Ismailia, Egypt

Capital City

Living in Ismailia means dealing with a hot desert climate and a population of over 429,000. The city's location along the Suez Canal makes it an important shipping and trade hub, but also comes with drawbacks - the 1973 Battle of Ismailia shows the city has seen its share of conflict. Bureaucracy is a persistent headache, with the Suez Canal Authority occupying many of the city's historic buildings. For those undeterred by the challenges, Ismailia offers opportunities in industries like textiles, high-tech, and agriculture - but it's no tourist paradise.