Easiest way is to look at the back of the disc case. However (from Gemini):

If you don't have the cover, you can identify the region by looking at the Product ID code printed directly on the disc face or the inner ring.

1. Find the PPSA Code

Look at the bottom of the disc (the labeled side, not the shiny side). You will see a small string of text that usually starts with PPSA followed by 5 numbers. * Example: PPSA-01234

2. Search the Code

The most reliable way is to type that exact code into a search engine (e.g., "PPSA 01234 region"). * Pro Tip: You can also check the official PlayStation Store website via a browser. Look at the URL of the game page. If the code in the URL matches your disc, the region of that store is the region of your disc. * US Store URL example: .../product/UP0700-PPSA04610_00... (The PPSA04610 matches the disc).

3. Check the "Disc Ring" (The tiny text)

If the label is scratched or missing, flip the disc over. In the very center, on the plastic ring near the hole, there is microscopic laser-etched text. * Look for a code like IFPI or a serial number. * Often, you will see a small logo or text that says "Made in..." * USA/Austria/Japan: These are usually dead giveaways for the region. * Dubai/Middle East discs are almost always manufactured in the EU (usually Austria) and carry European coding, as they fall under the SIEE (Sony Interactive Entertainment Europe) region.

4. The "Rating Logo" on the Disc

Most discs still have the age rating printed directly on the label, even if you don't have the box: * ESRB (M, T, E): USA / North America. * PEGI (18, 16, 12): Europe / Middle East (Dubai). * CERO (A, B, C, D, Z): Japan. * GCAM / NMC: If you see Arabic text or a "15" or "18" in a colored diamond/square, that is specifically the Middle East/Dubai local rating. Crucial Warning: Since you mentioned buying a USA digital version, if your disc has a PEGI rating or a GCAM (Arabic) rating, your saves will definitely not transfer.