Before modern borders, before passports, before Google Maps—these Middle Eastern countries were already thriving.
From ancient civilizations to empires that shaped art, science, and trade, these nations have been it for thousands of years. Let’s take a look at the Middle East’s oldest countries and how they’re still influencing the world today.
1. Egypt – The Blueprint for Civilization
You can’t talk old without talking about Egypt, which goes back to 3000 BCE. Home to the Pyramids, the Sphinx, mummies, and hieroglyphs that took us centuries to decode, Egypt’s legacy is unmatched.
Ancient Egyptians pioneered everything from paper (papyrus, anyone?) to eyeliner, proving they were way ahead of their time. And let’s not forget their influence on math, medicine, and architecture—without them, who knows where we’d be today?
2. Iraq – The Original City Life
Iraq, aka Mesopotamia, didn’t get the name Cradle of Civilization for no reason. It’s one of the oldest counties in the Middle East, alive since 4800 BCE. Iraq gave us the first cities and first legal codes like Hammurabi’s code.
Babylon, Sumer, Assyria—these weren’t just places; they were powerhouses of innovation. Iraq’s influence on literature and science is still major, with both writing and the concept of time attributed to them. Also, shoutout to Baghdad for being the intellectual capital of the Islamic Golden Age.
3. Iran – Where Empires Were Born
Persia, founded in 3200 BCE, didn’t just set the bar—it was the bar. The Persian Empire stretched across continents, bringing with it advanced road systems, postal services, and some of the best poetry ever written, think Rumi and Hafez.
And let’s be real, Persian food? Unmatched. Iran’s cultural and historical influence is still felt worldwide, from art to politics to some of the most dramatic shahs (kings) history has ever seen.
4. Palestine – The Crossroads of Civilization
Palestine has been at the heart of history for millennia, with ancient cities like Jericho, dating back to 9,000 BCE. From Canaanites to Romans to Ottomans, every empire wanted a piece of Palestine.
It’s also home to some of the world’s most significant religious sites, like Al-Aqsa Mosque and the Church of the Holy Sepulchre, making it a focal point for culture, spirituality, and historical movements that still shape global conversations today.
5. Lebanon – The OG Traders and Navigators
Lebanon first appeared in history around 3000 BCE, making it one of the oldest countries in the Middle East. The Phoenicians, Lebanon’s ancient ancestors, were the original business moguls. These seafaring merchants basically invented the concept of global trade and gifted the world the alphabet.
Beirut has been a cultural hub for centuries, blending East and West, ancient and modern. Even today, Lebanon’s impact on literature, art, and (of course) food is undeniable—because, let’s be real, nothing beats Lebanese mezze.
Still Running the Show
These countries aren’t just ancient relics; they continue to shape the world politically, culturally, and economically. Whether it’s through literature, food, or historical significance, their influence is still front and center. The Middle East might be wrapped in history, but its story is far from over.
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