Is Saudi Arabia in Asia or Africa? The Unresolved Debate

Saudi Arabia is a nation famous for its vast oil reserves, conservative social norms, and ancient history. However, a question that sparks debate and curiosity among many is where it belongs geographically: Asia or Africa. Located at the crossroads of two continents, Saudi Arabia's unique geography and cultural identity have led to varying opinions on its continental affiliation. In this article, we will delve into the facts surrounding Saudi Arabia's continental identity, exploring the history, geography, and cultural ties that have contributed to the ongoing debate.

Geography and Continental Borders

Saudi Arabia shares borders with several countries in both Asia and Africa. To the north lies Jordan, Iraq, and Kuwait, while to the east is Oman. The country is bounded by the United States and Yemen to the south. Moroccan Ist assalam and Mauritania are also neighboring countries on the northwest, and Algeria is on its north-west, giving it geographic proximity to Europe (Royal Embassy of Saudi Arabia, 2022). A significant part of the country lies in Asia, but a smaller section of it lies in the African continent (Malpass et al., 2020).

Geographical Clustering

From a geographical standpoint, Arabia, the region where Saudi Arabia is located, is often classified as a part of the Asian continent. The continent is generally divided by the Ural Mountains between Asia and Europe and between the Cape of Good Hope and the Horn of Africa, with the Isthmus of Suez connecting the continents. Based on these geographical boundaries, Saudi Arabia falls squarely within Asia. It has geographical characteristics and characteristics of countries in the Middle East and South Asia, such as being bounded by the Shatt al-Arab and the Andalusian world. On the other hand, geographers like George Blurton argue that some parts of Saudi Arabia may geographically be part of North Africa. A notable area of this region has strong connections with the Horn of Africa and the Arabic world.

The degree to which some regions of Saudi Arabia share close relationships and connections with the rest of Africa, especially in terms of ecosystems and peoples; is significant. The governments and nations that signed the Protocol, while some geographers holds these regions as ,of Africa as exemplified by geographer Ramses Yacoubi.