Palestine is a country in Western Asia, Asia, home to 5.4M people and a history stretching back to 1988 (declaration). From its 40 km (Gaza Strip) coastline to its Arabic-speaking culture, here are the most interesting facts about Palestine you probably didn't know.
A complete overview of Palestine's history, geography, economy and culture — covering everything from population and borders to language, climate and travel.
Jericho, located in the West Bank, is widely considered one of the oldest continuously inhabited cities in the world, with evidence of settlement dating back over 10,000 years.
Palestine is recognised as a sovereign state by 146 of the 193 UN member states, making it one of the most widely recognised non-member observer states.
The Palestinian flag features black, white, green and red — colours shared across many Arab national flags, each representing historical Arab unity.
Olive trees are central to Palestinian culture and agriculture — some olive trees in the region are over 2,000 years old and still bear fruit today.
Palestine declared independence on 15 November 1988 in Algiers, a declaration that was swiftly recognised by dozens of countries around the world.
Palestine is located in Western Asia, Asia, with its capital city in Ramallah.
The population of Palestine is approximately 5.4M, spread across 6,020 km² of territory.
Palestine has a population density of 897/km² — one of the more densely populated countries in the region.
Palestine has a coastline of 40 km (Gaza Strip), giving it access to maritime trade, fishing and coastal tourism.
Palestine shares land borders with 3 countries: Israel, Jordan, Egypt.
The official language of Palestine is Arabic.
Palestine uses the Israeli Shekel / Jordanian Dinar as its official currency.
Palestine gained independence in 1988 (declaration), establishing itself as a sovereign nation in Western Asia.
The total GDP of Palestine is $18.5B, with a GDP per capita of $3,400 — classifying it as a lower-middle-income economy.
Palestine has a mediterranean along coast, arid in east climate, with the best time to visit being March–May, September–November.
Palestine is considered a Budget destination for travellers, with meals averaging $5–12.
Palestine is one of the oldest continuously inhabited regions on Earth, with settlements in Jericho dating back over 10,000 years — making it one of the earliest known human civilisations.
Palestine holds several notable world rankings — here is how it compares globally:
Palestine is home to several remarkable landmarks and destinations that draw visitors from around the world:
Located in Bethlehem, this is one of the oldest continuously operating Christian churches in the world, built over the traditional birthplace of Jesus.
One of the holiest sites in Islam, located in the Old City of Jerusalem. It is the third holiest site in Islam after Mecca and Medina.
One of the oldest cities in the world, Jericho sits in the Jordan Valley and has been inhabited for over 10,000 years.
Palestine is one of the oldest continuously inhabited regions on Earth, with settlements in Jericho dating back over 10,000 years — making it one of the earliest known human civilisations.
The capital of Palestine is Ramallah.
Palestine has a population of approximately 5.4M as of 2026.
The official language of Palestine is Arabic.
Palestine gained independence in 1988 (declaration).
Palestine uses the Israeli Shekel / Jordanian Dinar.
Palestine has a GDP of $18.5B, with a GDP per capita of $3,400.
Palestine is located in Western Asia, Asia.
Safety conditions in Palestine vary by region. Always check your government's official travel advisory before visiting.
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