Western Sahara
Africa's Last Open Question
Overview
A disputed territory in northwest Africa, mostly controlled by Morocco, with vast desert landscapes, phosphate reserves, and an unresolved independence movement.
Geographic Context
Region
Africa
Subregion
Northern Africa
Land Area
266,000 km²
Capital
El Aaiún
Languages
Berber, Hassaniya, Spanish
Currencies
Algerian dinar (دج), Moroccan dirham (DH), Mauritanian ouguiya (UM)
At a Glance
5
Oyster Score
Composite index
Freedom
9
Security
0
Median Age
32 yrs
Economy & Finance
Society & Governance
International
Frequently Asked Questions
Sources: World Bank | WHO | Freedom House | OECD · Last updated: 2025