Liquid fuels production in Middle Eastern and North African countries. Map of reformulated gasoline areas. Marcellus area spot natural gas trading points. U.S. coalbed methane maps. PDFU.S. Crude Oil, Natural Gas, and Natural Gas Liquids Reserves Summary, 2008 Maps of Selected State Subdivisions. Economically, the Middle East is known for its vast oil reserves. It is also known as the home of three major world religions: Christianity, Islam, and Judaism. Because of its economic, religious, and geographical location, the Middle East has been at the center of many world issues and political affairs. The Middle East is rich with history. The term "Middle East" has led to some confusion over its changing definitions. Most Middle Eastern countries (13 out of 18) are part of the Arab world. The history of the Middle East dates back to ancient times, with the geopolitical importance of the region being recognized for millennia.