Egypt Facts

Egypt, a state mainly located in northeastern Africa; also the Sinai Peninsula in southwestern Asia is within Egypt’s borders; 1 million km², 98.4 million residents (2019).Culturally geographically, one usually divides Egypt into Upper Egypt and Lower Egypt. Upper Egypt represents the Nile Valley to the south of Cairo, while Lower Egypt consists of the delta in the north. The capital is Cairo (9.3 million residents, 2019).

Country facts

• Jumhūriyyat Miṣr al-rabArabīiyya / Arab Republic of Egypt
• Country abbreviation: EC
• Area: 1 million km²
• Population (2019): 98.4 million residents
• Capital: Cairo
• Main languages: Arabic
• State: Republic
• Head of State: Abd al-Fattah al-Sisi (President)
• Head of Government: Mostafa Madbouli
• Per capita GDP (2018): US $ 9,771
• GNI per capita (2018): US $ 9,470
• Currency unit: 1 Egyptian pound = 100 piaster
• Country number (telephony): 20
• Currency code: EGP
• Internet domain name: dz
• Time difference compared to Sweden: +1
• National Day: July 23 (Revolution Day, 1952)
• Independence Day: February 28, 1922

Nature

• Land use: agricultural land (3%), other (mainly desert, 97%)
• Highest mountain: Katarina (2,637 m above sea level)
• Longest river: the Nile (6,670 km)

Population

• Population density (2019): 98 residents per km²
• Natural population growth (2019): 1.9%; birthrate 25 ‰, deathrate 6 ‰
• Age structure (2019): 0-14 years (34%), 15-64 (62%), 65- (4%)
• Life expectancy (2019): men 71 years, women 74 years
• Infant mortality (2019): 15 per 1,000 live births
• Population forecast 2050: 158 million residents
• HDI (2017): 0.696 (place 115 of 189)
• Urbanization rate (2019): 43%
• Most populous cities (2019): Cairo (9.3 million residents), Alexandria (5.1 million), Giza (4.2 million)

Business

• Industry’s contribution to GDP (2017): agriculture (12%), industry (34%), service (54%)
• Exports (2017): US $ 23,300 million
• Main export product: crude oil, cotton, textiles
• Main exporting countries: United Arab Emirates, Italy, USA
• Imports (2017): US $ 59,800 million
• Main import products: machinery, food, chemicals
• Main Importing Countries: China, United Arab Emirates, Germany
• Railway network (2014): 5,500 km

Geography

Location and Borders

Egypt is located in the northeastern corner of Africa, with its vast territory extending from the Mediterranean Sea in the north to the Sahara Desert in the south. The country is strategically positioned at the crossroads of Africa and the Middle East, making it a vital political, economic, and cultural bridge between the two regions. To the northeast, Egypt borders the Red Sea, and to the west, it shares a boundary with Libya. The country also has a significant land border with Sudan to the south, while the Suez Canal connects the Mediterranean Sea to the Red Sea, serving as one of the world’s most important maritime trade routes.

Egypt’s geography is dominated by the Nile River, the longest river in the world, which runs from south to north through the heart of the country. The river, with its extensive delta at the northern end, forms the lifeblood of Egyptian agriculture and urban development. The majority of Egypt’s population lives along the Nile Valley and Delta, making these areas the most densely populated regions of the country. Much of the land outside these areas is desert, including the Western Desert, the Eastern Desert, and the Sinai Peninsula, which lies between the Mediterranean Sea and the Red Sea.

Topography and Natural Features

Egypt’s landscape is defined by the contrasting features of the Nile River, the deserts, and the mountains. The Nile River flows northward, dividing the country into two regions: Upper Egypt (southern Egypt) and Lower Egypt (northern Egypt). The Nile Valley, which stretches along the river’s path, is narrow and fertile, providing the majority of Egypt’s agricultural land. The Nile Delta, where the river spreads out before entering the Mediterranean, is a vast area of rich soil that has supported agriculture for thousands of years.

The vast majority of Egypt’s land area consists of deserts, which cover about 94% of the country’s total land area. The Western Desert, which is part of the Sahara, includes the Great Sand Sea and several oasis regions, such as the Siwa Oasis, where small communities have historically survived by utilizing underground water sources. The Eastern Desert, which lies between the Nile and the Red Sea, is more mountainous, with the Red Sea hills and several mineral-rich valleys. Egypt’s Sinai Peninsula, which connects Africa and Asia, is a bridge between the two continents and contains both mountainous regions and desert plains.

The Red Sea, which lies to the east of Egypt, is known for its coral reefs and vibrant marine life, making it an important area for both tourism and fishing. Egypt’s geographical location, with both desert and coastal access, has historically allowed it to control significant trade routes connecting Africa, the Middle East, and Europe.

Climate and Seasonal Variation

Egypt has a predominantly desert climate, characterized by hot, dry summers and mild winters. The climate is classified as arid, with very little rainfall throughout the year, particularly in the Nile Valley and Delta. The coastal areas along the Mediterranean Sea receive slightly more rainfall, but it is still limited, with annual precipitation generally averaging between 30 mm and 200 mm in the coastal regions, and much less in the interior. Rainfall is most concentrated between the months of November and February.

Summers in Egypt are extremely hot, particularly in the desert regions, with temperatures often exceeding 40°C (104°F) in the summer months. In the capital, Cairo, and other urban centers along the Nile Valley, temperatures during the summer months range from 30°C to 40°C (86°F to 104°F), with high humidity levels. In contrast, winters are relatively mild, with temperatures in the Nile Valley ranging from 12°C to 22°C (54°F to 72°F) during the day, and cooler temperatures at night. The Sinai Peninsula and the coastal cities experience cooler temperatures in the winter months, but temperatures rarely drop below 10°C (50°F).

Due to Egypt’s desert climate, the country is susceptible to dust storms and hot winds, especially in the spring. The Khamsin, a hot, dry wind from the Sahara, blows across the country in the spring months and can significantly increase temperatures and reduce visibility.

People

Population and Demographics

Egypt has a population of approximately 104 million people, making it the most populous country in the Arab world and the third-most populous in Africa, after Nigeria and Ethiopia. The country has a relatively young population, with a large proportion of people under the age of 30. The population density is highest in the Nile Delta and the Nile Valley, where the fertile land along the river has supported human settlement for millennia. In contrast, the majority of the country’s vast desert areas remain sparsely populated.

The majority of Egypt’s population is ethnically Arab, with a significant percentage of the population identifying as Egyptian. There are also smaller minority groups, including Nubians, Berbers, and Bedouins. While most Egyptians are ethnically Arab, the country’s long history of foreign rule, including Greek, Roman, Ottoman, and British, has influenced the country’s cultural and demographic landscape.

In terms of religion, Egypt is a predominantly Muslim country, with over 90% of the population adhering to Islam, primarily Sunni Islam. The Christian population, which is mostly Coptic Orthodox, accounts for about 10% of the population, making Egypt the home of one of the oldest Christian communities in the world. The Coptic Church plays a significant role in Egypt’s religious and cultural history, though the Copts have faced challenges in recent years related to religious tolerance and political issues. There are also small Jewish, Baha’i, and other religious communities in Egypt, although their numbers are relatively small.

Languages

Arabic is the official language of Egypt and is spoken by the vast majority of the population. Modern Standard Arabic is used in government, education, and formal media, while Egyptian Arabic, a dialect of spoken Arabic, is used in everyday conversation. Egyptian Arabic is the most widely spoken form of Arabic in the Arab world and has a significant presence in media, film, and television. In addition to Arabic, English is widely spoken, particularly in urban areas and in business contexts. French is also taught in schools and spoken by some, especially in diplomatic and elite circles.

The Coptic language, which is the liturgical language of the Coptic Orthodox Church, is still used in religious ceremonies but is no longer widely spoken by the general population. The Nubian languages, spoken by the Nubian people in southern Egypt and northern Sudan, are also still spoken in certain areas, although their use is diminishing.

Religion

Islam is the dominant religion in Egypt, and the country is known for its rich Islamic heritage, including significant historical sites such as the mosques in Cairo and the famous Al-Azhar University. Islamic culture, including traditions, art, and architecture, has profoundly shaped Egyptian society over the centuries. The country’s mosques, Islamic schools, and monuments reflect this rich religious and cultural heritage.

The Coptic Orthodox Church is the largest Christian denomination in Egypt, and the Copts have been in Egypt since the early Christian period. Coptic Christians have played an important role in Egypt’s history, both religiously and culturally, though they have faced political and social challenges in modern times. Coptic Christians celebrate several important religious holidays, including Christmas and Easter, and their churches and monasteries are major historical and tourist landmarks.

The Egyptian government guarantees freedom of religion in its constitution, but there have been ongoing tensions between religious groups, particularly in relation to the treatment of minority communities, such as Coptic Christians. Despite these tensions, the majority of Egyptians practice a deep sense of religious devotion, and religion plays an integral role in the social and cultural fabric of the nation.

Economy

Overview

Egypt’s economy is one of the largest in Africa and is highly diversified. The country is an important player in the Middle East and North Africa (MENA) region, with significant industries such as petroleum, agriculture, manufacturing, and services contributing to its GDP. The economy has experienced periods of growth and stability, but it has also faced challenges, including inflation, unemployment, and income inequality. The government has pursued various economic reforms and investment strategies to encourage foreign investment, reduce the country’s dependence on oil and gas, and improve the overall business climate.

Agriculture plays an important role in Egypt’s economy, as the Nile Valley and Delta provide fertile soil for growing crops. The service sector, particularly tourism, is also a key part of the economy, though the industry has been affected by political instability and security concerns in recent years. The manufacturing and construction industries are growing as well, especially in sectors such as textiles, cement, and chemicals.

The Egyptian economy is heavily influenced by its oil and gas reserves, which are an important source of export revenue. The country is one of the largest oil producers in Africa, and it has significant natural gas resources. Egypt has also become a key player in the global energy market due to its strategic position as a transit point for oil and natural gas through the Suez Canal.

Agriculture and Natural Resources

Agriculture is a central part of Egypt’s economy, particularly in the Nile Delta and Nile Valley, where the fertile soil supports a variety of crops, including wheat, rice, cotton, and sugarcane. The country is one of the largest producers of cotton in the world, and cotton is an important export product. Other key agricultural products include fruits and vegetables, particularly tomatoes, onions, and citrus fruits.

The Nile River is essential to Egypt’s agriculture, as it provides the water necessary for irrigation. The country’s reliance on the Nile for agriculture has created a strong dependence on the river, and concerns over water scarcity and management are growing. In recent years, the government has pursued efforts to improve irrigation and water conservation techniques, including projects such as the New Delta and reclamation of desert land for agricultural use.

Egypt is also rich in natural resources, including petroleum, natural gas, and minerals. The country is one of the largest oil producers in Africa, and oil extraction and exports play a key role in the national economy. Egypt is also a major natural gas producer, with significant reserves in the Mediterranean Sea. The country has also been exploring new offshore gas fields, which could further increase its energy exports. In addition to energy resources, Egypt has deposits of gold, limestone, and other minerals, which contribute to the country’s mining sector.

Industry and Services

The industrial sector in Egypt is diverse, including the manufacturing of chemicals, textiles, cement, and construction materials. The country is also a significant producer of steel and other metals. The textile industry, which historically played a central role in the country’s economy, remains one of Egypt’s most important manufacturing sectors, and Egypt is known for producing high-quality cotton textiles.

In recent years, the government has sought to boost the industrial sector through economic reforms, attracting foreign investment, and diversifying into new industries such as information technology, automotive manufacturing, and pharmaceuticals. Industrial zones have been developed to encourage growth in manufacturing and export, particularly in the Suez Canal area.

The services sector has grown significantly, with tourism, retail, finance, and telecommunications being key areas of expansion. The tourism industry is one of the largest sources of foreign exchange, and Egypt’s rich history, including the ancient pyramids, temples, and archaeological sites, attracts millions of visitors each year. Despite the challenges posed by political instability and security concerns, the government has worked to improve infrastructure and promote Egypt as a global tourism destination.

Government

Political System

Egypt is a republic with a presidential system of government. The president, who serves as both the head of state and government, holds significant executive powers. The president is elected for a four-year term, with the possibility of re-election, though the position has been marked by political challenges and instability in recent decades. The president is responsible for setting policy, managing the military, and overseeing the executive branch.

The Egyptian parliament is bicameral, consisting of the House of Representatives (lower house) and the Senate (upper house). The House of Representatives has 596 members, elected by the people, and plays a significant role in lawmaking, approving the budget, and providing oversight of the executive branch. The Senate, established in 2020, serves as an advisory body with limited legislative powers.

Egypt’s judiciary is independent, with the Supreme Constitutional Court serving as the highest legal authority. The legal system is based on civil law and influenced by Islamic law in some areas, particularly in matters relating to family law and personal status issues.

Legal System

Egypt’s legal system is based on civil law, which draws its foundation from the Napoleonic Code, with influences from Islamic law (Sharia) in certain aspects, such as personal status and family law. The judicial system consists of various levels of courts, including the ordinary courts, the administrative courts, and the constitutional court. The judiciary is nominally independent, but in practice, the system has faced criticism for its lack of transparency, political influence, and delays in legal processes.

The government has undertaken reforms to modernize the legal system and improve its efficiency. The country has worked to improve business law, intellectual property rights, and other regulatory areas in order to encourage foreign investment. However, concerns about human rights, freedom of expression, and political freedoms remain prevalent in the country’s legal framework.

Foreign Relations

Egypt has long played a central role in Middle Eastern and African geopolitics. The country maintains active diplomatic relations with a wide range of countries, including the United States, Russia, China, and its regional neighbors. Egypt is a member of several international organizations, including the United Nations, the Arab League, and the African Union. The country is also a key player in the Arab world, particularly in its political, economic, and military relations with the Gulf states, as well as its position on Middle Eastern peace processes.

Egypt has a peace treaty with Israel, signed in 1979, and has worked to foster stability in the Middle East. The country has also been an active participant in peacekeeping operations and humanitarian missions in Africa. Its control of the Suez Canal, a key maritime trade route, gives it a central role in global trade, and it has significant ties to the international community in terms of trade, energy, and security.

The government of Egypt has worked to enhance regional ties, particularly with its African neighbors, through both bilateral agreements and multilateral organizations. However, the country also faces challenges in balancing its relationships with the West and its Arab and African counterparts, particularly in the context of regional conflicts and political issues.

Egypt Map