Zagazig, Egypt

Capital City

With a population of 383,703, Zagazig is hardly the quaint oasis many Westerners envision when moving to Egypt. This bustling cotton and corn hub in the Nile Delta is a relentless grind of bureaucracy and traffic. The climate is unforgiving, with the city's hot desert conditions making even mundane tasks feel like a slog.

On the plus side, Zagazig is home to a major university and some archaeological riches. But for those seeking a tranquil expat experience, this city's gritty realities may prove a rude awakening. Zagazig is for the resilient few who can tolerate its constant challenges.