Geographic Location
Location in Africa: Western Sahara is located in Northwest Africa, bordered by Morocco to the north, Algeria to the northeast, Mauritania to the east and south, and the Atlantic Ocean to the west.
Latitude and Longitude: Approximately 24°N, 13°W.
Size: 266,000 square kilometers.
Population
Population: Estimated at 632,200.
Economy
GDP: Western Sahara’s economy is not well-documented due to its disputed status. It relies heavily on fishing, phosphate mining, and some agriculture.
Currency: Moroccan Dirham (MAD) is used in Moroccan-controlled areas.
National Symbols
Anthem: The Sahrawi Arab Democratic Republic (SADR) uses “Yā Banīy As-Saharā” (O Sons of the Sahara) as its anthem.
National Pledge: There is no widely recognized national pledge.
Culture and Customs
Ethnic Groups: Predominantly Sahrawis, a nomadic Bedouin group of mixed Arab-Berber descent.
Languages: Arabic (official), with Spanish and Berber also spoken.
Religion: Predominantly Sunni Islam.
Customs: Sahrawi culture emphasizes oral traditions, poetry, and hospitality. Traditional nomadic lifestyles have been impacted by the ongoing conflict and displacement.
Main Airports
- Laayoune Airport (Hassan I Airport): Serves the largest city, Laayoune.
- Dakhla Airport: Located in the southern region.
- Smara Airport (SMW): A smaller regional airport.
Popular Tourist Destinations
- Dakhla Lagoon: Known for water sports and scenic beauty.
- Laayoune: The largest city, offering cultural and historical insights.
- Bou Craa: Site of one of the world’s largest phosphate mines.
- Desert Landscapes: Offers unique experiences like camel treks and stargazing.
Events and Festivals
- FiSahara Film Festival: An international film festival held in Sahrawi refugee camps.
- Sahrawi National Day (February 27): Celebrates the proclamation of the Sahrawi Arab Democratic Republic.
- Cultural Gatherings: Focus on traditional music, dance, and poetry.
Practical Information
Calling Code: +212 (shared with Morocco).
Country Domain: .eh (not widely used).
Currency: Moroccan Dirham (MAD) in Moroccan-controlled areas; Sahrawi Peseta is symbolic in SADR-controlled areas.