Egypt has a mystical and timeless appeal that has been attracting travellers from far and wide for many centuries. From the fascinating sights of the Pharaohs, on the banks of the Nile at Luxor, to the glorious beaches of the Red Sea at Sharm El Sheikh, this is a land of great contrast, where ancient and modern life exist side by side.
Past civilisations have left an indelible impression on the landscape creating what today must rank as one of the most spectacular sightseeing destinations in the world. Egypt has clear skies and bright sunshine all year round. English is the most widely spoken language after Arabic. The country offers nature and desert treks, great scuba diving and even golf, fishing and birding expeditions.

1. Low property prices in a rapidly emerging market
2. The Red Sea is one of the best places in the world for diving
3. All year round season
4. High rental demand
5. Low cost of living
6. Direct flights from the UK
7. Egypt is full of history and things to see and do
8. Low taxation
9. Established and expanding tourist market
10. You can see two of the seven wonders of the ancient world

Population: 69,536,644 (July 2001 est.)

Capital: Cairo

Area: 1,001,450 sq km

Coastline: 2450 km

Language: Arabic (official), English and French widely understood by educated classes

Local Currency: Egyptian pound (EGP)

Ethnic Groups: Eastern Hamitic stock (Egyptians, Bedouins, and Berbers) 99%, Greek, Nubian, Armenian, other European (primarily Italian and French) 1%
Life Expectancy: 63.69 years

Major Religion: Muslim (mostly Sunni) 94%, Coptic Christian and other 6%

Government Type: Republic

Independence: 28 February 1922 (from UK)

Legal System: based on English common law, Islamic law, and Napoleonic codes; judicial review by Supreme Court and Council of State (oversees validity of administrative decisions); accepts compulsory ICJ jurisdiction, with reservations

GNI per capita: $3,600 (2000 est.)

Main export: crude oil and petroleum products, cotton, textiles, metal products, chemicals