The oldest area in Maadi is El Sarayat, composed mostly of villas and lowrise buildings. It is the most affluent part of Maadi along with the adjacent Degla area. These two areas are recognizable by the high number of roundabouts, quiet atmosphere and greenery.There are many flats in Maadi, most in lowrise buildings. There are several highrises along the Corniche by the river, as well as in the newer, eastern part of the town, known as Degla.Maadi lies on the river Nile about 12 km upstream from downtown Cairo, on the east bank. The river is paralleled by the Corniche, a waterfront promenade of the kind found in many Egyptian towns. The main road into Cairo follows the Corniche.Maadi is the least densely populated neighbourhood in Greater Cairo, and much of the town is inhabited by well-to-do Egyptians, as well as expatriates many of whom are connected with embassies, ambassadorial residences and international corporations located in Maadi. In particular, the Peruvian, Mexican, Japanese, Mongolian embassies, among others, are located in Maadi. The Cairo office for the USAID is also located in this suburb