• A 15-year contract requires 95 % Egyptian staff and full skills transfer.
• Line 1 trials have begun on a network set to reach about 2,000 km.
• The project supports Egypt’s Vision 2030 transport modernization goals.

Egypt has awarded the operation of its future electric high-speed rail network to a German-Egyptian consortium composed of DB International Operations (Deutsche Bahn) and Elsewedy Electric. The 15-year contract requires at least 95 % Egyptian staffing and a full transfer of expertise to local teams.

The award follows the launch last week of the first technical tests on Line 1. This line is the initial phase of a megaproject expected to become one of the largest modern rail networks on the African continent. Stretching about 2,000 km, the corridor will connect economic hubs, strategic port cities, and several major tourist destinations.

The network is being developed by Siemens Mobility in partnership with Orascom Construction and The Arab Contractors. It will use three types of rolling stock: Velaro high-speed trains for long distances, Desiro regional trains for medium and short routes, and Vectron locomotives for freight.

Aligned with the government’s Vision 2030, the program aims to modernize transport infrastructure, strengthen national logistics, and improve territorial connectivity. Since 2014, Egypt has carried out a wide reform of its rail system to reduce accidents and improve service quality. Authorities expect the new high-speed line to ease trade flows, support economic momentum, and enhance the country’s tourism appeal.