Jordan is the country that is not part of the Arabian Peninsula.
Jordan is geographically distinct from the Arabian Peninsula, despite its proximity to some of the peninsula's northern nations. It plays a significant role in the broader Middle East region but belongs to a different geographical classification.
Understanding Jordan's Geographical Position
Jordan is situated to the northwest of Saudi Arabia. This placement puts it squarely within the Levant region, a historical and geographical area of the Eastern Mediterranean. The Levant typically includes countries such as Syria, Lebanon, Israel, Palestine, and Jordan, characterized by their coastal access or proximity to the Mediterranean Sea and distinct cultural and historical ties.
While often discussed in the context of the Middle East, its landmass does not form part of the Arabian Peninsula, which is a large landmass extending into the Arabian Sea.
Countries of the Arabian Peninsula
The Arabian Peninsula is a vast region predominantly occupied by desert, with significant oil and natural gas reserves. It is surrounded by the Red Sea to the west, the Arabian Sea to the south, and the Persian Gulf to the east. The countries typically considered part of the Arabian Peninsula are:
| Country | Capital City | Key Features |
|---|---|---|
| Saudi Arabia | Riyadh | Largest country on the peninsula, holy cities |
| Yemen | Sana'a | Southern tip, diverse landscapes |
| Oman | Muscat | Eastern coast, rich maritime history |
| United Arab Emirates | Abu Dhabi | Federation of emirates, modern development |
| Qatar | Doha | Small peninsula on the Persian Gulf |
| Bahrain | Manama | Island nation, financial hub |
| Kuwait | Kuwait City | At the head of the Persian Gulf, oil-rich |
These nations share unique geographical, historical, and cultural characteristics that define the Arabian Peninsula. Jordan, by contrast, with its Mediterranean influences and different geological formations, forms part of a distinct regional identity within the Middle East.
