Arctic Nations: Countries Closest to the North Pole

Unlike the South Pole, the North Pole region has permanently inhabited land and established national territory. Eight countries closest to the North Pole have territory within the Arctic Circle, and together they make up the Arctic Council.

The Eight Arctic Nations

• Russia — has by far the longest Arctic coastline and the largest Arctic territory of any nation, fitting for the largest country in the world by area
• Canada — a huge share of its northern territory lies within the Arctic Circle, including much of Nunavut
• United States — via Alaska
• Denmark — via Greenland, an autonomous Danish territory that is itself larger than most countries
• Norway, Sweden, Finland, and Iceland — the remaining Arctic Council members, each with Arctic or near-Arctic territory

See area data for these countries on our Rankings page.

Why the Arctic Matters Strategically

Melting Arctic sea ice has opened new shipping routes and made previously inaccessible oil, gas, and mineral resources more reachable, turning the region into an area of growing strategic competition — particularly between Russia, the US, and other NATO members. Unlike Antarctica, which is protected from resource extraction and military activity under international treaty, the Arctic is sovereign national territory in most areas, governed by each country’s own laws alongside cooperative bodies like the Arctic Council.

Frequently Asked Questions

How many countries have Arctic territory?

Eight countries have territory within the Arctic Circle: Russia, Canada, the United States, Denmark (via Greenland), Norway, Sweden, Finland, and Iceland.

Which country has the most Arctic territory?

Russia has by far the largest Arctic coastline and territory of any nation.

Is the Arctic governed the same way as Antarctica?

No — unlike Antarctica, which is protected under an international treaty that sets aside territorial claims, the Arctic is largely sovereign national territory governed by each bordering country’s own laws.

Compare Arctic nations by area and population using our Compare tool.

Related Reading

• Countries That Don't Use the Metric System
• Countries with the Most UNESCO World Heritage Sites
• Countries with the Most National Parks