How Many Countries Are in the Middle East? The Definitive List

The Middle East comprises 17 sovereign nations, though definitions vary by geopolitical context. The region spans Western Asia and parts of North Africa, unified by shared history, culture, and strategic significance.

The 17 Countries

1. Bahrain
2. Cyprus
3. Egypt
4. Iran
5. Iraq
6. Israel
7. Jordan
8. Kuwait
9. Lebanon
10. Oman
11. Palestine (State of Palestine, UN observer status)
12. Qatar
13. Saudi Arabia
14. Syria
15. Turkey
16. United Arab Emirates
17. Yemen

Notes on Classification

Some counts exclude Cyprus (geographically Asian but politically European, EU member) or Turkey (transcontinental, NATO member). Egypt is transcontinental (Sinai Peninsula in Asia). The State of Palestine has limited recognition but participates in UN and regional bodies.

Broader definitions sometimes include Afghanistan, Pakistan, or North African nations (Libya, Tunisia, Algeria, Morocco, Sudan) in the "Greater Middle East" or MENA (Middle East and North Africa) framework.

For precision, specify whether you mean the core 17, the MENA region (~21 countries), or a specific geopolitical grouping.