Port Said is a north-eastern city near the Suez Canal, with an approximate population of 650,000. It wa founded in 1859 as the Mediterranean gateway to the Suez Canal. It was the site of the inaugural celebraions in 1869, dubbed by the press of the time the party of the century.

The regional economy depends on fishing and fish-processing, as well as chemicals, processed food, and cigarettes. Port Said is also an important harbor both for exports of Egyptian products such as cotton and rice, but also a fueling station for ships that pass through the Suez Canal. Port Said also thrives on being a duty-free port, as well as a tourist destination in summer.

There are several old houses with grand balconies on all floors, giving the city a distinctive look. Port Fouad is twin city of Port Said's, and they together form a metropolitan area. Port Fouad lies on the eastern side of the canal. Both cities are connected by ferries running through the day.