Cairo is the capital city of Egypt and the largest city in the Arab world. Situated on the Nile river in northeastern Egypt, Cairo is among the world's oldest and most historically significant cities. It is the country's economic, transportation, and cultural center. Since ancient times, Cairo has been recognized for influencing other cities globally. The city is renowned for its mesmerizing ancient structures such as the Pyramids of Giza, the Sphinx, and modern architecture that exist in harmony, providing a unique blend of the old and the new.

The last Egyptian census was conducted in 2017. According to the data, Cairo's population was 19.3 million. The city has a diverse population due to its historical significance and central role in the Middle East. The majority of the population in Cairo is Muslim, with a small proportion of Christians, primarily Copts. Arabic is the official language, but English and French are also widely spoken due to the city's cosmopolitan nature. The city houses several UNESCO World Heritage Sites, including the historic Islamic Cairo district known for its ancient mosques and other Islamic structures. Cairo is also home to the Egyptian Museum, which contains an extensive collection of ancient Egyptian antiquities. The city is also known for its traffic congestion, as it is one of the most densely populated cities in the world.

Cairo is governed at the citywide level by the Cairo Governorate, with local administration divided among various districts. The Governor of Cairo has executive powers, and the governorate's council, which comprises members elected for four-year terms, can scrutinize the Governor's decisions. The governorate is responsible for strategic planning, policing, fire service, transport, and economic development. The local districts are responsible for local services, including local planning, education, social services, local roads, and waste management.

Cairo has a robust and diverse economy with sectors ranging from textiles, food processing, construction to the service sector. It is the financial capital of Egypt, contributing a significant portion of the national GDP. The city's economy is larger than several African nations. The Port of Alexandria, near Cairo, handles a significant amount of Egypt's foreign trade.

Cairo has a comprehensive infrastructure plan to meet the demands of its growing population. The city's infrastructure includes new energy, water, sewage, and transport projects. The investment is provided by both the public and private sectors. The city's digital infrastructure is also expanding, although there are concerns about its capacity. The city is making efforts to improve its digital infrastructure, particularly in terms of broadband access.