The seventh edition of Middle East Patterns continues to be the most comprehensive and authoritative geographical study of the region. It examines a wide range of geographic, ethnographic, and political patterns of the Middle East, and explores their relationship with, and effect on, the history, economics and human and social development of the region. The book is divided into two parts: The first covers the region from a topical perspective, and the second provides in-depth country-by-country coverage.

The seventh edition includes new thematic chapters on rural life and urban life and new country chapters covering Libya, Tunisia, Morocco, and Algeria, as well as additional discussions of environmental issues and gender throughout. It has also been updated with the latest data and coverage of events since 2013, including the aftermath of the Arab uprisings, the Libyan and Syrian crises, and the rise of ISIS. With more than 200 photos and maps and pedagogical elements like key point summaries, a glossary, and a newly revamped companion website, this acclaimed book remains the best and most accessible resource for students and general readers who seek to understand the spatial dynamics and geopolitics of the Middle East.