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Hitachi Rail has been awarded a contract by Hassan Allam Construction and Arab Contractors JV to modernise and upgrade the historic Alexandria Raml Tram, transforming it into a reliable, efficient, and digitally advanced transport system.
To improve both reliability and operational efficiency, Hitachi Rail will deliver state-of-the-art signalling and communication systems (including fixed and wireless networks), an Operational Control Centre and Supervisory Control & Data Acquisition (SCADA) system, as well as security infrastructure featuring CCTV cameras, access control, passenger information systems, and on-board technologies.
The solution developed by Hitachi Rail will significantly enhance train operations, ensuring a fast, secure, and efficient public transport system that supports Egypt’s Vision 2030 for sustainable development.
As the oldest tramline in both the Middle East and Africa, the Alexandria El Raml Tram—dating back to 1863—operates on ageing infrastructure and was last modernised in the 1960s. Remarkably, it remains one of the few tramways in the world to operate double-deck trams in regular service.
The project includes the reconstruction of 24 stations and 13.2 km of tram track. Its modernisation aims to dramatically improve efficiency by reducing travel time from 60 to 35 minutes, doubling operating speed from 11 km/h to 21 km/h, and reducing headway from 9 minutes to just 3. Once completed, the upgraded tramline is expected to triple passenger capacity—from 4,700 to 13,800 passengers per hour per direction—enhancing urban mobility, easing traffic congestion, and lowering CO₂ emissions across Alexandria.
The Alexandria El Raml Tram Rehabilitation contract represents a major milestone for Hitachi Rail, further strengthening its presence in metro and railway systems across the region. Earlier this year, Hassan Allam Construction and Arab Contractors JV signed the main rehabilitation contract with the National Authority for Tunnels.
Investing in local talent and digital innovation
Hitachi Rail continues to expand its presence in Egypt through localisation and technology-driven growth. Local teams have been established across engineering, finance, legal, and other functions to deliver projects and support clients. Its CBTC systems now include locally implemented IVVQ activities, while AFC initiatives are creating high-tech jobs and promoting diversity. These initiatives align with Egypt’s national strategy and contribute to the country’s wider industrial development goals.
Enhancing passenger experience
Hitachi Rail’s digital innovations, including integrated passenger information systems and AFC platforms, are enhancing travel experiences and enabling seamless mobility across metro, LRT, and monorail networks. In Alexandria, the Abu Qir Metro will feature TRANSCITY AFC technology, offering multiple payment options such as QR codes, contactless cards, EMV bank cards, and NFC mobile payments.
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, Signalling and Rail Solutions (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 (Osman Ahmed Osman & Co.) to modernise and upgrade the oldest electric tram system in Africa, transforming it into a reliable, efficient, and digitally enhanced transportation system. This contract marks an important milestone, showing the capacity of Hitachi Rail technologies in the rehabilitation and modernisation of tramway systems.”
