Hitachi Rail has secured a contract from the joint venture of Hassan Allam Construction and Arab Contractors to modernise and upgrade the Alexandria Raml Tram, marking a significant milestone in Egypt’s transport transformation.
The project, announced on Wednesday in Cairo, will convert one of the world’s oldest operating tramways into a reliable, efficient and digitally enhanced public transport system. The line, which dates back to 1863 and was last upgraded in the 1960s, remains a vital part of Alexandria’s urban transport network and is one of the few to still run double-deck trams.
Under the new contract, Hitachi Rail will deliver a full suite of advanced systems, including signalling and communications networks, operational control and supervisory control (SCADA) systems, CCTV and access control, as well as passenger information and on-board equipment.
These upgrades are designed to boost reliability, security and performance, aligning with Egypt’s Vision 2030 strategy for sustainable development.
The project covers 13.2 kilometres of track and 24 stations, cutting journey times from one hour to 35 minutes, doubling operating speeds from 11 km/h to 21 km/h, and reducing headways from nine minutes to three. Once completed, passenger capacity is expected to triple from 4,700 to 13,800 people per hour in each direction, easing congestion and reducing emissions.
Joaquim Santos, from Hitachi Rail’s Signalling and Rail Solutions division, 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, Hitachi Rail’s Regional Director for the Middle East and Africa, added: “We are proud to announce that we have been awarded a contract by Hassan Allam joint venture and The Arab Contractors to modernize and upgrade the oldest electric tram system in Africa, transforming it into a reliable, efficient, and digitally enhanced transportation system.”
The project builds on earlier work by the Hassan Allam and Arab Contractors joint venture for the National Authority for Tunnels. It also underscores Hitachi Rail’s growing presence in Egypt’s metro and rail systems, where the company is expanding its localisation strategy by developing engineering, finance and technology talent within the country.
Through this initiative, Hitachi Rail aims to deliver cutting-edge digital infrastructure while contributing to Egypt’s long-term goals for sustainable urban mobility.
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