Egypt, officially the Arab Republic of Egypt, spans over 1,010,000 square km2, making it one of the largest countries in the region. It’s bordered by the Mediterranean Sea to the north, Israel and the Gaza Strip to the northeast, the Red Sea to the east, Sudan to the south, and Libya to the west.

A Glimpse into History: Egypt is a vibrant and historically rich country straddling both North Africa and Western Asia. Known for its stunning landscapes, from the vast Sahara Desert to the majestic Nile River, and its rich cultural heritage, Egypt is a fascinating place to call home while you work abroad.

With a history that dates back thousands of years, Egypt is famous for its ancient monuments, including the iconic Giza Pyramids and the Sphinx. Cities like Luxor are treasure troves of ancient Egyptian artifacts, offering a unique blend of history and modern life. Egypt’s strategic location also makes it a key player in both Middle Eastern and global geopolitics.

Geography, Environment, & Climate: Egypt is a vast country, covering over 1 million km2 (386,660 square miles), making it the 38th largest in the world. It’s comparable in size to all of Central America, twice the size of Spain, and roughly the same as Texas and California combined.

However, due to its arid climate, most of Egypt’s population is concentrated along the narrow Nile Valley and Delta, with about 99% of people living on just 5.5% of the land. Egypt’s borders include Libya to the west, Sudan to the south, and the Gaza Strip and Israel to the east. Its strategic location makes Egypt a key player in global geopolitics, especially with the Suez Canal connecting the Mediterranean Sea to the Indian Ocean via the Red Sea.

Apart from the fertile Nile Valley, most of Egypt is desert, with vast landscapes that include parts of the Sahara and Libyan deserts. Winds here can create massive sand dunes, sometimes towering over 100 feet (30 meters) high.

Egypt’s climate is predominantly dry, with little rainfall except during the winter months. Summer temperatures typically range between 80°F (27°C) and 90°F (32°C) but can soar to 109°F (43°C) along the Red Sea coast. In winter, temperatures are milder, averaging between 55°F (13°C) and 70°F (21°C).

A steady northwest wind helps keep the temperature down near the Mediterranean coast, but spring brings the Khamaseen, a hot, dry wind from the south that can raise desert temperatures to over 100°F (38°C).

Population: Egypt is home to approximately 114.5 million people, making it one of the most populous countries in Africa and the Middle East.

Currency: The official currency is the Egyptian Pound LE

Living in Egypt as an Expat

Housing:
Choosing where to live in Cairo depends on your lifestyle and family needs. If you’re working downtown, Zamalek and Mohandiseen are popular neighborhoods. Families often prefer El Maadi/Digla for its proximity to international schools, or the gated communities of Katameya and Mirage City.

Renting in Cairo can be pricey, with villas costing around $4,000 per month and flats starting at $2,500. If you’re bringing your own furniture, consider renting an unfurnished space, as furnished rentals often come with outdated or uncomfortable pieces. If you have pets, especially dogs, look for ground-floor flats with private yards, as walking areas are limited.

The Bawaab:
Every building has a bawaab, a caretaker hired by the landlord. The bawaab handles various tasks like cleaning common areas, carrying packages, washing cars, and sometimes even acting as a middleman between you and the landlord.

Getting There and Around:

Airports:
Egypt has several airports, but Cairo, Alexandria, and Sharm el-Sheikh are the primary international entry points. If you’re flying from Europe, direct flights are easy to find. From other continents, it might be cheaper to transit through Europe first.

Visas:
If you haven’t arranged a visa in advance, you can purchase one on arrival for $25. The process is straightforward but expect delays.

Transport:
Egypt offers a variety of transportation options. Public buses connect most cities and towns, though driving in Cairo can be overwhelming. If you plan to explore more remote areas, renting a 4WD is advisable. Trains also serve major cities but be prepared for an experience that might feel a bit dated.