At the opening of TransMEA 2025 in Cairo, Siemens Mobility introduced its Velaro high-speed train to the Egyptian public for the first time. The event marks a significant step in Egypt’s ongoing efforts to modernize its rail infrastructure and expand sustainable transportation options.
The Velaro train, designed specifically for Egypt’s desert environment, can reach speeds of up to 250 km/h and accommodate 489 passengers. Siemens Mobility has tailored this model with advanced filtration systems and enhanced cooling technology to ensure reliability and comfort in extreme conditions. The unveiling took place at TransMEA, a major transportation and logistics exhibition for the Middle East and Africa.
On the same day, Siemens Mobility’s Desiro HC regional train completed its inaugural run on newly built tracks near the 6th of October Depot, west of Cairo. This train is scheduled for deployment on the Green Line—a 660-kilometer route that will connect Cairo with Ain Sokhna, Alexandria, and Marsa Matrouh. The line is often referred to as the “Suez Canal on Rails” due to its scale and strategic importance.
Both milestones were attended by key officials including Egypt’s Prime Minister Mostafa Madbouly, Deputy Prime Minister for Industrial Development and Minister of Transport and Industry Kamel El-Wazir, Siemens AG President and CEO Roland Busch, Siemens Mobility CEO Michael Peter, as well as other dignitaries.
H.E. Lieutenant General Engineer Kamel El-Wazir stated: “The inaugural ride of the Desiro regional train and the arrival of the Velaro marks a defining moment in Egypt’s transport modernization strategy. This high-speed train project will help redefine passenger experience, reduce travel times, and boost connectivity between cities. It reflects our commitment to building a modern, safe, and sustainable rail network that serves our people and supports Egypt’s economic growth for generations to come.”
Roland Busch added: “We are witnessing the future of mobility in Egypt take shape. The public debut of our Velaro high-speed train at TransMEA and the first train run of the Desiro regional train are powerful symbols of progress and partnership. These milestones reflect our commitment to delivering world-class technology and supporting Egypt’s vision for sustainable mobility and economic growth. Together with our partners, we are proud to help build Egypt’s new high-speed rail network – soon the sixth largest in the world – connecting millions of Egyptian people across the country, and transforming mobility for generations to come.”
Siemens Mobility is implementing a turnkey high-speed rail system in Egypt with partners Arab Contractors and Orascom Construction. Drawing from global experience, Siemens Mobility optimized both trains using digital twin technology from Altair—enhancing performance under harsh desert conditions.
The Desiro HC regional trains are designed for efficiency under local climate challenges. Each unit can carry up to 849 passengers with features such as air conditioning, ETCS Level 2 signaling protection systems, wheelchair access, and a maximum speed of 160 km/h.
Egypt’s high-speed rail project will span over 2,000 kilometers across three lines—connecting major cities nationwide and reaching nearly 90% of Egypt’s population. Once complete, it will be among the six largest high-speed networks globally. The network aims to cut travel times by up to half while reducing CO₂ emissions through more sustainable transport options.
Siemens Mobility has committed to maintaining all railway equipment—including 41 Velaro trains, 94 Desiro HC regional trains, and 41 Vectron locomotives—for fifteen years after delivery.
