Geography:
* Located between the Arabian Peninsula and Iran.
* Semi-enclosed body of water connected to the Arabian Sea by the Strait of Hormuz.
* Area: approximately 240,000 square kilometers.
* Average depth: 35 meters, maximum depth: 90 meters.
* Coastline shared by eight countries: Iran, Iraq, Kuwait, Saudi Arabia, Bahrain, Qatar, United Arab Emirates (UAE), and Oman.
History:
* Historically known as "Mare Persicum" by the Romans.
* Significant crossroads for trade and cultural exchange for centuries.
* Former center of empires like Achaemenid, Sassanid, and Abbasid.
* Discovery of oil in the early 20th century transformed the region's geopolitics.
Economy:
* Holds about 30% of the world's proven oil reserves, making it crucial for global energy markets.
* Major producer and exporter of oil and gas.
* Growing focus on developing tourism and other sectors to diversify economies.
Strategic importance:
* The Strait of Hormuz is a critical chokepoint for oil transportation, with over 20% of global oil shipments passing through it.
* Geopolitical rivalry and regional tensions are major concerns, impacting stability and energy security.
* Piracy and maritime security remain challenges in some areas.
Environmental issues:
* Pollution from oil spills, industrial waste, and coastal development.
* Overfishing and declining marine biodiversity.
* Rising sea levels and climate change pose long-term threats.
Other notes:
* Diverse cultures and traditions exist across the region.
* Tourism plays a significant role in some countries, particularly the UAE.
* Water scarcity is a major challenge for many countries bordering the Gulf.
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