Living in Egypt

Considered a cradle of civilization, Egypt saw some of the earliest developments in writing, agriculture, urbanization, organized religion, and central government.

The nation boasts a long and rich history stretching back at least six millennia and is home to seven UNESCO World Heritage sites, among which are the Great Pyramids of Giza and Ancient Thebes, the former capital of Egypt. Along with the Great Sphinx of Giza, one of the world’s most colossal sculptures, and other ancient landmarks, the country’s extensive archaeological and cultural history continues to draw people from across the world, contributing to a vibrant tourism industry.

The Arab Republic of Egypt benefits from its strategic location spanning Northwestern Africa and Southwestern Asia, creating an ideal environment for a thriving global trade, placing among the largest export markets for goods and services in the Middle East. The transcontinental nation links the continents of Africa and Asia via a land bridge formed by the Sinai Peninsula, making Egypt an attractive gateway to global markets for investors.

The country is also influenced by the surrounding nations — Libya to the west, Sudan to the south, and Israel and Saudi Arabia to the East. With the Mediterranean Sea forming its northern border, Egypt has close connections to mainland Europe, which further adds to the country’s potential as a dynamic investment hub in the region.

In efforts to improve future global integration, the government has recently introduced teaching English in schools as mandatory.

Trade and economy

Capital city Cairo, which is the largest urban agglomeration on the African continent, is an essential communication hub for world air routes. It is also the second-wealthiest city in Africa, according to the Africa Wealth Report 2023, with the country hosting the most resident billionaires on the continent.

The Suez Canal, which is owned by the Egyptian government, is a major link between the Mediterranean Sea and the Red Sea and serves as an entry port for the import of goods from Asia.

Agriculture is a key sector of the Egyptian economy, followed by the manufacturing, energy, and services industries.

The bilateral EU–Egypt Association Agreement has been in place since 2004 and ensures free trade between the two parties, which in turn fosters the mutually beneficial investment opportunities now available.

Moreover, the application of the macroeconomic reforms it completed as part of a three-year, USD 12 billion International Monetary Fund program from 2016 to 2019 contributed to Egypt being one of the fastest growing emerging markets before the Covid pandemic.

With the support of the World Bank, the country is pursuing a national program called the ‘Egypt Vision 2030’. Its goals offer plenty of opportunities for investment, including growing the knowledge economy, improving digital transformation, encouraging innovation, developing the small and medium enterprises sector, and encouraging entrepreneurship.