Question: What country has shorelines on the Red Sea and the Persian Gulf?
Show answer
Saudi Arabia.
Saudi Arabia is the country that has shorelines on both the Red Sea and the Persian Gulf. This strategically significant geographical positioning has played a crucial role in its historical, economic, and political development.
To the west, Saudi Arabia borders the Red Sea, a vital maritime route that connects to the Mediterranean Sea via the Suez Canal, one of the world’s most significant shipping lanes. This access has historically facilitated trade and cultural exchange between Africa, the Middle East, and Europe. Major Saudi cities along the Red Sea include Jeddah, the country’s principal port city, which also serves as the gateway for millions of Muslims making the pilgrimage to Mecca, the holiest city in Islam.
To the east, Saudi Arabia has a coastline along the Persian Gulf, another critical body of water known for its extensive oil and gas reserves. The Persian Gulf is bordered by several major oil-producing countries, and Saudi Arabia, with its vast oil fields, plays a dominant role in the global energy market. The city of Dhahran, located near the Gulf, is a hub for the Saudi oil industry, and the nearby port city of Dammam is a key point for oil exportation.
The dual coastlines have not only bolstered Saudi Arabia’s economic importance due to its oil exports but also enhanced its strategic military significance. Control over both these coastlines allows Saudi Arabia to influence major maritime routes and maintain a strong naval presence in both the Red Sea and the Persian Gulf, contributing to regional stability and security.
Additionally, these coastlines support Saudi Arabia’s fishing industry and tourism sector. The Red Sea, in particular, is known for its rich marine biodiversity, coral reefs, and diving spots, attracting tourists and promoting conservation efforts.
In recent years, Saudi Arabia has been investing in ambitious projects to diversify its economy beyond oil, leveraging its geographical assets. One such project is NEOM, a planned mega-city along the Red Sea, which aims to become a global hub for innovation and tourism.
