Egypt Unveils 155mph Velaro High-Speed Rail – The New Project That Will Revolutionize Travel Across the Country!

Published on November 22, 2025

A groundbreaking development in Egypt’s transportation sector has been unveiled with the official launch of the Velaro high-speed rail network, a major project aimed at revolutionizing travel across the country. Announced as part of TransMEA 2025 on November 9, the network promises to reshape the country’s rail system by offering high-speed trains capable of reaching 155 miles per hour. Stretching over 1,242 miles, the new railway network connects 60 stations across Egypt, providing a vital infrastructure upgrade that will improve travel times and enhance connectivity for nearly 90% of the population.

The Velaro high-speed train, which operates at speeds of up to 155mph, is set to make significant strides in reducing travel time between major cities and boosting regional mobility. This initiative not only promises faster transportation but is also seen as a key part of Egypt’s broader economic strategy, designed to support growth, improve efficiency, and promote sustainability in the country’s transportation sector.

The Velaro: A Modern, Efficient Solution for Egypt’s Rail Travel

Developed by Siemens Mobility, the Velaro trains are designed to operate efficiently in Egypt’s extreme climate, which includes temperatures that can reach up to 45°C. The trains have been built with advanced cooling systems, capable of maintaining a comfortable cabin temperature even in the harsh desert heat. Siemens has emphasized that the Velaro is built to withstand the challenging environmental conditions of the region, from intense solar radiation to the extreme heat of the desert.

The Velaro high-speed trains have eight cars and a total of 489 seats, with the design focusing on providing a safe, reliable, and comfortable travel experience for passengers. These trains will make it possible for people to travel across the country much faster than before, cutting down travel times by as much as half. This leap in efficiency is expected to have a substantial impact on both daily commuting and long-distance travel.

A Major Step in Modernizing Egypt’s Rail Infrastructure

The Velaro project is part of Egypt’s ongoing effort to modernize its transportation infrastructure. The project, which was first announced in 2018, has been developed in collaboration with Arab Contractors and Orascom Construction, two of the country’s leading construction companies. With an investment of £8 billion, this new railway system is poised to become the sixth-largest high-speed rail network in the world upon completion. This will make Egypt a major player in the global high-speed rail industry, joining countries such as Japan and France with their own cutting-edge rail systems.

The new network is not just about high-speed passenger travel. It also plays a crucial role in Egypt’s freight transportation strategy, improving the movement of goods across the country. A new regional train, known as the Desiro, has also been introduced as part of the project. This train, which can reach speeds of 99mph, will serve as a crucial link in the Suez Canal on Rails, a route that connects key industrial hubs such as Cairo, Alexandria, and Marsa Matrouh. This addition will increase Egypt’s freight capacity by 46%, further enhancing its role as a logistics hub.

Economic Benefits and Job Creation

One of the key advantages of the new Velaro high-speed rail network is the economic boost it promises to deliver. Siemens has projected that the project will create 40,000 direct jobs through its installation and maintenance efforts. These jobs will not only benefit the transport sector but will also contribute to the broader economy, supporting communities along the railway’s route.

By cutting travel times and improving accessibility between cities, the new network is expected to foster economic development, particularly in the country’s less developed regions. Increased connectivity will make it easier for businesses to expand and for people to access new opportunities, whether for work, education, or leisure.

Additionally, Siemens has signed a 15-year maintenance contract for the Velaro high-speed rail, ensuring the long-term sustainability and efficiency of the network. This ongoing support will help maintain the trains’ high standards of safety and performance, which will be crucial for sustaining the benefits of the rail system over the years.

Environmental and Social Impact

Another significant aspect of the Velaro high-speed rail network is its potential environmental benefits. As part of Egypt’s commitment to reducing its carbon footprint and addressing climate change, high-speed rail is seen as a more sustainable alternative to other forms of transportation. Trains, particularly those like the Velaro, which run on electricity rather than diesel, produce fewer emissions per passenger compared to road vehicles and airplanes.

The Velaro network is expected to encourage more people to use public transportation instead of private cars, reducing congestion and pollution in major cities like Cairo and Alexandria. This shift towards greener modes of travel will contribute to Egypt’s efforts to reduce its carbon emissions and promote cleaner, more sustainable transportation options.

A Vision for the Future: Expanding Egypt’s Rail Network

The launch of the Velaro high-speed rail network marks just the beginning of a larger vision for Egypt’s railway system. The government has indicated plans to expand the network further, with future projects designed to link even more cities across the country. This will allow the benefits of high-speed rail to reach even more regions, promoting inclusivity and economic growth on a national scale.

Furthermore, Egypt’s rail sector is becoming a key driver of technological innovation. The Desiro regional trains, which are also part of this project, are the first to operate along the Suez Canal on Rails and will help transform the region into a major international transport corridor. The Suez Canal itself is a critical global shipping route, and by improving connections between cities and ports, Egypt is positioning itself as a leader in both rail and maritime transport.

Conclusion: A New Era of Rail Travel in Egypt

The unveiling of the Velaro high-speed rail network is a defining moment for Egypt’s transportation sector. The network is set to revolutionize how people and goods move across the country, offering faster, more efficient, and more sustainable travel options. With 40,000 jobs created, new economic opportunities arising, and a significant reduction in travel times, this project is poised to make a lasting impact on Egypt’s infrastructure and economy.

By embracing cutting-edge technology and investing in sustainable rail solutions, Egypt is ensuring that its transportation systems are prepared for the future. As more rail projects like this one are developed, Egypt’s railway network will continue to expand, offering better connectivity and fostering further growth in the years to come.