People
The people of Egpyt are 99% Egyptians, Bedouins, and Berbers. The majority of
the Bedouin are still nomadic tribal people living in isolated oases and still
roam through the country's vast desert regions. Most of them have settled in the
Sinai Peninsula and along the Red Sea coast, across from Arabia.
The remaining minority group are made up of Nubians, Armenians as well as
Europeans. The Nubians, who originated from Nuba, are the third main racial
group in Egypt and there were efforts by the government to reallocate them.
However, as a result of these resettlements, most of their ancient culture and
architectural tradition were lost. Some Egyptians can also trace their lineage
to the Romans, Greeks, Turks, Circassians (Mamluks) and even French and English
blood as a result of marriage with the locals.
Language
The official language of Egypt is Arabic. However, the Egyptians uses colloquial
Arabic, which is different from that of Classical Arabic used by the Arab
community. Most of them speak English as well as French as a second language.
Religion
The majority of Egyptians are Muslims. Only less than 10% of the population are
of the Christian faith, with most of them belonging to the Christian Orthodox
faith from the Coptic Church. Fortunately, Muslims and Copts enjoy a peaceful
coexistence in Egypt. Mosques and churches can be found next to each other in
most cities in Egypt. However, intermarriage is strictly forbidden by both
religions.
Egyptian Cuisine
(Click for information)
Egyptian Facts & Statistics--
CIA
Factbook
