Middle East And North Africa (MENA)
What Is Middle East And North Africa (MENA)?
The term “MENA” stands for the Middle East and North Africa. It is a geographical and cultural designation that refers to a region in the northeastern corner of Africa and the southwestern part of Asia.
The MENA region has a unique identity, and the countries within the region are known for their shared historical, cultural, and socio-economic characteristics.
It plays a significant role in global affairs due to several gainful factors, such as its abundant energy resources, strategic location, and geopolitical importance.
The number of countries covered by the MENA region varies based on different definitions and classifications used by different organizations. However, the most commonly recognized MENA region countries list includes around 19 countries.
The MENA region has a number of countries, such as Algeria, Bahrain, Egypt, Iran, Iraq, Israel, Jordan, Kuwait, Lebanon, Libya, Morocco, Oman, Palestine, Qatar, Saudi Arabia, Sudan, Syria, Tunisia, the United Arab Emirates, and Yemen.
It is worth noting that some organizations may include additional countries like Djibouti, Mauritania, or Somalia, expanding the list to around 22 or 23 countries. This difference in the number of MENA countries arises as they are identified per the respective context and criteria used for classification.
What is GCC?
Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC), political and economic alliance of six Middle Eastern countries—Saudi Arabia, Kuwait, the United Arab Emirates, Qatar, Bahrain, and Oman. The GCC was established in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, in May 1981. The purpose of the GCC is to achieve unity among its members based on their common objectives and their similar political and cultural identities, which are rooted in Arab and Islamic cultures. Presidency of the council rotates annually.
Importance of Islamic Religion in MENA
Almost every aspect of life in the MENA region is influenced by religion. For example, adherents of Islam in Saudi Arabia close their businesses during prayer times, as prayer is perceived to be more important than anything else. Note also the difference between religions. It is true that Islam overwhelms the region; however, there are also countries with a sizable Christian population, such as Lebanon and Egypt.
Social norms in most of the region are similar. People are generous and welcoming, but they do not take kindly to anything that might bring dishonour to their culture or tarnish their image. Middle Easterners and North Africans take their reputation and their honor seriously. Therefore, it is important not to advertise, promote or interact in a way that is perceived as demeaning or bring shame to potential clients.
