Egypt’s geographical location leads an important aspect to the maritime transport sector as it overlooks both the Mediterranean and Red Sea, linked by the Suez Canal. The Suez Canal remains a huge asset as it is the main trade route between Europe and Asia, accounting for roughly 7.5% of world sea trade. Any disruption on the narrow passage could cause major delays and cause a spike in transport costs. Most importantly, the Suez Canal is one of the world’s five ‘strategic chokepoints’, defined as narrow sea passages or straits, through which the overwhelming majority of the world’s oil flows. 

Egypt has 40 sea ports, of which 12 are commercial ports; six mining ports; six fishing ports; five marinas; and 10 oil-shipping ports. Among the most important ports are Alexandria, the biggest port in Egypt, and the Port of Dekheila, which is a natural extension to the Port of Alexandria.