| Region | Western Asia |
| Religions | Islam • [Judaism • [Christianity • [Pre-Islamic Arabian Religions |
| Governance | City-states |
| Unified in | |
| Major cities | |
| Notable role | |
| Trade partners | |
| Historical period | |
| Dominant geography | Mountains • deserts • fertile valleys |
Arabia, or the Land of Spices, is a vast and diverse region spanning mountains, desert, and oasis situated at the crossroads of Europe, Africa, and Asia. It was historically composed of numerous city-states that were fiercely independent and often engaged in complex alliances and rivalries. Due to its unique geography and strategic location, Arabia played a central role in the transcontinental Silk Road and Spice Route systems, making it a wealthy and influential region. Three major mountain ranges, the Nashas, the Talif, and the Jabirah, wind through the northern part of Arabia, with a winding, treacherous central pass providing the only viable route for overland trade caravans.
The terrain of Arabia is predominantly mountainous in the north, with major rivers, the Hrad and Nabal, flowing from the Nashas towards the Fertile Plains. The southern Ashadaad Desert is one of the hottest and most inhospitable regions in the world, while the Crocodile Swamps in the south-west are as treacherous as they are fertile. The eastern Pearl Coast is known for its abundant resources, with many pearl fisheries providing vast wealth to the rulers of the region. The climate of Arabia ranges from hot and dry in the south-west to humid and marshy in the east, with the north experiencing a more temperate climate resulting from ample rainfall.
The earliest human civilizations in Arabia emerged in the Fertile Plains around 6000 BCE, and the region maintained a rich history of trade and cultural exchange with its neighbors. The ancient city of Qarah, the first capital of the Sabean Empire, became an important center of commerce, culture, and religion, with several notable temples dedicated to the Triad of the Sands. During the Bronze Age, Arabia witnessed waves of migrations from other parts of the ancient Near East, including the Hurrians, Canaanites, and Aramaeans, resulting in diverse cultural and religious traditions. The 1st millennium BCE saw the rise of several city-states as the Sabean Empire fragmented, leading to periods of political instability and intense competition for resources.
Arabia was typically divided into numerous city-states or petty kingdoms that were either directly governed by a ruling dynasty or under the influence of more powerful states. The political landscape was characterized by frequent alliances and rivalries, and the struggle for dominance was reflected in the ever-changing network of alliances and balances of power. While the society was deeply stratified, with nobility and commoners holding distinct social status and privileges, it was also characterized by a degree of social mobility and interdependence between different social groups.
The economy of Arabia was dominated by the Spice Trade, with many city-states minting their own coins and participating in local and long-distance trade networks. The mountainous terrains of the northern part of the region offered a unique opportunity for north-south trade, and many goods, including precious gems, metals, textiles, and even animals, passed through Arabia en route to their destinations across Asia, Europe, and Africa. Arabian traders were famous for their skills in balancing accounts and managing profitable businesses, with many family-run trading empires flourishing during this period.
Arabia was home to numerous distinct religions, some inspired by the major religions in our world but with noticeable differences. Among the most important faiths were the Circle of the Sun, the Triad of the Sands, Silent Ones, and the Cult of the Hidden. Each religion had its unique practices, beliefs, and mythologies, which profoundly influenced the various aspects of Arabian society, including art, architecture, and literature. The region also saw a rich intellectual and philosophical tradition with famous philosophers and scholars like Thalliv, Shurah, and Nuzaar.
Arabia was dotted with numerous cities, each with its unique appeal and characteristics. Some of the most famous city-states included Qarah, Jabr, Riq, and Hadram - each city was renowned for its distinct architecture, culture, and historical significance. Apart from cities, Arabia was also home to several famous landmarks, including Jabirah, the Great Mahzan, Talif, the Crocodile Swamps, and the Pearl Coast. The region also housed several religious centers, with famous temples dedicated to the various religious traditions in the region.
