Country Profile: Egypt
Egypt, located in Northern Africa, is bordered by the Mediterranean Sea and the Red Sea. Its rich history dates back to around 3200 B.C., with a civilization that has experienced various rulers, from ancient dynasties to modern governance. As of 2024, Egypt has a population of approximately 111 million, making it the largest in the Arab world. The economy is Africa's second-largest, characterized by a dependency on the Nile River for agriculture and a mix of industries including tourism and petroleum. The political landscape has been shaped by recent historical events, particularly the Arab Spring, leading to the current presidential republic under President Abdel Fattah El-Sisi.
Geography
Egypt features a vast desert terrain, predominantly consisting of a plateau interrupted by the Nile River valley and delta. The country has a total area of approximately 1,001,450 sq km, of which only 4.1% is used for agriculture, emphasizing its limited arable land. With coastlines along the Mediterranean and Red Seas, it also controls the strategic Suez Canal.
- 95% of the population lives within 20 km of the Nile River.
- Highest point: Mount Catherine at 2,629 m; lowest point: Qattara Depression at -133 m.
- Natural resources include petroleum, natural gas, and various minerals.
People and Society
Egypt's population is projected at 111,247,248 in 2024, with a median age of 24.4 years. The nation is ethnically homogeneous, with 99.7% Egyptian, promoting a dominant Arabic culture and Islamic religion (predominantly Sunni). Despite high literacy rates, social issues persist, including a significant youth unemployment rate of 18.7%.
- 43.1% of the population is urbanized (2023).
- Life expectancy stands at 75 years.
- Birth rate: 19.5 births/1,000 population (2024).
Economy
Egypt's economy, the second largest in Africa, is characterized by efforts to diversify its markets and improve its fiscal accounts. In 2024, the GDP is estimated at $1.958 trillion (PPP) with a per capita GDP of $16,800. The economy is composed of 48.9% services, 32.6% industry, and 13.7% agriculture, highlighting its multifaceted nature.
- Inflation rate expected at 28.3% (2024).
- Unemployment rate forecasted at 7.2% (2024).
- Approximately 29.7% of the population was under the poverty line in 2019.
Government
Egypt operates as a presidential republic with a bicameral legislature. The current president, Abdel Fattah El-Sisi, has been in office since June 2014. The country has undergone significant political changes, particularly following the Arab Spring, resulting in a new constitution approved in 2014.
- The legislative body includes the House of Representatives (596 seats) and the Senate (300 seats).
- Voting is compulsory for citizens at 18 years of age.
- The most recent presidential election was held in December 2023, where El-Sisi was re-elected.
Military and Security
Egypt maintains a robust military presence, with approximately 450,000 active personnel as of 2025. The Egyptian Armed Forces play a significant role in both national defense and internal security, particularly in combating terrorist groups in the Sinai Peninsula.
- Military expenditure is estimated at 0.8% of GDP (2024).
- Key military operations include missions related to regional stability and counterterrorism.
Energy
Egypt has achieved 100% electricity access for its population, with a total generating capacity of 59.68 million kW. The energy mix relies heavily on fossil fuels, with significant contributions from hydroelectric sources due to the Nile.
- Total petroleum production is 667,000 bbl/day (2023).
- Proven natural gas reserves are estimated at 1.784 trillion cubic meters (2021).
Environment
Egypt faces numerous environmental challenges, including resource strain due to rapid population growth, soil salination, and water pollution. The country is a signatory to various international environmental agreements aimed at addressing these pressing issues.
- 4.1% of land is used for agriculture (2022).
- Total renewable water resources amount to 57.5 billion cubic meters (2020).
Transportation
Egypt boasts a well-developed transportation infrastructure, including 73 airports and a railway system spanning 5,085 km. Major ports facilitate maritime trade, supported by a significant merchant marine fleet of 441 vessels.
- The rail system is entirely standard gauge.
- Civil aircraft registration code: SU.
Communications
The communications landscape in Egypt features a mix of state-run and private media. As of 2023, there are approximately 106 million mobile cellular subscriptions, ensuring widespread access to communication.
- 73% of the population are internet users (2023).
- Fixed broadband subscriptions total 13.6 million (2023).
Key Metrics
| Metric | Value | Note |
|---|---|---|
| Population | 111,247,248 | 2024 estimate |
| Area | 1,001,450 sq km | Total area |
| GDP (PPP) | $1.958 trillion | 2024 estimate |
| GDP per capita | $16,800 | 2024 estimate |
| Inflation Rate | 28.3% | 2024 estimate |
| Unemployment Rate | 7.2% | 2024 estimate |
| Life Expectancy at Birth | 75 years | 2024 estimate |
| Birth Rate | 19.5 births/1,000 population | 2024 estimate |
| Urban Population | 43.1% | 2023 estimate |
| Military Personnel | 450,000 | Active forces projected for 2025 |
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