The 10 Smallest Countries In Asia By Area

Scattered throughout the largest continent in the world, both in terms of land area and population, are many small countries. Starting with the smallest, the Maldives, which spans just 298 square kilometers, many countries are small enough to drive across in a few hours. Alongside the Maldives, the following nations are the ten smallest on the continent: Singapore, Bahrain, Brunei, Palestine, Cyprus, Lebanon, Qatar, Timor-Leste, and Kuwait. Ranging from 298 to 17,800 square kilometers, the combined area of these countries is still less than that of the United Arab Emirates, which is not even among Asia’s largest countries.

While these are the top ten recognized countries, there are smaller areas in Asia that have not been included in this list. Specifically, Macau and Hong Kong, while being among the smallest, are autonomous regions and not “countries,” hence they have been excluded. Apart from that, each of these ten smallest countries may not shine in area, but they each boast unique geographical, cultural, and historical features worthy of praise.

The Ten Smallest Countries In Asia By Area

1. Maldives (298 km²)

The Maldives is the smallest country in Asia and the ninth-smallest in the world, with a total area of 298 square kilometers (115 sq mi). It is an archipelagic country in the northern Indian Ocean, located southwest of India, comprising around 26 atolls. While the country’s land area is the smallest, it is spread over around 90,000 square kilometres (35,000 sq mi) of the ocean, making it one of the most spatially dispersed.

Despite its small size, the nation is home to over 500,000 people and possesses several unique characteristics. Its highest natural point is only 2.4 meters above sea level, making it the lowest-lying country on Earth. Tourism has played a transformative role in its economy, particularly since the 1970s boom. Today, the Maldives welcomes well over a million visitors annually, drawn by its turquoise waters, white-sand beaches, coral reefs, and luxury island resorts spread across its limited landmass. It is also a hub for water sports, including diving, snorkeling, and surfing.

2. Singapore (734 km²)

Singapore is a small island country in Southeast Asia, comprising one main island and over 60 satellite islands. The nation’s total land area is 734 square kilometres (283 sq mi), although the complexity of the islands and ongoing reclamation make this number somewhat debated. Mainland Singapore is the majority of this area, and is a 30-mile-long landmass home to around six million people according to recent estimates. Surprisingly, in 1965, Singapore was a much smaller nation by most metrics. During this period, the area covered approximately 580-600 square kilometers, resulting in issues related to housing, economics, and land use. Thus, the nation undertook a massive land reclamation project, increasing its area by around 17%, with plans to expand further by 2030.

Economically, Singapore is one of the strongest countries on the continent, often considered one of the “Four Asian Tigers” alongside Hong Kong, South Korea, and Taiwan. It has one of the highest GDP figures in Asia and a market economy ranked among the most competitive in the world. Moreover, its infrastructure development and coastal location make it a tourism hotspot, with nearly 14 million visitors in 2023 alone, and one of the world’s busiest ports plays a central role in global trade.

3. Bahrain (765 km²)

Bahrain is the third-smallest country in Asia, covering approximately 765 square kilometers (295 sq mi). Located in the Persian Gulf, it is an island nation made up of 33 natural islands, along with several artificial ones that have expanded its land area over time. Bahrain sits just off the eastern coast of Saudi Arabia and is connected to it by the 25-kilometer-long (16 mi) King Fahd Causeway, one of the most significant transportation links in the region. Unlike many small nations limited by terrain, Bahrain’s relatively flat landscape is highlighted by Jabal ad Dukhan, its highest point, which rises only about 134 meters above sea level.

While compact in terms of land area, Bahrain is home to around 1.5 million people and has developed into a regional hub of finance, trade, and culture. Once historically tied to pearl diving, its economy today is modern and diversified, with a strong financial services sector complementing its oil and gas industry. Tourism also plays an important role in Bahrain’s identity. The country is home to Qal’at al-Bahrain, a UNESCO World Heritage Site that reflects thousands of years of settlement, while Manama (capital city) offers a blend of modern skyscrapers, historic souks, museums, and vibrant dining and shopping districts.

4. Brunei (5,800 km²)

Brunei, officially known as Brunei Darussalam, is one of Asia’s smallest countries, covering around 5,800 square kilometers (2,240 sq mi). It lies on the northern coast of Borneo in Southeast Asia and is unusual in that it is divided into two separate land sections, both surrounded by the Malaysian state of Sarawak. Much of the country is covered in dense tropical rainforest, while its coastline stretches along the South China Sea, offering mangrove swamps, sandy shores, and river estuaries. Unlike many small nations limited by arid or mountainous conditions, Brunei is richly green and biologically diverse.

Brunei is home to roughly 450,000 people, most of whom live near the capital, Bandar Seri Begawan. The country boasts one of the highest standards of living in Asia, largely driven by its substantial oil and natural gas reserves. Its cultural and architectural heritage is highlighted by landmarks such as the Sultan Omar Ali Saifuddien Mosque, while Ulu Temburong National Park preserves some of the most pristine rainforest in the region, showcasing that even a small country can balance modern development with protected natural environments.

5. Palestine (6,020 km²)

Palestine is a country in West Asia, including East Jerusalem and the Gaza Strip, which are known as the Palestinian Territories. The nation has a total land area of 6,020 square kilometres (2,320 sq mi), with the majority of this area located within the West Bank. The Gaza Strip, while much smaller at around 365 square kilometres, is more populated and was the largest city until recent geopolitical tensions with Israel, the neighboring country on its eastern side. On the west, Palestine has a long coastline with the Mediterranean Sea.

Palestine is home to millions of people and is one of the most historically and culturally significant areas in Asia, with cities such as Jerusalem, Bethlehem, Ramallah, and Gaza carrying deep religious and cultural importance. The region also features remarkable geographical contrasts, including fertile valleys, arid hills, and part of the Dead Sea coastline, which contains the lowest point on Earth at about 430 meters below sea level.

6. Cyprus (9,251 km²)

Cyprus is the sixth-smallest country in Asia by area, covering approximately 9,251 square kilometers (3,572 sq mi), yet it holds a prominent place in the Eastern Mediterranean. It is an island nation located south of Turkey and west of Lebanon, featuring long stretches of coastline, golden beaches, and clear blue waters. Inland, the terrain shifts to rolling plains and the Troodos Mountains, whose highest peak, Mount Olympus, rises to nearly 1,952 meters above sea level. The capital city, Nicosia, sits at the heart of the island and remains a key hub for politics, culture, and the economy.

Cyprus boasts thousands of years of layered history, from ancient Greek settlements to Byzantine, Venetian, and Ottoman influences, which have collectively created a distinct cultural identity. Today, it is renowned for its well-preserved archaeological sites, charming villages, and vibrant urban centers, such as Limassol and Larnaca. These sites also drive tourism, which is one of the strongest sectors in Cyprus’s economy.

7. Lebanon (10,500 km²)

Lebanon covers approximately 10,500 square kilometers (4,050 sq mi), making it Asia’s seventh-smallest country by area. The nation is situated along the eastern Mediterranean coast, characterized by a narrow shoreline, fertile coastal plains, and two parallel mountain ranges. These include Mount Lebanon, whose peaks are often snow-capped in winter. The Bekaa Valley, set between the ranges, is one of the country’s key agricultural areas. On the other hand, Beirut, the capital, sits along the coast and serves as the cultural, economic, and historical heart of the nation.

Despite its size, Lebanon holds an outsized historical and cultural legacy, having been home to the ancient Phoenicians and later influenced by Roman, Arab, Ottoman, and French periods. The country is dotted with UNESCO World Heritage Sites such as Baalbek, Tyre, and Byblos, one of the world’s oldest continuously inhabited cities.

8. Qatar (11,600 km²)

Qatar, officially the State of Qatar, is the eighth-smallest country in Asia by area. It is located in West Asia to the north of Saudi Arabia and is surrounded by the Persian Gulf. The nation has a total area of 11,600 square kilometers (4,480 sq mi), with the majority of this area comprising land. Most of Qatar is dominated by low-lying deserts with minimal elevation changes and an arid environment. However, the country’s economy thrives thanks to its large natural gas reserves and a GDP per capita that ranks within the world’s top ten.

To this end, Qatar is home to approximately 2.8 million people, with the majority residing in the capital city of Doha. Here, a mix of modern infrastructure, vast desert views, and tourist attractions creates a unique atmosphere. Visitors from all over the world come to see landmarks like the National Museum of Qatar or boats in the Gulf’s waters via the Doha Port. Moreover, the nation sees sunshine throughout the year, with winter temperatures averaging around 18.5 °C (65.3 °F) in January.

9. Timor-Leste (14,900 km²)

Timor-Leste, also known as East Timor, covers about 14,900 square kilometers (5,760 sq mi), making it one of the smaller independent countries in Asia. Located in Southeast Asia, it occupies the eastern half of Timor Island, along with smaller surrounding islands such as Atauro and Jaco. Most of the country features mountainous landscapes, with steep highlands, lush valleys, and stretches of tropical forest, while the coast offers quieter beaches and scenic ocean views. In total, the nation has a population of approximately 1.3 million people, with the majority residing along the coastline. Similarly, the capital city, Dili, sits along the northern shoreline and serves as the center of administration, daily life, and commerce.

Although it is one of Asia’s youngest nations, gaining full independence in 2002, Timor-Leste carries deep cultural roots shaped by both indigenous traditions and centuries of Portuguese influence. Its economy is still developing, supported by oil and gas resources, agriculture, and a gradually growing tourism sector.

10. Kuwait (17,800 km²)

Rounding off this list as the tenth-smallest country in Asia, Kuwait is located in West Asia at the head of the Persian Gulf. It covers a total area of about 17,800 square kilometers (6,880 sq mi), most of which is land area bordering Iraq and Saudi Arabia. The country has a predominantly flat desert landscape, characterized by sandy plains and minimal natural vegetation. Kuwait also includes ten islands along its coastline, the largest being Bubiyan Island. As with many countries on this list, most of Kuwait's 4.5 million residents live along the coastline, primarily in Kuwait City, which is also the country's capital.

Despite its small size, Kuwait plays a major role in the region due to its significant oil reserves, which have shaped much of its modern development and economy. The country seamlessly blends modern urban infrastructure with its cultural heritage, as evident in landmarks such as the Kuwait Towers and the Grand Mosque. Its coastline along the Persian Gulf supports trade, leisure, and daily life.

The Smallest Countries In Asia

Despite their small size, these Asian countries each carry remarkable importance in their own way. From island nations surrounded by blue waters to compact states filled with history, culture, and economic strength, they prove that land area does not define significance. Whether known for tourism, finance, heritage, or unique geography, these nations highlight just how diverse Asia truly is, even in its smallest corners.