Everything you need to know about Egypt’s Sokhna–Alamein high-speed train

Egypt is readying to begin trial operations for its high-speed electric train network, following an inspection by Transport Minister Kamel al-Wazir at the Siemens pavilion during the InnoTrans exhibition in Berlin.

Test run scheduled on Sokhna line

The initial trial phase will take place along the section connecting Sokhna, the Administrative Capital, and October City as part of the network’s first line.

Manufactured by German rail giant Siemens, the high-speed Velaro express train is designed specifically to handle Egypt’s harsh climate.

Technical features built for desert conditions

• Top operating speed: capable of reaching up to 250 km/h, cutting transit times drastically across major Egyptian hubs.
• Heat and sand resistance: engineered with heavy-duty air filtration systems, specialized cooling units, and protective sealing to shield mechanical components from desert heat and blowing sand.
• Advanced interior design: includes aerodynamic exterior shaping to reduce drag, along with high-capacity climate control and noise isolation inside passenger cabins.

Fleet layout for the nationwide network

Under the agreement with Siemens Mobility, the high-speed network will rely on three distinct types of rolling stock tailored for different operational needs:

• Velaro express trains: 41 high-speed trainsets engineered for long-distance rapid transit between major cities.
• Desiro HC regional trains: 94 regional electric trainsets designed for medium-distance travel and high-passenger capacity between provincial centers.
• Vectron freight locomotives: 41 heavy electric freight locomotives designated for commercial cargo transport, linking Red Sea and Mediterranean ports.