Photo by Toro Tseleng

EGYPT

 Egypt is a country located in the northeastern corner of Africa, famously serving as a bridge between two continents—Africa and Asia—through the Sinai Peninsula.. It is bordered by the Mediterranean Sea to the north, Sudan to the south, Libya to the west, and Israel and the Gaza Strip to the northeast. The country is home to one of the world’s most famous rivers, the Nile, which runs from south to north and has been the lifeblood of Egyptian civilization for thousands of years

The capital city, Cairo, serves as Egypt’s political, economic, and cultural hub. Alexandria, another key city, offers a rich blend of Mediterranean charm and historical significance. The official language is Arabic, but English and French are commonly used in business, education, and tourism. 

Egypt’s history is deeply rooted in its ancient past. Often called the “Cradle of Civilization,” it was home to one of the earliest and most influential civilizations on Earth. The ancient Egyptians built magnificent structures, including the Great Pyramids of Giza, the Sphinx, and the temples of Karnak and Luxor. The country has witnessed the rise and fall of various dynasties, from the Pharaohs to the Greco-Roman period, and later became a key center of Islamic culture after the Arab conquest in the 7th century. 

In the modern era, Egypt gained independence from British rule in 1922, becoming a sovereign monarchy before transitioning into a republic in 1952.

Egypt is a republic with a president serving as both head of state and head of government. The country has a multi-party political system, but power is largely centralized in the presidency. 

Egypt’s economy is one of the largest in Africa and the Middle East, driven by tourism, agriculture, natural gas, and the Suez Canal, a critical global trade route connecting the Mediterranean and the Red Sea. 

 

 

Efforts are ongoing to diversify its economy further through technology, renewable energy, and industrial growth.

Egypt boasts a vibrant cultural heritage influenced by its ancient traditions, Islamic identity, and Mediterranean flair. Its music, literature, film industry, and cuisine are widely appreciated across Africa and the Middle East.  

When it comes to natural and man-made marvels, Egypt is unparalleled. Apart from the Pyramids and the Nile River, the country is home to the White Desert’s surreal limestone formations and the Red Sea’s vibrant coral reefs.

 

 

Other iconic sites include the Valley of the Kings, where ancient pharaohs rest, and the Library of Alexandria, a modern homage to the world’s most legendary centre of knowledge.

Traditional music genres such as Shaabi and classical Arabic music remain popular, while contemporary Egyptian pop is widely influential in the region.

Egyptian cuisine, with its dishes like koshari and ful medames, reflects the warmth and simplicity of its people.

Hidden Insights: Uncovering Egypt 

1. Nile River Cruises: Experience the magic of ancient and modern Egypt while travelling along the world’s longest river.

2. Siwa Oasis: A hidden gem in Egypt’s Western Desert, Siwa boasts natural beauty, hot springs, lush date palm groves, and a unique Berber culture. Home to the ancient Oracle Temple of Amun, which Alexander the Great is said to have visited.

3. White Desert: A surreal landscape in the Western Desert featuring unique, chalk-white rock formations shaped by wind erosion, making it one of Egypt’s most otherworldly sights.

4. The Dahshur Pyramids: Less crowded but equally captivating, these pyramids provide a glimpse into early pyramid construction techniques.

Photo by Mohau Mannathoko

Photo by Toro Tseleng

Capital City: Cairo

Population: 111,247,248

Nationality: Egyptian(s)

Location: Northern Africa, bordering the Mediterranean Sea, between Libya and the Gaza Strip, and the Red Sea north of Sudan, and includes the Asian Sinai Peninsula

Languages: Arabic (official); English and French widely understood by educated classes

Religion: Muslim (predominantly Sunni) 90%, Christian (majority Coptic Orthodox, other Christians include Armenian Apostolic, Catholic, Maronite, Orthodox, and Anglican) 10%

Area Total: 1,001,450 sq km

Egypt Consulate UK
26 South St
London W1k 1DW

Website

www.egyptianconsulate.co.uk/