10 Smallest Countries in Asia by Area

TEMPO.CO, Jakarta - As the world’s largest and most populous continent, Asia is a land rich in diversity. From its people and cultures to its cuisine and geography, the continent offers a vast range of contrasts—including country sizes.

While giants like Russia and China stand firm with an area of over nine million square kilometers, some of the smallest countries in Asia span less than 18,000 square kilometers.

List of the Smallest Countries in Asia

World Atlas and Jagran Josh both named the Maldives as one of the smallest countries in Asia. Other tiny nations on the list include:

1. Maldives - 300 km2

The Maldives is the smallest country in Asia, made of only 300 square kilometers. Despite its size, the stunning island is famously known for its captivating combination of luxury resorts, crystal-clear waters, and marine biodiversity.

2. Singapore - 716 km2

Spanning around 716 square kilometers, Singapore is a city-state that packs a punch. From futuristic architecture to a rich multicultural heritage, the Lion City blends culture and innovation seamlessly. And don’t let its size fool you, Singapore is widely regarded as one of the most innovative countries in the world. 

3. Bahrain - 765 km2

Located in the Persian Gulf, Bahrain is an island nation best known for its glistening pearls. As noted by Britannica, this archipelago consists of Bahrain Island and some 30 smaller islands, yet still named among the smallest countries in Asia. Less than 50 kilometers bigger than Singapore, Bahrain boasts an area of just 765 square kilometers. 

4. Brunei - 5,765 km2

Ranked among the richest countries in Asia, Brunei is also one of the smallest. The nation is the first to enter four digits in size on the list, measuring approximately 5,765 square kilometers. Brunei is globally renowned for its vast oil and gas reserves, as well as for being one of the world’s few remaining absolute monarchies.

5. Palestine - 6,220 km2

Known as the Holy Land, Palestine is considered sacred by three major religions: Judaism, Christianity, and Islam. Palestine covers just 6,220 square kilometers. Despite conflict, its cities like Bethlehem and Jerusalem (occupied by Israel) are steeped in religious and historical significance.

6. Cyprus - 9,251 km2 

While geographically close to Asia, Cyprus is culturally and politically aligned with Europe. The country encompasses just 9,251 square kilometers—or 5,896 square kilometers excluding Northern Cyprus. A popular tourist destination, Cyprus calls to those seeking to explore ancient ruins, sparkling beaches, and of course, rich Mediterranean culture.

7. Lebanon - 10,452 km2

Located on the eastern Mediterranean coast, Lebanon is a 10,452-square-kilometer country with immense historical and cultural depth. Uniquely, Lebanon presents a contrast of sharing many cultural traits with the Arab world whilst also possessing distinct attributes that set it apart. In the Middle East, this nation has long been a key commercial and cultural center.

8. Qatar - 11,586 km2

Widely known for its abundance of oil and natural gas reserves, Qatar is one of the smallest countries in Asia. In total, Qatar occupies just 11,586 square kilometers, yet still at the forefront when it comes to wealth and innovation.

9. Timor-Leste - 14,874 km2

Also known as East Timor, Timor-Leste gained independence in 2002, making it one of the youngest countries in the world. Situated in Southeast Asia, it is home to rugged mountains, pristine beaches, and a growing economy driven primarily by agriculture and oil. Timor Leste spans 14,874 square kilometers.

10. Kuwait - 17,818 km2

Though small, with an area of 17,818 square kilometers, Kuwait is only slightly larger than the state of Hawaii by area. It’s another heavyweight in oil production and wealth which embraces Arabic-Islamic traditions and a cosmopolitan lifestyle. 

These countries prove that size isn't everything. Many of them play outsized roles in diplomacy, energy production, tourism, and cultural preservation.

Editor’s Choice: 5 Smallest Countries in the World

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