By: Logistics Middle east

Hitachi Rail has secured a major systems contract from the Hassan Allam Construction and Arab Contractors joint venture to modernise the historic Alexandria Raml Tram, marking one of the most significant rail rehabilitation projects currently underway in Egypt.

The agreement will see Hitachi Rail overhaul the entire rail system of the 162-year-old line, transforming it into a modern, digitally enabled, and high-capacity transport corridor that supports Egypt’s Vision 2030 sustainable mobility objectives.

Modern systems for a 19th-century tramway

As part of the contract, Hitachi Rail will supply advanced signalling and communications systems—spanning fixed and wireless networks—alongside a new Operations Control Centre, SCADA systems, security installations including CCTV and access control, and upgraded passenger information and on-board equipment.

These enhancements are designed to significantly improve reliability, safety, and service regularity along a tramway that has seen no major upgrade since the 1960s.

First launched in 1863, Alexandria’s El Raml Tram is the oldest electric tram line in both the Middle East and Africa, and remains one of the few systems in the world still operating double-deck trams in daily passenger service.

Capacity boost and reduced travel times

The Raml Tram Rehabilitation Project includes the reconstruction of 24 stations and the upgrade of 13.2 km of track.

The modernisation programme aims to reduce journey times from 60 minutes to 35 minutes, increase operating speed from 11 km/h to 21 km/h, and decrease headways from nine minutes to just three minutes.

Once completed, the system is expected to triple peak-hour capacity from 4,700 passengers per hour per direction to 13,800 passengers per hour per direction.

This initiative is designed to alleviate road congestion in Alexandria, reduce transport-related emissions, and promote more efficient urban mobility in one of Egypt’s fastest-growing metropolitan areas.

Hitachi Rail said the contract marks a “major significant milestone” in strengthening its role in Egypt’s rail transformation programme.

Earlier this year, Hassan Allam Construction and Arab Contractors JV signed the main rehabilitation contract for the project with the National Authority for Tunnels.

Localisation and digital innovation

Beyond the Raml Tram, Hitachi Rail continues to expand its local footprint in Egypt through talent development and the deployment of digital technology.

The company has established multidisciplinary local teams in engineering, finance, legal and operations, while CBTC programmes now include in-country testing and validation activities.

Its automated fare collection (AFC) initiatives are also generating high-tech employment and supporting national digitalisation plans.

Passenger-facing upgrades are also accelerating. In Alexandria, the upcoming Abu Qir Metro will adopt Hitachi Rail’s TRANSCITY AFC system, enabling QR code payments, contactless cards, EMV bank cards and NFC mobile transactions.

Joaquim Santos, Signalling and Rail Solutions (SRS) OPPS, ICS, 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, added, “We are proud to announce that we have been awarded a contract by Hassan Allam joint venture and The Arab Contractors to modernise and upgrade the oldest electric tram system in Africa, transforming it into a reliable, efficient, and digitally enhanced transportation system.”