The Middle East has a rich history of postage stamps, reflecting its diverse cultures, historical events, leaders, and natural beauty. Many Middle Eastern countries issue stamps featuring Islamic art, historic sites, national leaders, and cultural heritage.

Themes in Middle Eastern Stamps

  1. Islamic Art & Calligraphy

    • Many stamps feature intricate Arabic calligraphy, geometric patterns, and mosque architecture.
    • Example: Saudi Arabia and UAE have stamps with Quranic verses and Islamic motifs.

  2. Historical & Archaeological Sites

    • Stamps showcasing ancient landmarks like:
      • Petra (Jordan)
      • Persepolis (Iran)
      • The Pyramids of Giza (Egypt)
      • Mesopotamian Ruins (Iraq)

  3. National Leaders & Royalty

    • Many Middle Eastern countries have issued stamps featuring kings, presidents, and historical figures:
      • King Faisal & King Salman (Saudi Arabia)
      • Sheikh Zayed (UAE)
      • Saddam Hussein (Iraq, during his rule)
      • The Shah of Iran (before 1979 Revolution)

  4. Religious & Hajj Pilgrimage Stamps

    • Saudi Arabia frequently issues Hajj pilgrimage stamps, featuring Mecca, Medina, and the Kaaba.
    • Iran and other countries have released stamps for Islamic holidays like Eid and Ramadan.

  5. Traditional Culture & Heritage

    • Stamps showcasing Middle Eastern crafts, Bedouin life, camel caravans, and folk traditions.
    • Example: Oman has stamps highlighting traditional Omani daggers (Khanjar) and forts.

  6. Oil & Economic Development

    • Gulf countries (UAE, Kuwait, Bahrain) have issued stamps featuring oil refineries, modern skyscrapers, and trade ports.

  7. Palestine & Middle East Conflict

    • Palestinian stamps highlight Al-Aqsa Mosque, national identity, and political themes.
    • Several countries have issued stamps related to the Arab-Israeli conflict and peace agreements.

Notable Middle Eastern Stamp Issues by Country

  • Saudi Arabia – Islamic pilgrimage, royal family, and desert landscapes.
  • United Arab Emirates (UAE) – Skyscrapers, falconry, and Sheikh Zayed.
  • Iran – Persian culture, ancient sites, and Islamic Revolution themes.
  • Egypt – Pharaohs, pyramids, Suez Canal, and Arab League stamps.
  • Jordan – King Hussein, Petra, and biblical sites.
  • Iraq – Babylon ruins, Saddam Hussein (historical issues), and Mesopotamian heritage.
  • Syria & Lebanon – Historical ruins (Palmyra, Baalbek), Cedar trees, and independence themes.
  • Yemen & Oman – Traditional clothing, daggers, and maritime heritage.
  • Palestine – Al-Aqsa Mosque, political themes, and Palestinian identity.