This document discusses the cultural characteristics of North Africa and Southwest Asia. It notes that the region is experiencing rapid urbanization due to oil industries, while rural areas maintain traditional nomadic and farming lifestyles. The population is generally young and unevenly distributed based on resources. Multiple languages are spoken, including Arabic, Turkish, Farsi and Hebrew. The major religions of Judaism, Christianity and Islam originated in the region and have influenced the art including stained glass, tiles, calligraphy and mosaics. Important cities are described as centers of trade, culture and religion.