Suez Canal

The Suez Canal is a man-made sea-level waterway in Egypt, connecting the Mediterranean Sea to the Red Sea through the Isthmus of Suez. Constructed by the Suez Canal Company between 1859 and 1869, it officially opened on November 17, 1869. The canal offers watercraft a more direct route between the North Atlantic and northern Indian Oceans via the Mediterranean and Red seas, thus avoiding the South Atlantic and southern Indian Oceans and reducing the journey distance from the Arabian Sea to London by approximately 8,900 kilometres (5,500 mi). The canal extends over 193.30 km (120.11 miles) including its northern and southern access channels. In general, it provides significant reduction in voyage time and fuel consumption, contributing to more efficient and economical maritime trade. However, it also presents unique navigational challenges due to its narrow width and shallow depth, requiring specialized knowledge and skills for safe passage.