Abidjan, the largest city and former capital of Côte d'Ivoire, serves as the country's economic hub, with a population of 6.3 million as of 2021. Originally growing around a wharf built in 1931, it became a key port after the completion of the Vridi Canal in 1951. Though Yamoussoukro is the political capital, Abidjan remains the center of commerce, hosting foreign embassies and major institutions. Known for its rapid urbanization and industrial activity, the city features a mix of modern infrastructure, lagoons, and coastal areas like Vridi, where beaches attract weekend visitors despite swimming restrictions due to strong currents. Its dynamic nightlife, business facilities, and cultural diversity reflect its role as a major West African metropolis.