Hitachi Rail to Modernize Egypt’s Oldest Tramway in Alexandria
Contract to upgrade El Raml Tram will double speed, triple capacity, and deliver advanced digital rail systems aligned with Egypt’s Vision 2030.
www.hitachirail.com
Hitachi Rail has been awarded a contract by Hassan Allam Construction and Arab Contractors JV to modernize and upgrade Alexandria Raml Tram, doubling operational speed and almost tripling its capacity.
In delivering the contract, Hitachi Rail will provide advanced signalling and communications systems, Operational Control Center and Supervisory Control & Data Acquisition - SCADA, security systems with CCTV cameras and Access Control, Passenger Information and On-Board equipment.
The project will significantly enhance train operations, ensuring a fast, secure, and efficient public transportation system that aligns with Egypt’s Vision 2030 for sustainable development.
The Alexandria El Raml Tram is the oldest tramline in the Middle East and Africa, dating back to 1863, and operates on aging infrastructure last modernized in the 1960s. Remarkably, it remains one of the few tramways in the world to run double-deck trams in regular service.
The project encompasses the reconstruction of 24 stations and 13.2 km of tram track. Its modernization is designed to significantly improve service efficiency by reducing travel time from 60 to 35 minutes, doubling operational speed from 11 km/h to 21 km/h, and decreasing headway from 9 minutes to just 3. Once completed, the upgraded tramline is expected to triple passenger capacity from 4,700 to 13,800 passengers per hour per direction, contributing to enhanced urban mobility while alleviating traffic congestion and lowering CO₂ emissions across the city.
The Alexandria El Raml Tram Rehabilitation contract represents a major significant milestone for strengthening Hitachi Rail’s presence in metro and railway systems in the region.
Investing in Local Talent and Digital Innovation
Hitachi Rail continues to invest in Egypt through strategic localization and digital innovation. Local teams have been built across engineering, finance, legal and other disciplines to deliver projects and support customers. CBTC systems now include localized IVVQ activities, and AFC initiatives are creating high-tech jobs and promoting diversity. These efforts align with Egypt’s national strategy and aim to expand beyond the country.
Enhancing Passenger Experience
Digital solutions like integrated public information systems and AFC platforms enhance passenger experience and enable seamless travel across metro, LRT and monorail networks. In Alexandria, the Abu Qir Metro will feature TRANSCITY™ AFC technology, offering multiple payment options including QR codes, contactless cards, EMV bank cards and NFC mobile payments.
Joaquim Santos, SRS OPPS, Hitachi Rail, said: “Hitachi Rail has a long-standing presence in Egypt, built on trust, collaboration and shared ambition. Our commitment goes beyond delivering advanced technologies—we are deeply invested in developing local capabilities, supporting innovation, and contributing to the country’s sustainable mobility goals.”
Carlo Piacenza, SRS MEA Regional Director, Hitachi Rail, said: “The contract will see us modernize and upgrade the oldest electric tram system in Africa, transforming it into a reliable, efficient, and digitally enhanced transportation system. The project underlines the capabilities of Hitachi Rail technologies in the rehabilitation and modernization of tramway systems."
www.hitachirail.com
