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Maghara Coal Mine

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Industrial site
—°
Maghara Coal Mine (Egypt)

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The Maghara Coal Mine, situated in North Sinai, is Egypt's most significant coal deposit and a cornerstone of industrial development in the peninsula. Discovered in the 1960s, it stands as a unique geological asset in a country otherwise dominated by oil and gas reserves. the mine produces bituminous coal, which is primarily utilized as a fuel source for cement plants and in the iron smelting processes. After a long period of closure due to regional instability, operations were restarted and modernized in recent years with improved underground mining technologies. Its location within a rugged mountain range necessitated the development of complex infrastructure to transport the coal to Mediterranean ports. The mine provides essential employment opportunities for the local Bedouin population and helps diversify Egypt's energy mix. Despite the global shift toward renewable energy, Maghara remains of strategic value for national heavy industry, reducing the economic burden of importing coal from abroad.

Best time to visit & climate

The most pleasant time to visit is Apr, May, Oct.

JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec
Avg °C111215192325272725221713
Rain mm1815982000051111

📋 Practical info

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What is this place?
This site represents a significant coal mining operation located on the rugged Sinai Peninsula, playing a crucial and enduring role in Egypt's domestic heavy industry and resource extraction sector.
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Visiting
Due to strict security and operational safety protocols at active industrial zones, direct public access or tourist entry to the mining facilities is generally strictly prohibited for casual visitors.
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Where to view it
Travelers traversing the regional desert roads of the Sinai Peninsula can often catch distant, fascinating glimpses of the extensive industrial infrastructure and massive, heavy earthmoving equipment.
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Local products
While the mine itself produces industrial bulk coal, nearby settlements might offer basic local Sinai goods and traditional crafts, though there are typically no direct consumer markets at the site.
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Active season
Heavy mining operations generally continue at a steady pace throughout the entire year, but the surrounding arid desert region is most comfortably observed during the much cooler winter months.
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Nearby
A trip near this remote industrial area is typically combined with broader, adventurous explorations of the Sinai Peninsula's natural desert landscapes or transiting toward the scenic coastal resort towns.

Geography

Coordinates
30.70000, 33.36670

Facts

  • The only commercially viable coal mine in Egypt.
  • Estimated coal reserves exceed 50 million tons.
  • Mining operations reach depths of up to 150 meters underground.
  • Located in the Jebel Maghara mountain range in North Sinai.
  • Officially reopened in 2014 after significant technical upgrades.
  • Provides high-calorific value coal essential for heavy industrial use.

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Route planner — Car & Motorhome

Where do you start? We build the route here, with stops and country notes along the way.

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Sights nearby

Frequently asked questions

What is the Maghara mine?
Egypt's only significant coal mine, located in the Sinai Peninsula.
Can the mine be visited?
No, it is an active industrial site, closed to tourists.
What is mined there?
Bituminous coal for energy production and industry.
What is the terrain like?
Rugged mountainous landscape in northern Sinai.
Are there any dangers?
The region is subject to strict military security regulations.
Maghara Coal Mine: where is it located?
Maghara Coal Mine is located in Egypt.
Maghara Coal Mine: when is the best time to visit?
The most pleasant time to visit is Apr, May, Oct.
Maghara Coal Mine: why is it worth visiting?
The Maghara Coal Mine, situated in North Sinai, is Egypt's most significant coal deposit and a cornerstone of industrial development in the peninsula.
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Nearby cities

Arish — Maghara Coal Mine (Egypt)
Arish
The largest city on the Sinai Peninsula on the Mediterranean coast.

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