PhD Experts 
Alexandria is one of Egypt’s most fascinating coastal cities, known for its ancient roots, cultural heritage, and strategic location on the Mediterranean Sea. While most people recognize Alexandria for its famous lighthouse, library, and Greco-Roman history, very few think about something as simple yet important as its elevation. Understanding a city’s elevation is more than just a geographical detail; it influences climate, flood risk, sea-level vulnerability, and long-term urban planning.
In this detailed blog, we explore the average elevation of Alexandria, why different sources sometimes present different figures, and what this means for the city’s future.
Alexandria’s Location and Natural Setting
Alexandria lies along the northern edge of Egypt, stretching across a long coastline that hugs the Mediterranean. The city was originally built on a narrow strip of land between the sea and Lake Mariout. Because of this natural layout, the surface of Alexandria is generally flat, especially near the coastal neighborhoods.
The landscape is mostly composed of:
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Coastal plains near the sea
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Slightly elevated ridges and dunes in certain parts
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Low-lying areas around the lake
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Some inland hills rising gently toward the south
This combination of flat plains and mild elevations creates an interesting elevation profile across the city.
What Is the Average Elevation?
Different studies and mapping tools often list varying elevation values for Alexandria. However, when comparing multiple elevation datasets, one consistent range appears:
Alexandria’s average elevation is roughly between 5 and 15 meters (16 to 50 feet) above sea level.
The variation happens because:
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The coastal areas are extremely low, sometimes just 1–3 meters above sea level.
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The city center commonly falls around 5–10 meters.
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The southern and inland districts rise more significantly, reaching 20–40 meters in certain places.
So the “average elevation” is best understood not as a single number, but a range influenced by local geography.
Why Does Elevation Differ Across the City?
Alexandria may appear flat, but small elevation variations make a big difference.
1. Coastal Zones
Most of Alexandria’s population, businesses, tourism sites, and roads lie close to the sea. These areas, such as Corniche Road, stand only a few meters above sea level. Because they are so low, they are more exposed to storms, strong waves, and potential sea-level rise.
2. Inland Ridges
As one moves away from the coast, the land rises slightly. These higher ridges were once old sand dunes or natural rock formations. They form natural barriers against waves, helping reduce flood risks for some neighborhoods.
3. Lake Mariout Depressions
Near Lake Mariout, some areas sit at or below sea level, especially where land has been reclaimed or naturally sank over time. These zones are the most vulnerable to flooding.
4. Urban Expansion
Some districts built in recent decades sit on land that was previously uneven or artificially filled. Since these areas were developed in different phases, their elevation levels are not uniform.
Why Is Alexandria’s Elevation Important?
Elevation plays a major role in shaping the city’s climate, infrastructure, and long-term safety. Here are the key areas where elevation matters the most:
1. Flooding and Storm Surges
Because large parts of Alexandria are low-lying, heavy storms can cause seawater to push inland. This is most common during winter, when the Mediterranean experiences strong waves. Areas with elevations below 5 meters are especially at risk.
2. Sea-Level Rise Risk
Scientists predict that global sea levels will continue rising in the coming decades. For cities that sit higher above sea level, this may not create immediate problems. But for a mostly flat coastal city like Alexandria, even a small rise in sea level can threaten:
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Homes
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Roads
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Businesses
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Historical landmarks
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Port facilities
Since much of the city rests only 2–10 meters above sea level, it is considered one of the more vulnerable large cities in the Mediterranean region.
3. Urban Planning Challenges
Knowing the city’s elevation helps planners decide:
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Where buildings should be constructed
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Which areas need stronger drainage systems
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Where protective sea walls are required
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How to improve flood management
Neighborhoods at lower elevations need more attention, especially during heavy rains.
4. Transportation and Infrastructure
Roads and public transport lines must be designed carefully in low-lying cities. In Alexandria, major roads that run parallel to the coast face the highest exposure during storms.
Understanding elevation zones helps the government:
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Strengthen vulnerable roads
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Improve underground drainage
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Prevent water from accumulating during storms
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Build future infrastructure on safer ground
Breakdown of Elevation Across Alexandria
Here is a simplified overview of how elevation varies in the city:
Coastal Strip: 1–4 meters
This includes famous areas like:
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Corniche
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Gleem
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Stanley
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Qaitbay Fort surroundings
These regions are the lowest and require the most protection.
Central Districts: 5–10 meters
This includes:
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Raml
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Sidi Gaber
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Sporting
These areas rest slightly higher and are less exposed to flooding.
Southern Districts: 15–40 meters
These regions are farther from the sea, including:
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Smouha
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Agamy highlands
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Parts of Montaza and inland neighborhoods
They are less vulnerable to sea-level rise.
Does Alexandria Have Areas Below Sea Level?
Yes.
Some spots near Lake Mariout are at or slightly below sea level. This occurs due to natural sinking, land reclamation, or previous environmental changes.
These zones often experience:
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Waterlogging
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Slow drainage
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Higher vulnerability during rainstorms
They require careful management to avoid long-term damage.
How Does Elevation Affect Alexandria’s Climate?
Since most of Alexandria is close to sea level, its climate is affected by the Mediterranean Sea. Low elevation contributes to:
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Mild coastal temperatures
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Moist wind flow
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Occasional winter storms
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Higher humidity
If the city had been built on higher ground, its climate would be slightly cooler and less humid.
Is the Elevation Changing Over Time?
Elevation can change due to:
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Land subsidence (slow natural sinking)
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Human development (construction or land reclamation)
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Shoreline erosion
In some areas, subsidence reduces elevation by a few millimeters per year. Combined with rising sea levels, the overall risk increases.
How Alexandria Is Preparing for the Future
Local authorities and international partners have been studying elevation-related risks for years. Some of the measures already in place or under planning include:
1. Reinforcing the Corniche sea defenses
Stronger barriers help reduce wave energy during storms.
2. Upgrading the drainage system
Modern networks help prevent streets from flooding during heavy rainfall.
3. Building protective dunes and natural ridges
Nature-based solutions can reduce coastal erosion.
4. Avoiding risky construction in low-lying zones
Land-use planning now considers elevation before approving major projects.
5. Monitoring sea-level rise and land movement
Accurate data helps predict future risks more effectively.
Why This Elevation Knowledge Matters Today
With millions of residents and a thriving economy, Alexandria cannot afford to ignore elevation-related challenges. Understanding the city’s average elevation helps us see:
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Why coastal flooding happens
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Which neighborhoods need the most protection
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How climate change is shaping the city’s future
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Why planning smarter today prevents costly damage later
Elevation is more than a number it’s a key factor in Alexandria’s resilience.
Conclusion
So, what is the average elevation of Alexandria, Egypt?
Most sources indicate a general average between 5 and 15 meters above sea level.
This range reflects the city’s mix of:
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Very low coastal plains
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Moderate-height central neighborhoods
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Higher inland districts
Because Alexandria sits so close to sea level, elevation plays an important role in shaping its climate, infrastructure, flood risk, and long-term sustainability. As sea levels continue to rise globally, awareness of even small differences in elevation becomes crucial.
Alexandria’s story is not just about ancient history it is also about adapting to a changing environment and planning for a safer, stronger future.
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