By Dr Catherine Faragallah
Specialist in International Relations
As the world welcomes a new year and celebrates the blessed Christmas, these festivities in Egypt carry a distinctive character that reflects national, political, and cultural meanings. They cannot be viewed merely within a festive or religious framework; rather, they embody deeper dimensions that mirror Egypt’s beautiful nature, its unique social fabric, and its political messages both domestically and internationally – especially amid the current regional and global challenges.
The national dimension and the consolidation of citizenship
Over recent years, Christmas celebrations in Egypt have evolved into a unifying national occasion that goes beyond being a religious celebration for Christians alone. They have become a practical expression of full citizenship in Egypt. The political leadership is keen each year to convey clear messages that Egyptians are one fabric, and that religious and cultural diversity and coexistence are intrinsic to Egypt’s beautiful identity.
The participation of President
Abdel Fattah El Sisi and the political leadership in congratulating Copts – whether through personal attendance or official messages – reflects the principles of the New Republic established by the President, founded on citizenship, justice, and equality. This marks a transition from rhetoric to practice, strengthens societal trust, and closes the door to attempts at division. Egypt has a president who is a father to all Egyptians, keen to personally extend greetings to all his sons and daughters.
Political messages
The state’s commitment to celebrating, securing churches, and affirming the cohesion, unity, and strength of the people sends an important political message: Egypt is a stable state capable of protecting its internal unity despite all challenges. These celebrations also reflect Egypt’s ability to manage external crises while prioritising the cohesion of the internal front – an essential requirement of national security.
The cultural and civilisational dimension
Egypt is a country distinguished by religious coexistence and possesses a deep civilisational history in this regard. Celebrating Christmas and the New Year in Egyptian streets, media, and official institutions reflects the unique Egyptian character, naturally inclined toward joy and celebration.
This cultural dimension showcases Egypt’s “soft power,” presenting a civilisational model distinct from a region plagued by conflicts and divisions. Egypt remains steadfast and resilient through its unity and the unity of its people – a model that resonates positively with international public opinion.
The social dimension and strengthening social cohesion
These celebrations provide an opportunity to reaffirm shared values among Egyptians – peaceful coexistence, solidarity, mutual respect, and a strong sense of national belonging. Scenes of exchanging greetings between Muslims and Christians and the spread of festive displays in the streets reflect a shared celebration for all Egyptians, as well as a growing societal awareness of the dangers of rumours and schemes targeting Egypt.
Such occasions also contribute to creating a positive psychological atmosphere for citizens amid daily life pressures – an aspect no less important than economic or political considerations.
The role of the media in managing the festive scene
Egyptian media plays a pivotal role in highlighting the national character of these celebrations by focusing on unifying messages and the authentic Egyptian spirit throughout history, while shedding light on positive models of coexistence. This underscores the importance of media responsibility, particularly in confronting attempts by some external platforms to exploit religious occasions to incite discord or question Egypt’s stability.
New Year celebrations: Between hope and challenge
In the Egyptian context, the New Year is not merely a chronological occasion; it is an opportunity to renew hope, reassess priorities, and reaffirm the state’s ability to continue its path of construction and development. Celebrating the New Year despite economic challenges carries an important psychological message: the state and society do not surrender to pressure, but confront it with determination, work, and perseverance.
Messages to the outside world
The festive scene in Egypt sends a clear message that Egypt is a state of institutions that respects diversity and preserves internal stability – enhancing its regional and international standing, especially given its pivotal regional and global role. This positive image supports Egyptian foreign policy and strengthens its credibility in promoting stability and peace in the region.
In conclusion, Egypt’s celebrations of the blessed Christmas and the New Year are not merely festive rituals; they constitute a comprehensive political, cultural, and social scene that reflects the nature of the Egyptian state, the awareness of its people, and their ability to preserve unity in the face of challenges. These celebrations convey reassurance to citizens at home and confidence to the world abroad that Egypt continues on its path of stability and nation-building, grounded in the unity of its people and the cohesion of its national fabric.
Finally, may Egypt and its people always be well under the leadership of President Abdel Fattah El Sisi. May God protect our beloved Egypt and its great army, and may peace prevail throughout the world. May 2026 be a happy year for all. Special congratulations to The Egyptian Gazette and its team, with wishes for continued prosperity and progress under the leadership of Mr Mohamed Fahmy.
