Gaza City Map

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Gaza City is the largest city in the Gaza Strip and serves as the administrative capital of the Gaza Governorate. Located on the eastern coast of the Mediterranean Sea, it has a population of approximately 590,481 residents (as of 2017), making it one of the most densely populated urban areas in the world.

The city's history spans over 5,000 years, making it one of the oldest cities in the world. Gaza City was a vital trade center due to its strategic location along ancient caravan routes connecting Egypt with the Levant. Throughout its history, the city has been ruled by various civilizations, including the Ancient Egyptians, Philistines, Romans, Byzantines, Muslims, Crusaders, and Ottomans, each leaving their distinct cultural and architectural mark on the city.

The modern city features several notable landmarks and cultural sites. The Great Mosque of Gaza, also known as the Great Omari Mosque, is the largest and oldest mosque in Gaza, originally built in the 7th century and rebuilt multiple times throughout history. The Pasha Palace, constructed in 1260, serves as a historic museum and represents one of the most significant architectural monuments in the city. The Al-Sayed Hashem Mosque, dedicated to Prophet Muhammad's grandfather, is an important religious site that attracts numerous visitors.

Gaza City's economy has traditionally relied on small-scale industries, agriculture, and fishing. The port of Gaza, although currently operating under restrictions, has historically been an important commercial hub. The city is home to several educational institutions, including the Islamic University of Gaza, founded in 1978, which is the largest university in the Gaza Strip.

The city faces significant challenges due to ongoing political conflicts and economic blockades. Infrastructure, including water supply, electricity, and sewage systems, operates under severe limitations. Despite these challenges, Gaza City maintains its position as the cultural and economic center of the Gaza Strip, with various markets, including the Gold Market and the historic Palestine Square, serving as important commercial and social gathering spaces for residents.

The coastal location of Gaza City historically provided it with a Mediterranean climate, characterized by mild winters and warm summers. The city's beach area, stretching along the Mediterranean coast, has traditionally been an important recreational area for residents, although access and use are currently limited due to political circumstances and environmental concerns.

As of January 2025, during the Israel-Hamas war, Israeli military operations extensively bombed the Northern Gaza Strip, causing widespread destruction of buildings and infrastructure. Most residents were either evacuated to Southern Gaza, fled the area, or lost their lives in the conflict. Due to these events, previous population statistics are no longer accurate.

The Facts:
Region: Gaza Strip.
Governorate: Gaza.
Population: ~ 590,481 (2017 Census).

Districts of Gaza City: Daraj, Judeide, Sheikh Radwan, Nasser, Old City, Sheikh Ijlin, Rimal, Sabra, al-Shati Camp, Shuja'iyya, Turukman, Tel al-Hawa, Tuffah, Zeitoun.

Main sights: Great Mosque, Sayed Hashem Mosque, Kateb al-Welaya Mosque, Ibn Uthman Mosque, Mahkamah Mosque, Ibn Marwan Mosque, Qasr al-Basha.