Kafr ad Dawwār, Egypt
Region: Kafr el-Sheikh Governorate
Geographic Coordinates: 31.131100, 30.130000
Temperature Range: 18.0°C to 35.0°C (64°F to 95°F)
Climate: Seasonal.
Population: 262748
Language: Arabic
Kafr ad Dawwār is a city situated in the Beheira Governorate of Egypt, Located approximately 15 kilometers west of Alexandria and about 150 kilometers northwest of Cairo. The city has a population of around 250, 000 people and is considered one of the major industrial centers in Egypt. The name Kafr ad Dawwār means village of the roundabout in Arabic, Which refers to its central roundabout that connects it to other nearby cities.
Originally founded as a small agricultural village during the Ottoman period, Kafr ad Dawwār later developed into an important industrial center due to its strategic location near Alexandria’s port. Textiles are one of Kafr ad Dawwār’s main industries, With many factories producing clothing and fabrics for both domestic and international markets. Additionally, Several food processing plants produce items such as tomato paste, Canned fruits and vegetables, And dairy products. The city has various educational institutions including primary schools, Secondary schools, Vocational training centers, And universities.
One notable university is Tanta University’s Faculty of Agriculture which specializes in research on agriculture-related topics such as crop production techniques and soil management practices. Kafr ad Dawwār also boasts several historical landmarks worth visiting such as the Al-Mahmoudiya Canal built during the Ottoman era to connect Alexandria’s port with the Nile River. Another popular attraction is Qasr al-Baron (Baron’s Palace), A beautiful mansion built by Belgian millionaire Edouard Empain at the beginning of the 20th century.
Despite being an industrial hub today, Kafr ad Dawwār still retains much rural charm with traditional farms surrounding it where locals grow crops like cotton or wheat using traditional methods passed down through generations. Kafr ad Dawwār deserves recognition for its rich history, Vibrant industrial sector, And beautiful landscapes. Its cultural heritage combined with modernization make it a great destination for travelers interested in experiencing Egypt beyond the usual tourist hotspots.
Primary Industries
- Agriculture: The city is known for its fertile land and agricultural products such as cotton, wheat, rice, and vegetables.
- Textile industry: Kafr ad Dawwār has a thriving textile industry that produces fabrics for clothing and home furnishings.
- Chemical industry: The city has several chemical factories that produce fertilizers, pesticides, and other chemicals used in agriculture.
- Food processing: There are many food processing plants in the city that produce canned goods, juices, and other food products.
- Manufacturing: Kafr ad Dawwār has a diverse manufacturing sector that includes the production of furniture, ceramics, plastics, and metal products.
- Construction: With the growth of the city’s population comes an increase in construction projects such as housing developments and commercial buildings.
- Retail trade: There are many small shops and markets throughout the city selling a variety of goods including clothing, electronics household items ,and food products.
- Service industry: As with any growing urban center there is an increasing demand for services such as healthcare providers (hospitals), educational institutions (schools), financial institutions (banks), etc.
Noteable History
- The Battle of Kafr ad Dawwār occurred during the Anglo-Egyptian War in 1882, where British and Egyptian forces fought against each other.
- Ahmed Orabi was an Egyptian nationalist leader who led a rebellion against British rule in 1882, resulting in the Battle of Kafr ad Dawwār.
- Muhammad Ali Pasha is known as the founder of modern Egypt and played a significant role in modernizing the country’s infrastructure, military, and economy.
- Gamal Abdel Nasser was an Egyptian army officer who became president of Egypt from 1956 until his death in 1970; he played a prominent role during the Suez Crisis and was instrumental in Arab nationalism.
- Hosni Mubarak served as president of Egypt from 1981 until his resignation during the Arab Spring protests in 2011.
- Mohamed Morsi served as president of Egypt from June 2012 to July 2013 when he was ousted by a military coup led by General Abdel Fattah el-Sisi.
- Mohamed Salah is a professional footballer who plays for Liverpool FC and is considered one of the best players globally; he grew up playing football on dirt pitches around Kafr ad Dawwār before going on to become an international superstar.
- Huda Sha’arawi founded several women’s organizations including The Union for Educated Women, The Society for Muslim Girls, and The Wafdist Women’s Central Committee; she advocated for women’s rights throughout her life as an Egyptian feminist activist.
- Mohamed ElBaradei is known for his work with International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA), which won him Nobel Peace Prize; he is an Egyptian law scholar by profession.
Museums and Things To See
- Kafr El Sheikh Museum: This museum showcases the rich history and culture of the region through its collection of artifacts and exhibits.
- Al-Ghouri Mosque: Known for its beautiful architecture and intricate designs, this historic mosque is a must-see attraction.
- The Great Library of Alexandria: Although not located in Kafr ad Dawwār, this world-renowned library is just a short drive away and is a must-visit for anyone interested in history or literature.
- The Citadel of Qaitbay: Built in the 15th century to protect Alexandria from invaders, this impressive fortress offers a glimpse into Egypt’s fascinating past.
- The Roman Amphitheatre: One of the best-preserved examples of Roman architecture in Egypt, this ancient amphitheater located nearby Alexandria is worth exploring.
- Montazah Palace Gardens: These stunning gardens situated on the Mediterranean coast near Alexandria offer breathtaking views and a peaceful atmosphere perfect for relaxation or picnicking with friends or family members.
- Bibliotheca Alexandrina Planetarium Science Center & Museum (PSCM): This museum boasts interactive exhibits that explore science and technology topics such as astronomy, physics, biology etc., making it an ideal destination for families with children who love science!
Cultural Events
- Cairo International Film Festival
- Luxor African Film Festival
- Abu Simbel Sun Festival
- Sharm El-Sheikh International Theatre Festival for Youth
- Cairo Jazz Festival
- Alexandria Mediterranean Countries Film Festival
- Nubian Folklore Music and Dance Festival
- Siwa Oasis Date Harvesting Season Celebration
- Fayoum Pottery Making Workshop and Exhibition
- Holi Colorful Spring Festival
Cuisine
- Koshary El Tahrir: This restaurant is known for serving the famous Egyptian dish called Koshary.
- Al-Farouk Restaurant: This restaurant is famous for its delicious grilled meat dishes.
- Al-Sheikh Restaurant: Known for its seafood dishes like grilled fish and shrimp.
- El Masryeen Restaurant: Offers a variety of Egyptian street food such as falafel, shawarma, and taameya (Egyptian version of falafel).
- Abou Shakra Restaurant: A chain restaurant that serves traditional Egyptian cuisine like kofta (meatballs), molokhia (a green soup-like dish), and stuffed vine leaves.
- El Qahwa El Sharqia Cafe: A cozy café that offers traditional Egyptian drinks like tea with mint or hibiscus flowers.
- Felfela Restaurant: Known for its authentic Egyptian breakfast dishes such as foul (fava beans) and taameya sandwiches.
- Samakmak Seafood Restaurant: Specializes in fresh seafood dishes like grilled fish, calamari, and prawns.
- Zooba Cairo Street Food: Offers a modern twist on traditional Egyptian street food with items like beetroot tahini dip and hibiscus juice mocktails.
- Wahet El Balad Cafe & Bakery : Popular cafe known for its pastries , cakes , coffee , breakfast meals.
- Al-Nour Park is a popular public park in Kafr ad Dawwār that offers various recreational activities such as jogging, walking, picnicking, and playing sports.
- Al-Manara Park is another popular park in the city that features a beautiful fountain, playgrounds for children, and plenty of green space for relaxing.
- Kafr ad Dawwār Sports Club offers various indoor and outdoor sports facilities such as basketball courts, football fields, and swimming pools.
- Al-Masry Club is another popular sports club in the city that offers facilities for football, handball, volleyball and other indoor games.
- Nile River Cruises offer visitors the opportunity to go on a boat ride along the Nile River to enjoy scenic views of the city’s landscape.
- El-Hammam City Beach Resort located near Kafr ad Dawwār’s coastline provides various water activities like swimming and sunbathing.
- El-Gouna Aqua Park is a short drive from Kafr ad Dawwār which has thrilling rides suitable for all ages to enjoy.