What Were the Earlier Names of Iran, Jordan, Iraq, Saudi Arabia and United Arab Emirates? Check Their Historical Names Here

The historical names of Middle Eastern countries evolved through the impact of empires, geographical features, colonial agreements, and political changes throughout history. 

What Was the Earlier Name of Iran Before?

The name Persia, which people used to identify Iran, maintained its existence until 1935 because this term described the Persian Empire. Western nations used “Persia” for centuries. Reza Shah requested foreign governments to use the name “Iran” because this term already existed in the country, which means “Land of the Aryans.”

Why Was Jordan Once Called Transjordan?

During the British Mandate after World War I, Jordan existed as the Emirate of Transjordan. The name referred to territories east of the Jordan River. The Hashemite Kingdom of Jordan became an official territory in 1949 after the country achieved independence and established its political system.

Was Iraq Earlier Known as Mesopotamia?

The region now known as Iraq once held the name Mesopotamia, which means "land between two rivers" because this area lies between the Tigris River and the Euphrates River. The area hosted ancient civilizations such as Sumer, Akkad, and Babylon, and Assyria before the modern Iraqi state emerged in the 20th century.

What was Saudi Arabia Called Before 1932?

The territory that existed before unification contained land from both Hejaz and Nejd. King Abdulaziz Ibn Saud unified these regions to establish the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia in 1932.

What was the United Arab Emirates (UAE) Known as Before 1971?

The British protected the sheikhdoms, which made up the Trucial States, until the UAE gained independence. They united in 1971 to form the UAE.

The historical names of these locations demonstrate the historical background, colonial impact, and geographic changes that created the modern Middle Eastern countries.