Egypt's High-Speed Rail Line Set for Trial Runs in Autumn 2026
The first phase will initially operate between Hadayek October and Alexandria.
Trial operations for the first line of Egypt's high-speed electric rail network are scheduled to begin before the end of 2026, with services expected to start in September or October.
According to the Ministry of Transport, the six-month testing period will begin from Hadayek October and gradually extend to Wadi El Natroun, El Nubaria and Alexandria.
An operating plan has been prepared and is awaiting approval. The line's operating and protection systems will rely on safety technologies provided by specialised foreign companies, while stations and surrounding areas will be monitored through an advanced camera network.
Details of the launch timetable were presented by Deputy Minister of Transport for Rail Transport Wagdy El Shahat during a meeting of the House of Representatives Transport and Communications Committee.
The session also reviewed Presidential Decree No. 160 of 2026 concerning a financing agreement for the second and third lines of the high-speed rail network.
The agreement involves a group of European banks and is backed by Germany's export credit agency Hermes.
According to representatives involved in the discussions, the financing arrangement is commercial rather than governmental, with officials describing the interest rates as consistent with international lending standards.
El Shahat said the project is expected to generate an economic return of around 12%, adding that every pound invested in the network is projected to yield approximately EGP 2.65 at current prices.
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