Kingdoms in the World
In 2023, the world is home to 43 sovereign states that are currently governed by a monarch as the head of state. Among these nations, there are 13 located in Asia, 12 in Europe, 9 in the Americas, 6 in Oceania, and 3 in Africa. This distribution highlights the global presence of monarchies across different continents, showcasing their continued relevance and influence in diverse regions of the world.
In 2023, the following is a comprehensive list of the top 10 kingdoms worldwide, encompassing diverse forms of monarchies including constitutional monarchies, European mixed monarchies, and Muslim monarchies.
The United Kingdom takes the lead, boasting a constitutional monarchy with Queen Elizabeth II at the helm, renowned for its rich history and global influence. Saudi Arabia follows, governed by the Al Saud dynasty, representing an absolute monarchy that wields significant power in the Middle East due to its substantial oil reserves.
In this article, we will discuss in detail about the top 10 kingdoms in the world as of 2023. Hence, we suggest you to go through the article completely for a clear knowledge of the subject.
Top 10 Kingdoms in the World 2023
Here is the list of the top 10 kingdoms in the world as of 2023:
S.No. |
Kingdoms |
Capital |
|
1 |
United Kingdom of Great Britain & Northern Ireland |
London |
|
2 |
Kingdom of Saudi Arabia |
Riyadh |
|
3 |
State of Japan |
Tokyo |
|
4 |
Federation of Malaysia |
Putrajaya |
|
5 |
Kingdom of Spain |
Madrid |
|
6 |
United Arab Emirates |
Abu Dhabi |
|
7 |
Kingdom of Sweden |
Stockholm |
|
8 |
Kingdom of Thailand |
Bangkok |
|
9 |
State of Kuwait |
Kuwait City |
|
10 |
Kingdom of Bhutan |
Thimphu |
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1. United Kingdom of Great Britain & Northern Ireland (London)
The United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland, often referred to as the UK or Britain, is a country located in Northwestern Europe. Its capital city is London, and the official language is English.
The ethnic composition of the UK is diverse, with the majority of the population identifying as White (87.1%). Other significant ethnic groups include Asian (7.0%), Black (3.0%), Mixed (2.0%), and Other (0.9%).
In terms of religion, Christianity is the largest religious affiliation in the UK, accounting for 59.5% of the population. However, there is a significant portion of the population (25.7%) that identifies as having no religion. Other religions, such as Islam, Hinduism, Sikhism, Judaism, Buddhism, and others, are also practiced by various communities in the country.
The United Kingdom has a total area of 242,495 square kilometers and consists of four countries: England, Scotland, Wales, and Northern Ireland. These countries have distinct identities, cultures, and legal systems while sharing a common history and political framework.
The head of state is Queen Elizabeth II, who has been reigning since 1952. However, the monarch’s role is primarily ceremonial and symbolic, with limited political power. The day-to-day governance of the country is carried out by the Prime Minister, who is currently Boris Johnson.
London, the capital city of the UK, is a global financial center, renowned for its cultural diversity, historical landmarks, and vibrant arts scene. It serves as a hub for commerce, finance, and tourism, attracting millions of visitors each year.
2. Kingdom of Saudi Arabia (Riyadh)
The Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, located in the Middle East, is a significant country known for its rich history, cultural heritage, and economic influence. Riyadh serves as the capital city, and the official language is Arabic.
The majority of the population in Saudi Arabia is of Arab ethnicity, comprising around 90% of the total. There is also a significant Afro-Arab minority, making up approximately 10% of the population.
Islam is the predominant religion in Saudi Arabia, with approximately 93% of the population identifying as Muslims. The country is known as the birthplace of Islam and is home to the two holiest cities in Islam, Mecca and Medina. While Islam is the dominant religion, there are also small communities of Christians, Hindus, Buddhists, and individuals with no religious affiliation.
With a total area of 2,149,690 square kilometers, Saudi Arabia is the fifth-largest country in Asia and the second-largest in the Arab world. It is characterized by vast deserts, including the Arabian Desert, as well as coastal areas along the Red Sea and the Arabian Gulf.
Saudi Arabia is a unitary Islamic absolute monarchy, where the political system is governed by Islamic principles. The country is ruled by King Salman bin Abdulaziz, who assumed the throne in 2015. The Crown Prince, Mohammed bin Salman, plays a significant role in the government and is considered the second in line to the throne.
The economy of Saudi Arabia is the largest in the Middle East and the eighteenth largest in the world. It is heavily reliant on the petroleum industry, as the country possesses significant oil reserves. Saudi Arabia has been implementing economic diversification efforts to reduce its dependence on oil and promote sectors such as tourism, entertainment, and renewable energy.
3. State of Japan (Tokyo)
The State of Japan, located in East Asia, is known for its rich cultural heritage, technological advancements, and breathtaking natural beauty. Tokyo serves as its capital city, and the official language is Japanese.
Shinto is the indigenous religion of Japan, deeply ingrained in the country’s culture and traditions. Approximately 84% to 96% of the population identifies with Shinto beliefs and practices. Other religions, such as Buddhism and Christianity, are also followed by smaller segments of the population.
With a total area of 377,975 square kilometers, Japan consists of four main islands (Honshu, Hokkaido, Kyushu, and Shikoku) and numerous smaller islands. The country boasts diverse landscapes, including mountains, forests, hot springs, and picturesque coastlines.
Japan is a constitutional monarchy under the Imperial House of Japan. The power of the emperor is limited to a ceremonial role, representing the symbol of national unity and continuity. The current emperor is Naruhito, who ascended to the Chrysanthemum Throne in 2019, succeeding his father, Emperor Akihito.
The head of government in Japan is the Prime Minister, who holds executive power and is appointed by the Emperor based on the political landscape. The current Prime Minister is Fumio Kishida, leading the government in decision-making and policy implementation.
Japan has a population of approximately 125,440,000 people. The country has a highly developed economy and is known for its technological innovations, automotive industry, electronics, and exports of various products.
4. Federation of Malaysia (Putrajaya)
The Federation of Malaysia, located in Southeast Asia, is a diverse and multicultural country known for its rich heritage and natural beauty. The administrative capital is Putrajaya, while Kuala Lumpur serves as the largest city. The official language of Malaysia is Malaysian.
Malaysia is home to a diverse ethnic composition. The largest ethnic group is Bumiputera, comprising approximately 69.7% of the population. The Chinese community makes up about 22.9%, followed by the Indian community at 6.6%. Other ethnic groups collectively account for 0.8% of the population.
Islam is the official religion of Malaysia, with about 61.3% of the population practicing it. Buddhism, Christianity, Hinduism, Chinese folk religions, and other faiths are also prevalent, reflecting the multicultural nature of the country.
With a total area of 330,803 square kilometers, Malaysia is known for its diverse landscapes, including tropical rainforests, beautiful beaches, and towering mountains.
Malaysia follows a unique system where nine Malay sultans take turns serving as the King of Malaysia for a five-year term. The current king is Sultan Abdullah of Pahang, who was elected on January 24, 2019, during a special meeting of the Conference of Rulers. The monarchy holds a ceremonial role in the country’s governance.
The government of Malaysia is a constitutional monarchy with a parliamentary system. The Prime Minister, Ismail Sabri Yaakob, is the head of government and holds executive power. The country has a multi-party political system, and general elections are held regularly to determine the composition of the Parliament.
Malaysia gained independence from the United Kingdom in 1957 and took the name “Federation of Malaya.” Over time, the federation expanded to include additional territories and became the Federation of Malaysia. The country has achieved significant economic growth and development, with sectors such as manufacturing, tourism, and palm oil production playing vital roles in its economy.
5. Kingdom of Spain (Madrid)
The majority of the population in Spain is of Spanish ethnicity, accounting for approximately 89% of the total. The remaining 11% includes various ethnic minorities and immigrant communities from different parts of the world, contributing to Spain’s cultural diversity.
Roman Catholicism is the predominant religion in Spain, with around 69.7% of the population identifying as Catholics. Islam, atheism, Protestantism, and other religions make up the remaining religious affiliations.
With a total area of 505,990 square kilometers, Spain is the fourth-largest country in Europe. It is known for its varied geography, including stunning coastlines, mountain ranges like the Pyrenees and Sierra Nevada, and vast plains such as the Meseta Central.
The political system of Spain is a constitutional monarchy, where the king serves as the head of state. Currently, King Felipe VI holds this position. The prime minister, currently Pedro Sánchez, is the head of government, responsible for the administration of the country. Spain has a multi-party system, and the government is formed through democratic elections.
Spain is renowned for its rich cultural heritage, including world-famous art, literature, and architecture. It has given birth to renowned artists like Pablo Picasso, Salvador Dalí, and writers like Miguel de Cervantes. The country also hosts numerous festivals, such as the Running of the Bulls in Pamplona and La Tomatina in Buñol, which attract tourists from around the world.
Spain’s economy is diverse, with sectors such as tourism, manufacturing, agriculture, and services contributing significantly to its GDP. The country is known for its culinary delights, including tapas, paella, and sangria.
6. United Arab Emirates (Abu Dhabi)
The United Arab Emirates (UAE) is a federation of seven emirates located in the Arabian Peninsula. Abu Dhabi serves as its capital city. The official languages of the UAE are Arabic and English. The country is known for its diverse ethnic makeup, rich cultural heritage, and significant contributions to the global economy.
The UAE is home to a diverse population, with the largest ethnic group being South Asians, representing approximately 59.4% of the population. Emirati Arabs make up around 11.6%, followed by Egyptians at 10.2%. Filipinos and other ethnic groups account for the remaining 19.8%.
Islam is the predominant religion in the UAE, with approximately 76.0% of the population identifying as Muslims. Christianity, Hinduism, Buddhism, and other religions are also practiced, representing the remaining 24% of the population.
Covering a total area of 83,600 square kilometers, the UAE is a relatively small country in terms of landmass. However, it has become a global hub for business, tourism, and innovation. The UAE is known for its impressive infrastructure, modern cities, and iconic landmarks, such as the Burj Khalifa in Dubai.
The political system of the UAE is based on an elective monarchy. The country is a federation composed of seven emirates: Abu Dhabi, Ajman, Dubai, Fujairah, Ras Al Khaimah, Sharjah, and Umm Al Quwain. The head of the state is Sheik Khalifa, Emir of Abu Dhabi, who serves as the president of the UAE. Crown Prince Mohammed is next in line to succeed as the future leader.
Abu Dhabi, the capital of the UAE, is also the largest and wealthiest emirate. It plays a significant role in shaping the country’s policies and driving its economy. Each emirate has its own ruler and local government, while a federal government oversees matters of national importance.
7. Kingdom of Sweden (Stockholm)
The Kingdom of Sweden, located in Northern Europe, is known for its progressive society, beautiful landscapes, and high standard of living. Stockholm serves as its capital city, and the official language is Swedish. Sweden follows a unitary parliamentary constitutional monarchy system, making it one of the most developed kingdoms globally.
The majority of the population in Sweden practices Christianity, representing about 66.8% of the population. A significant portion, approximately 27%, identifies as having no religion, while Islam comprises 5% of the population. Other religious beliefs make up the remaining 1.2%.
Covering a total area of 450,295 square kilometers, Sweden is the largest country in Northern Europe. It boasts diverse landscapes, including forests, lakes, and coastal regions, as well as a rich cultural heritage.
Sweden’s political system is characterized by a unitary parliamentary structure. The country’s legislative body is known as the Riksdag, which is responsible for enacting laws and overseeing the government’s work. The executive power lies with the government, headed by the prime minister, who is currently Magdalena Andersson.
King Carl XVI Gustaf serves as the head of state in Sweden. However, his role is largely ceremonial and representative, as outlined in the 1974 instrument of Government. The king does not possess any political power, and the governance of the country is primarily carried out by elected officials and institutions.
Sweden is renowned for its high standards of living, social welfare system, and commitment to sustainability. The country consistently ranks highly in various global indices measuring factors such as education, healthcare, gender equality, and environmental protection.
8. Kingdom of Thailand (Bangkok)
The Kingdom of Thailand, historically known as Siam, is a Southeast Asian nation with a rich cultural heritage. Its capital city is Bangkok, and the official language is Thai. Thailand is known for its diverse ethnic makeup, prevalent religion, and unique political system.
The majority ethnic group in Thailand is the Thai people, constituting approximately 86% of the population. The Malay community makes up around 4% of the population, followed by the Khmer and other minority groups comprising the remaining 10%.
Buddhism is the predominant religion in Thailand, with approximately 93.5% of the population practicing this faith. Islam is the second-largest religion, followed by 5.4% of Thais. Christianity, Hinduism, and other religions make up smaller percentages of the population, while a small number identify as having no religion.
Spanning an area of 513,120 square kilometers, Thailand is a relatively large country in Southeast Asia. It is known for its diverse landscapes, including lush mountains, tropical beaches, and bustling cities.
Thailand’s political system is a constitutional monarchy, where a hereditary monarch serves as the head of state. The current king is Rama X, also known as Vajiralongkorn. The king holds the title of the head of the Armed Forces and is required to be a Buddhist and defender of the faith. It is important to note that Thailand has strict laws regarding lese majeste, which protect the monarchy from defamation or insult.
The prime minister of Thailand is Prayut Chan-o-cha, who leads the government and is responsible for the administration of the country. Thailand has experienced periods of political stability and occasional political changes throughout its history.
9. State of Kuwait (Kuwait City)
The State of Kuwait, located in the Arabian Peninsula, is a small country with a rich history and a vibrant culture. Its capital city is Kuwait City, and the official language is Arabic. Kuwait is known for its political system, demographics, and the influence of Islam in its society.
Kuwait has a diverse population, with Arabs comprising the majority at 57.8%. The Asian community represents 40.3% of the population, while Africans and other ethnic groups make up the remaining 1.9%. This multicultural makeup contributes to the country’s dynamic and cosmopolitan atmosphere.
The predominant religion in Kuwait is Islam, with approximately 74.6% of the population practicing the faith. Christianity is the second-largest religion, followed by 18.2% of Kuwaitis, and there are also other religious communities comprising 7.2% of the population.
Covering a total area of 17,818 square kilometers, Kuwait is a relatively small country. Despite its size, Kuwait possesses significant oil reserves, which have played a crucial role in its economic development and prosperity.
Kuwait’s political system is characterized as a unitary parliamentary semi-constitutional monarchy. It is often referred to as an “anocracy” due to a combination of monarchical and parliamentary elements. According to a report by Freedom House, Kuwait is classified as “partly free” in terms of political freedom and civil liberties.
10. Kingdom of Bhutan (Thimphu)
Bhutan, officially known as the Kingdom of Bhutan, is a small landlocked country located in the Eastern Himalayas. Its capital city is Thimphu, and the official language is Dzongkha. With a population of approximately 754,388 people, Bhutan is known for its unique political system and rich cultural heritage.
The political structure of Bhutan is based on a constitutional monarchy with a parliamentary form of government. The head of state is the Druk Gyalpo, also known as the Dragon King. Currently, Jigme Khesar Namgyel Wangchuck holds this title. In 2008, Bhutan underwent significant reforms, transitioning towards a more democratic system.
One notable aspect of Bhutan’s governance is the increasing representation of minorities in the government. Since the reforms, there has been a greater emphasis on including minority groups in the country’s political processes. This inclusivity is evident in the composition of the cabinet, parliament, and local government.
Bhutan is renowned for its commitment to preserving its cultural and religious heritage. Buddhism is the predominant religion, followed by approximately 74.8% of the population. Hinduism is the second-largest religion, practiced by 22.6% of Bhutanese people. Additionally, there are smaller communities adhering to the Bon or Folk tradition, Christianity, Islam, and other faiths.
No.1 Kingdom in the World
The United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland has a total area of 242,495 square kilometers. This includes the mainland of Great Britain, which comprises England, Scotland, and Wales, as well as the northeastern part of the island of Ireland and various smaller islands within the British Isles.
The mainland of Great Britain is the largest component of the United Kingdom’s land area, covering approximately 229,848 square kilometers. England is the largest country in terms of land area, followed by Scotland and Wales.
Northern Ireland, located in the northeastern part of the island of Ireland, occupies a smaller portion of the total area. It covers approximately 13,627 square kilometers.
The United Kingdom’s territory also includes various smaller islands, such as the Isle of Man, the Channel Islands (Jersey, Guernsey, and the smaller islands surrounding them), and numerous other islands in the British Isles.
Other Popular Kingdoms in the World
There are several other popular kingdoms in the world. Here are a few examples:
Kingdom of Saudi Arabia: The Kingdom of Saudi Arabia is a prominent kingdom in the Middle East and is known for its vast oil reserves and Islamic cultural heritage. It is an absolute monarchy with King Salman bin Abdulaziz as the current ruler.
Kingdom of Morocco: The Kingdom of Morocco is located in North Africa and is known for its rich history, diverse culture, and beautiful landscapes. King Mohammed VI is the current monarch of Morocco, and the country has a constitutional monarchy system.
Kingdom of the Netherlands: The Kingdom of the Netherlands consists of four countries: the Netherlands, Aruba, Curaçao, and Sint Maarten. King Willem-Alexander is the current monarch, and the country has a parliamentary constitutional monarchy system.
Hashemite Kingdom of Jordan: Jordan is a kingdom in the Middle East known for its historical sites, including the ancient city of Petra. King Abdullah II is the reigning monarch, and Jordan has a constitutional monarchy system.
Kingdom of Bahrain: Bahrain is a small island country in the Persian Gulf known for its modern infrastructure and financial sector. King Hamad bin Isa Al Khalifa is the current monarch, and Bahrain has a constitutional monarchy system.
Kingdom of Belgium: Belgium is a country located in Western Europe and is known for its multicultural society and historical landmarks. King Philippe is the current monarch, and Belgium has a constitutional monarchy system.
Kingdom of Bhutan: Bhutan is a landlocked country in South Asia known for its unique approach to measuring national happiness and preserving its cultural heritage. King Jigme Khesar Namgyel Wangchuck is the reigning monarch, and Bhutan has a constitutional monarchy system.
These are just a few examples of popular kingdoms around the world, each with its own unique history, culture, and political system.
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