Regions

Region

Description

Advantages

Disadvantages 

Northern Tier* 

Located between Turkey and Iran

In the Anatolian Plateau in Turkey, there is a large population and fertile soil for farming

In the Iranian Plateau, it is very dry and has a small population

Arabian Peninsula

Large plateau with multiple countries, the largest being Saudi Arabia

Fertile desert areas around oasis, lots of oil, and religious importance

In most areas it is desert, with almost no water. Has a small population.

Fertile Crescent

Arc between the Mediterranean all the way to the Persian Gulf

Rich soil, lots of water, large population

Few natural defenses, river flooding is unpredictable.

Nile River Valley

Located in North Africa, in Egypt

Large population and trade, deserts protect it from invaders and the flooding of the Nile was predictable

The Nile could still flood too much, leading to destruction of crops.

Maghreb

Located in North Africa


The small population is crowded near the coast, as there is better access to rain and fertile soil.

Important location for trade


Connected to the Middle East because of religion(Islam) and culture

Mostly a dry area on the interior, with a small population.

  • Major cities tend to be located along the coastline, which facilitates economic activities and cultural exchange.