Egypt is embarking on a monumental transport revolution with the imminent launch of a brand-new, high-speed rail network designed to connect its major cities and regions.
A Railway Built for the Desert
The backbone of this ambitious project is the Siemens Mobility Velaro train, which was officially unveiled at the TransMEA 2025 exhibition. These are not off-the-shelf models; they have been specifically custom-built to endure Egypt's challenging desert environment. Engineers have fortified them to perform reliably in extreme heat and cope with the pervasive presence of sand, ensuring consistent service.
These advanced trains are capable of reaching impressive speeds of up to 250 kilometres per hour. The entire network will be extensive, consisting of three primary lines that span roughly 2,000 kilometres in total. This vast infrastructure will link 60 stations across the nation, creating seamless connections between key locations including the capital, Cairo, and the emerging New Administrative Capital.
Significant Economic and Environmental Benefits
The introduction of this high-speed service promises transformative benefits for both commuters and the country's environmental footprint. Officials project that the new rail system will reduce travel times by as much as 50 per cent compared to existing road options.
Furthermore, by providing a mass transit alternative to private cars and buses, the network is expected to achieve a substantial reduction in CO2 emissions of up to 70 per cent. This aligns with broader global and national goals for sustainable development and cleaner transport solutions.
First Line Operational Soon
In a significant development, Egypt's Minister of Transport, Kamel Al-Wazir, has confirmed that the first major section of the network is nearly ready for public use. He announced that the line connecting Ain Sokhna on the Red Sea to Alexandria on the Mediterranean will be operational soon.
This initial route will provide a modern, efficient, and integrated rail transport service, marking the first major step in realising Egypt's vision for a 21st-century transport corridor. The project, spearheaded by the Ministry of Transport, represents one of the largest rail infrastructure investments in the region and is set to redefine inter-city travel within the country.
