Egypt Fact sheet

Egypt, officially known as the Arab Republic of Egypt, is a country located in North Africa. It is bordered by Libya to the west, Sudan to the south, Israel and the Gaza Strip to the east, and the Mediterranean Sea to the north. Here are some key facts about Egypt:

• Capital city: Cairo
• Population: Approximately 102 million people (as of 2021)
• Language: Arabic is the official language, but English and French are also widely spoken.
• Currency: Egyptian pound (EGP)
• Government: Presidential republic
• Head of State: President Abdel Fattah el-Sisi
• Major industries: Oil and gas, tourism, agriculture, and textiles
• Famous landmarks: The Pyramids of Giza, the Great Sphinx, the Nile River, the Valley of the Kings, and the Temple of Karnak.
• Religion: Islam is the dominant religion in Egypt, with about 90% of the population adhering to the Sunni branch. Christianity is the second-largest religion.
• Climate: Egypt has a hot desert climate, with very little rainfall and high temperatures year-round. The summer months (June-August) can be extremely hot, while the winter months (December-February) are milder but still warm.
• Time zone: Eastern European Time (EET) UTC+2. During daylight saving time, it changes to Eastern European Summer Time (EEST) UTC+3.

 

Egypt is a predominantly Muslim country, and although it is relatively liberal compared to other Muslim countries, it is still important to be respectful of local customs and traditions when it comes to dress. Here are some general guidelines to follow:

1. Dress modestly: It is important to dress modestly, especially if you are visiting religious sites or conservative areas. For women, this means covering your shoulders and knees, and avoiding tight or revealing clothing. For men, shorts and sleeveless shirts are not recommended.
2. Remove shoes: When entering mosques or some homes, you will be required to remove your shoes. It is important to wear socks or bring a pair with you to avoid going barefoot.
3. Cover your head: Women may be required to cover their heads when visiting mosques or other religious sites. It is a good idea to bring a scarf or shawl with you to cover your head if needed.
4. Beachwear: It is acceptable to wear swimwear at the beach or by the pool, but it is not appropriate to wear revealing or skimpy clothing in other public areas.
5. Business attire: If you are conducting business in Egypt, it is important to dress professionally. Men should wear suits and ties, while women should wear conservative business attire.

Overall, it is important to be respectful of local customs and traditions when it comes to dress in Egypt. By dressing modestly and appropriately, you will show respect for the local culture and make a positive impression on the people you meet.