Countries Bordering the Persian Gulf: 8 Nations Share These Strategic Waters

The Persian Gulf is bordered by eight countries—not five. All are critical to global energy, trade, and geopolitics:

1. Iran – North/northeast coast; controls Strait of Hormuz north shore.
2. Iraq – Tiny 58-km coastline; Umm Qasr port.
3. Kuwait – Northwest; deep harbor, massive oil exports.
4. Saudi Arabia – West coast; Ras Tanura (world's largest oil terminal).
5. Bahrain – Island nation; financial hub, US 5th Fleet HQ.
6. Qatar – Peninsula; LNG superpower, Al Udeid Air Base (US).
7. United Arab Emirates – Southwest; Dubai/Abu Dhabi ports, diversified economy.
8. Oman – Musandam Peninsula controls Strait of Hormuz south shore (exclave).

Strategic Significance

• ~20% world oil transits Strait of Hormuz.
• GCC (Gulf Cooperation Council) = 6 Arab states (excl. Iran, Iraq).
• Disputed name: "Arabian Gulf" used by Arab states; "Persian Gulf" internationally/historically.

Eight nations. One waterway. The world watches every move.