Western Sahara is a territory in Northern Africa, bordered by the North Atlantic Ocean, Morocco proper, Algeria (Tindouf region), and Mauritania.

Geographic coordinates: 24°30′N 13°00′W / 24.500°N 13.000°W / 24.500; -13.000 The size of Western Sahara, a region located in North Africa, is a critical aspect of its geopolitical and environmental profile.

The arid climate and extensive desert areas define much of its landscape, influencing the lifestyle of its inhabitants and the approaches taken by both local and international actors in addressing the territory's status and development.

Situated in the northwest corner of Africa, it is bordered by Morocco to the north and east, Algeria to the northeast, Mauritania to the southeast, and the Atlantic Ocean to the west.

The region's natural resources, including phosphate deposits and potential offshore oil reserves, add another layer of complexity to the geopolitical stakes associated with its size and geography.

[6] The terrain is mostly low, flat desert with large areas of rocky or sandy surfaces rising to small mountains in south and northeast.