"France is a famous place."

Translation: فَرَنْسا مَكان مَشْهور.

[TMLN2014]

When is the definite article used in country names? For example: العراق، اليمن...

[SoftlyJazzMadrid]

There doesn't seem to be a rule. Perhaps someone else can comment on this. In the meantime, here is a list of definite countries: https://arabicbox.wordpress.com/2015/05/01/when-to-use-the-definite-article-al-with-countries-name/

[wendya1]

VERY useful.
Thanks

[avisarid1]

I don't see anyone complaining here that France is referred to as a place. And I suppose there is no arguing that it's in fact a country...so why do so nany people complain about Palestine called a place? I think all those people are just trying to fight.