"As we celebrate Coptic Christmas, I would like to offer my best wishes to the people of Egypt and our nation. This occasion is a reminder to stay united by the love we have for our nation," the president tweeted on Friday.

"We will not deviate from humanitarian coexistence and the deep rooted belief in the unity of the nation and humanity.”

“This is an opportunity to be re-inspired by the teachings of Jesus about love, tolerance, forgiveness and benevolence," he added.

"I wish you all peace and may Egypt always remain safe," El-Sisi concluded his message.

Coptic Orthodox Egyptians, who make up 90 percent of the country’s Christian population, celebrate Christmas on 7 January according to the Julian Calendar.

Smaller Egyptian Christian denominations – such as Catholics and Evangelicals – celebrate Christmas on 25 December, according to the Gregorian Calendar.

Coptic Christmas was declared a public holiday in Egypt in 2003.

This year, the government announced that Sunday, 8 January will be a paid day off for public and private sector workers on the occasion of Coptic Christmas.

Egypt has increased security measures secure the celebrations.