Project Profile: Egypt High-Speed Rail Network

Egypt is executing a landmark infrastructure project to establish a fully-electrified, 2,000 km high-speed rail network, engineered to modernize national transportation and logistics. The network, dubbed the “Suez Canal on rails,” will integrate passenger and freight services, connecting the Red Sea to the Mediterranean coast and major inland cities. This initiative represents a strategic investment in sustainable transport technology to foster economic growth and reduce carbon emissions.

Technical Specifications

The network’s backbone is the 660 km “Green Line” connecting Ain Sokhna on the Red Sea with Alexandria and Marsa Matrouh on the Mediterranean. The subsequent “Blue Line” will extend 1,100 km south from Cairo to Abu Simbel, while the “Red Line” covers 225 km connecting Luxor with Safaga. The entire system is designed for a maximum operational speed of 250 km/h and is fully electrified to minimize environmental impact. The signaling infrastructure is based on the European Train Control System (ETCS) Level 2, ensuring high safety standards and operational efficiency through a computerized interlocking system.

The rolling stock, supplied by Siemens Mobility, is a critical component of the project. It includes 41 Velaro high-speed eight-car passenger trains, 94 Desiro High Capacity four-car regional train sets, and 41 Vectron freight locomotives. The Velaro units are engineered for long-distance travel, while the Desiro sets cater to high-capacity regional services with an emphasis on energy efficiency. The versatile Vectron locomotives will handle the network’s freight capacity, bolstering Egypt’s logistics capabilities.

Key Takeaways

• Strategic Economic Corridor: The network creates a “Suez Canal on rails,” directly linking the Red Sea and Mediterranean ports to facilitate faster and more efficient freight movement, enhancing Egypt’s position as a global logistics hub.
• Technological Modernization: By implementing ETCS Level 2 signaling and deploying state-of-the-art Siemens Velaro and Desiro rolling stock, Egypt is leapfrogging legacy systems and establishing one of the most advanced rail networks in the region.
• Sustainable Development: The fully electrified system is projected to reduce carbon emissions by 70% compared to equivalent car or bus journeys, directly supporting Egypt’s climate goals while reducing traffic congestion and improving air quality in urban centers.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

When will the full Egyptian high-speed rail network be operational?

The first line, the 660 km Green Line, became operational in stages starting in 2024. The full 2,000 km, three-line network is expected to be completed and fully operational by 2027, subject to construction timelines.

Who is building Egypt’s high-speed rail system?

Egypt’s high-speed rail system is being built by a consortium led by Siemens Mobility, in partnership with two major Egyptian firms: Orascom Construction and The Arab Contractors. The project is being managed and overseen by Egypt’s National Authority for Tunnels (NAT).