culture: Ancient Persian civilization, Shia Islam as the predominant religion, rich tradition of poetry, music, and art

3. Iraq

Iraq, often referred to as the cradle of civilization, has a tumultuous history marked by ancient civilizations, conquests, and conflicts. Despite facing significant challenges in recent decades, including war and political instability, Iraq remains culturally rich and historically significant.

Key Facts:

• Capital: Baghdad
• Population: Over 41 million
• Official Languages: Arabic, Kurdish
• Currency: Iraqi Dinar (IQD)
• Government: Federal parliamentary republic
• Famous Landmarks: Ancient city of Babylon, Ziggurat of Ur, Baghdad’s Green Zone
• Economy: Rich in oil reserves, agriculture, and natural resources, reconstruction efforts following years of conflict
• Culture: Blend of Arab, Kurdish, and ancient Mesopotamian cultures, Islamic heritage, diverse ethnic and religious communities

4. Israel

Israel, situated at the crossroads of Europe, Asia, and Africa, has a complex history and diverse society. Established as a homeland for the Jewish people, Israel has become a center of innovation, technology, and cultural exchange in the Middle East.

Key Facts:

• Capital: Jerusalem (claimed)
• Population: Over 9 million
• Official Languages: Hebrew, Arabic
• Currency: Israeli New Shekel (ILS)
• Government: Parliamentary democracy
• Famous Landmarks: Western Wall, Old City of Jerusalem, Masada fortress
• Economy: Advanced economy with a focus on technology, agriculture, and tourism, ongoing conflicts affecting stability
• Culture: Diverse society with Jewish, Arab, and other minority communities, rich religious and cultural heritage, vibrant arts and culinary scene

5. Turkey

Turkey, straddling the border between Europe and Asia, boasts a unique blend of Eastern and Western influences. With a rich history encompassing the Byzantine, Roman, and Ottoman empires, Turkey serves as a bridge between different cultures and civilizations.

Key Facts:

• Capital: Ankara
• Population: Over 84 million
• Official Language: Turkish
• Currency: Turkish Lira (TRY)
• Government: Parliamentary republic
• Famous Landmarks: Hagia Sophia, Cappadocia’s rock formations, Ephesus ancient city
• Economy: Diverse economy with agriculture, manufacturing, and tourism sectors, strategic location for trade
• Culture: Blend of Anatolian, Mediterranean, and Middle Eastern cultures, rich culinary traditions, traditional music and dance

6. United Arab Emirates (UAE)

The United Arab Emirates is a federation of seven emirates situated on the southeastern corner of the Arabian Peninsula. Known for its modern cities, luxury tourism, and booming economy fueled by oil wealth, the UAE has rapidly transformed into a regional hub for business and tourism.

Key Facts:

• Capital: Abu Dhabi
• Population: Over 9 million
• Official Language: Arabic
• Currency: UAE Dirham (AED)
• Government: Federal absolute monarchy
• Famous Landmarks: Burj Khalifa, Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque, Palm Jumeirah
• Economy: Diversifying economy with a focus on finance, tourism, and real estate, significant oil reserves
• Culture: Blend of traditional Bedouin culture and modern cosmopolitanism, Islamic heritage, hospitality culture

7. Jordan

Jordan, located at the crossroads of Asia, Africa, and Europe, has a rich history dating back to ancient times. From the Nabatean city of Petra to the shores of the Dead Sea, Jordan is a land of stunning landscapes and cultural treasures.

Key Facts:

• Capital: Amman
• Population: Over 10 million
• Official Language: Arabic
• Currency: Jordanian Dinar (JOD)
• Government: Constitutional monarchy
• Famous Landmarks: Petra, Wadi Rum desert, Dead Sea
• Economy: Limited natural resources, reliant on tourism, agriculture, and services, receiving aid from international partners
• Culture: Ancient Nabatean heritage, Islamic influences, Bedouin traditions, warm hospitality

8. Lebanon

Lebanon, often called the “Switzerland of the Middle East,” is known for its stunning Mediterranean coastline, diverse culture, and vibrant nightlife. Despite facing political and economic challenges, Lebanon remains a cultural and culinary hub in the region.

Key Facts:

• Capital: Beirut
• Population: Over 6 million
• Official Language: Arabic
• Currency: Lebanese Pound (LBP)
• Government: Parliamentary republic
• Famous Landmarks: Baalbek Roman ruins, Jeita Grotto, Byblos ancient city
• Economy: Service-oriented economy, significant banking and tourism sectors, impacted by political instability and external conflicts
• Culture: Blend of Arab, Mediterranean, and Western influences, diverse religious and ethnic communities, renowned cuisine and music scene

9. Syria

Syria, with its ancient cities, historic sites, and diverse landscapes, has been at the crossroads of civilizations for millennia. Despite enduring a protracted civil war, Syria’s rich cultural heritage remains a testament to its enduring resilience.

Key Facts:

• Capital: Damascus
• Population: Approximately 17 million (pre-war estimate)
• Official Language: Arabic
• Currency: Syrian Pound (SYP)
• Government: Authoritarian regime led by Bashar al-Assad
• Famous Landmarks: Ancient city of Damascus, Palmyra ruins, Krak des Chevaliers
• Economy: Devastated by civil war, significant decline in GDP, widespread destruction of infrastructure
• Culture: Ancient history dating back to Mesopotamian and Roman civilizations, diverse ethnic and religious communities, renowned cuisine and hospitality

10. Qatar

Qatar, a small peninsula jutting into the Persian Gulf, has rapidly transformed into a modern and prosperous nation in recent decades. Known for its wealth, futuristic architecture, and hosting of major international events, Qatar plays an influential role in regional affairs.

Key Facts:

• Capital: Doha
• Population: Over 2.8 million
• Official Language: Arabic
• Currency: Qatari Riyal (QAR)
• Government: Absolute monarchy, ruled by the Al Thani family
• Famous Landmarks: The Pearl-Qatar, Museum of Islamic Art, Souq Waqif
• Economy: Richest country per capita, significant natural gas reserves, diversifying economy with a focus on finance, tourism, and infrastructure development
• Culture: Blend of traditional Bedouin culture and modernity, Islamic heritage, emphasis on education and cultural development

11. Kuwait

Kuwait, situated at the northern tip of the Persian Gulf, is known for its oil wealth, modern skyline, and rich maritime history. Despite being a small country, Kuwait punches above its weight in terms of economic influence and regional diplomacy.

Key Facts:

• Capital: Kuwait City
• Population: Over 4.5 million
• Official Language: Arabic
• Currency: Kuwaiti Dinar (KWD)
• Government: Constitutional monarchy with a parliamentary system
• Famous Landmarks: Kuwait Towers, Grand Mosque, Failaka Island
• Economy: Rich in oil reserves, significant petroleum industry, ongoing economic diversification efforts
• Culture: Bedouin heritage, Islamic traditions, emphasis on family values and hospitality

12. Bahrain

Bahrain, a group of islands in the Persian Gulf, has a rich history dating back to ancient times. As one of the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) countries, Bahrain has become a regional financial and commercial hub, known for its modern infrastructure and vibrant culture.

Key Facts:

• Capital: Manama
• Population: Over 1.5 million
• Official Language: Arabic
• Currency: Bahraini Dinar (BHD)
• Government: Constitutional monarchy with a parliamentary system
• Famous Landmarks: Bahrain Fort, Qal’at al-Bahrain, Bab al-Bahrain
• Economy: Diversifying economy with a focus on finance, tourism, and services, significant oil and gas reserves
• Culture: Blend of Arab, Persian, and Western influences, tolerant society, rich tradition of pearl diving and seafaring