Desiro regional train completes first run as Egypt builds world’s sixth-largest high-speed rail system
Siemens Mobility has unveiled its Velaro high-speed train in Egypt for the first time, marking a major milestone in the country’s ambitious transport modernization program.
The debut took place at TransMEA 2025 in Cairo, where senior Egyptian officials and global industry leaders gathered to witness progress on the rapidly expanding Egypt high-speed rail network.
High-Level Attendance at Cairo Showcase
The unveiling was attended by:
- Mostafa Madbouly
- Kamel El-Wazir
- Roland Busch
- Michael Peter
On the same day, the Desiro High-Capacity (HC) regional train successfully completed its first test run on newly constructed tracks near the 6th of October Depot, west of Cairo.
Velaro Train Adapted for Desert Conditions
The Velaro high-speed train, specially engineered for Egypt’s harsh desert climate, reaches speeds of up to 250 km/h and offers seating for 489 passengers.
Designed using advanced digital twin technologies, the train incorporates:
- Enhanced cooling systems
- Sand- and dust-resistant filtration
- Heat-optimized components
The Velaro fleet forms part of a turnkey rail system being delivered in partnership with Arab Contractors and Orascom Construction.
Desiro HC Regional Fleet Expands Capacity
The Desiro HC regional trains will play a central role in the new network, particularly on the 660 km Green Line linking Cairo to Ain Sokhna, Alexandria and Marsa Matrouh — a corridor often referred to as the “Suez Canal on Rails.”
Key features of the Desiro HC include:
- Top speed of 160 km/h
- Capacity for up to 849 passengers
- ETCS Level 2 signaling system
- Air conditioning and wheelchair accessibility
A total of 94 Desiro HC trains will operate across the network.
Building the Sixth-Largest High-Speed Network
Egypt’s three-line rail project will span more than 2,000 kilometers, connecting major cities and reaching nearly 90% of the population. Once completed, it is expected to become the sixth-largest high-speed rail network in the world.
The full fleet will include:
- 41 Velaro high-speed trains
- 94 Desiro HC regional trains
- 41 Vectron locomotives
Under a 15-year maintenance agreement, Siemens Mobility will oversee servicing of the trains and railway systems to ensure long-term operational reliability.
A Transformational Infrastructure Investment
Officials say the project will cut travel times by up to 50%, reduce CO₂ emissions and stimulate sustainable economic development.
Prime Minister Mostafa Madbouly described the milestones as a defining moment in Egypt’s transport modernization strategy, while Siemens CEO Roland Busch called the unveiling a “powerful symbol of progress and partnership.”
With the Velaro’s public debut and the first successful Desiro test run, momentum continues to build behind the Egypt high-speed rail network — a project poised to reshape mobility, connectivity and economic opportunity across the country.
