Egypt

Recently, an earthquake of magnitude 5.4 struck off the coast of Egypt, bringing the country's geographical and tectonic setting into focus.

Geographical Location

Egypt is a transcontinental country located in northeastern Africa, with its Sinai Peninsula extending into Asia. The Sinai Peninsula serves as an important land bridge between Africa and Asia.

Neighbouring Countries

Egypt shares land borders with Libya to the west, Sudan to the south, and Israel and the Gaza Strip to the northeast.

Water Bodies

Egypt has access to several important water bodies. The country has a coastline along the Mediterranean Sea to the north, while the Red Sea and Gulf of Aqaba lie to its east.

Capital

The capital of Egypt is Cairo, located along the Nile River.

Major Geographical Features

Nile River

The Nile River flows through Egypt from south to north and forms the country's most important fertile region. The landscape shows a sharp contrast between the arid deserts and the fertile Nile Valley and Delta.

Climate

Egypt has a predominantly hot and arid desert climate, characterised by high temperatures and very low rainfall over most of the country.

Highest Peak

Mount Catherine (Jabal Katrina) is the highest point in Egypt, reaching approximately 2,642 metres above sea level. It is located in the Sinai Peninsula.

Natural Resources

Egypt possesses important natural resources, including petroleum, natural gas, phosphates and iron ore. The country is also strategically important because of its location and its control over the Suez Canal, a major international maritime route connecting the Mediterranean Sea with the Red Sea.