The District of Nasr City in Egypt

Nasr City


Nasr City is one of Cairos districts, and is located on the eastern side of the governorate. It was originally an extension of Heliopolis. Nasr City was built in the 1960s, and was commissioned by the late President Gamal Abdel Nasser, who was greatly involved in its planning and the selection of its name. Nasr means victory, and President Abdel Nasser chose this name to commemorate the victory of the 1952 Revolution.

Nasr City is Cairos largest district, encompassing a total of 250 km. It is so large, in fact, that it is even divided further into 10 sub-districts, numbered 1-10. Having been built in the 1960s, Nasr City was planned in a much more modern and easily navigable way. The roads are some of the better ones in Cairo, and the district is built using a grid system that is not common in Egypt, but makes navigating the area much easier.

Nasr City is home to many major institutions, such as the Azhar University, Cairo International Conference Center, Cairo International Stadium, the Unknown Soldier Memorial (honoring soldiers killed in the 1973 October War), and many government buildings, including the grandstand where the late President Anwar Sadat was assassinated and subsequently buried.

Nasr City, being more modern, has a more modern structure as well. In an attempt to make the area relatively self-sufficient, not only were houses, schools, and jobs created, but many shopping complexes were also built. Nasr City has Genena Mall, Tiba Mall, Serag Mall, City Center, and City Stars. These shopping malls often remind one of being back in the United States or Europe, as theyre often crowded and full of shops, City Stars being the largest mall in Egypt.

Besides the large shopping malls, Nasr City has an abundance of restaurants and cafs as well. Often staying open till late at night, these cafs and restaurants are a great getaway for those who wish to enjoy an evening out, without having to make the trek downtown.

Last Updated: June 28th, 2011