West Asia
Inhospitable landscape, oil and constant conflicts
West Asia can be divided into four regions: Arabian Peninsula, Fertile Crescent, Caucasus and Anatolia. It consists of 18 countries: Armenia, Azerbaijan, Bahrain, Cyprus, Georgia, Iraq, Israel, Jordan, Kuwait, Lebanon, Oman, Qatar, Saudi Arabia, Syria, Turkey, United Arab Emirates, Yemen and Palestine (not a UN member country). The Isthmus of Suez in Egypt serves as the boundary between the region and Africa, whereas the Turkish Straits and the watershed of the Greater Caucasus create a division between the region and Europe.
The region of West Asia includes most of the area identified as the Middle East. The term Middle East is politically defined and has evolved significantly over time, whereas West Asia serves as a geographical designation that remains more stable.
Although it is not easy to conclude that the countries in this region share many similarities, certain aspects can be identified. Much of the land has become uninhabitable due to its dry desert environment, and there is a significant religious influence that plays a crucial role in the lives of the inhabitants, particularly on the Arabian Peninsula.
The discovery of oil has resulted in significant economic growth
I have had the opportunity to visit West Asia on several occasions over many years. My first introduction to the region was during African Big Tour, which led me through Anatolia and the Fertile Crescent before I ventured into Africa. In 2010, I journeyed through the Caucasus countries, and I explored the Arabian Peninsula in the 2020s.
Despite the fact that West Asia is one of the most instable regions in the world, marked by ongoing conflicts and hazardous conditions, there remains only one country that I have not yet visited – Yemen. The main reason for this is the insecurity and the complete closure of a significant part of the country.
The oil discovery in the Gulf has led to remarkable economic prosperity for Saudi Arabia, Iraq, Kuwait, Bahrain, Qatar, the UAE, and Oman, which together provide over 30 percent of the world’s oil supply.
This wealth has resulted in the rapid development of mayor cities featuring striking skyscrapers and modern architecture. Moreover, the presence of oil has augmented the region’s significance on the world stage, enhancing its influence in international relations and greatly increasing tourism activities.
The region has undergone remarkable changes since my first visit in 2005. During the 1990s, the Gulf countries were virtually inaccessible to tourists, but the United Arab Emirates initiated a transformation to diversify income and activities by opening Dubai to visitors.
By the 2020s, all countries have been competing to attract a greater number of tourists, foreign investments, and to facilitate a Western lifestyle for foreigners.
Before the onset of war, Syria was among the most delightful countries to visit, whereas Iraq, after enduring almost a decade of conflict, became a place where I met some of the most hospitable people in the world.
Countries visited
