It is located in the north-eastern part of the country, and encompasses the northern half of the Sinai Peninsula.

North Sinai has a rich history dating back to ancient times and is home to several ancient settlements that hold significant historical and Biblical importance – Ostrakine and Kasion, both of which served as a border city between Egypt and Syria and an important bishopric in the Byzantine era; Kadesh Barnea, an important site, with its history tied to the events described in the Bible.

The population of the North Sinai Governorate as at 2015 was 434,781 people, comprising predominantly Bedouin tribesmen.

[8][9] The governorate is divided into municipal divisions for administrative purposes with a total estimated population as of January 2023 of 504,201.

[12] North Sinai is divided into six markaz (counties), each with an eponymous city as their capitals.