What is the Middle East?
The Middle East is located in South-East of Europe, North-East of Africa and West of Asia. It includes major water bodies such as the Arabian Sea and the Mediterranean Sea. The region is home to the Tigris & Euphrates River, the Nile River, and the Indus River. The Middle East also features mountain ranges like the Taurus Mountains, Zagros Mountains, and Hindu Kush Mountains. Some of the major countries in the Middle East are Saudi Arabia, Egypt, and Qatar.
Why is it an important region?
The Middle East is an important region due to its vast resources, including being a major crude oil supply source and having influential trading points. The region's physical geography influences its significance as it can easily access other parts of the world, has large access to water, and contains mountain ranges that can power vehicles, heat buildings, and generate electricity.
How does physical geography influence the region?
The physical geography of the Middle East reflects on the concentrated population in certain areas due to the availability of drinking water, sanitation, agriculture, and trade. It also contributes to the uninhabitable nature of some regions, which has led to separated cultures and natural borders.
What problems does the climate of the Middle East create?
The mainly dry and semi-arid climate of the Middle East makes it harder to get access to water, which leads to the need to rely on other water sources such as aquifers and desalination plants.
Why is the population so diverse?
The diverse population of the Middle East is influenced by factors such as employment, labour, and the need to construct new infrastructure, as well as the reliance on desalination plants and trade.
Why is the Middle East a major economic region?
The Middle East is a major economic region due to its vast crude oil and natural gas reserves, which have led to new employment opportunities, a strong economy, and the development of key industry sectors. The region's attractions and entertainment options have also contributed to its economic significance.
How has the UAE developed?
The United Arab Emirates (UAE) has seen development in its human development index (HDI), gross national income (GNI) per capita, and the diversification of its economy, which has reduced the reliance on oil industries to contribute to the country's GDP.
Why is Yemen the poorest country in the Middle East?
Yemen is the poorest country in the Middle East due to political instability and conflict that have hindered its finance and development, as well as its heavy reliance on oil exports, which have faced declines in recent years.
Why is there ongoing conflict in the Middle East?
Ongoing conflicts in the Middle East are attributed to socio-economic disparities, poor records of human rights, and challenges to security.
Why is the Middle East an important world region?
The Middle East is an important world region due to its vast economic significance, cultural diversity, historical importance, and its role as a major trading hub.
Practice Test:
Which of the following countries is NOT located in the Middle East?
a. Iran
b. Egypt
c. United Arab Emirates
d. Saudi ArabiaThe major religions practised in the Middle East are:
a. Christianity and Islam
b. Islam and Judaism
c. Islam and Hinduism
d. Christianity and JudaismWhich of the following is a major river in the Middle East?
a. Amazon River
b. Nile River
c. Mekong River
d. Mississippi RiverThe Strait of Hormuz is an important strategic waterway for which commodity?
a. Oil
b. Natural Gas
c. Coal
d. Iron OreWhich of the following is NOT a member of OPEC?
a. Saudi Arabia
b. Iraq
c. Iran
d. Egypt
