Alstom, heading a consortium that includes Rowad Modern Engineering and Concrete Plus, has finalized four significant contracts with Egyptian National Railways (ENR). These agreements are set to modernize crucial railway corridors within Egypt, specifically focusing on the 6th of October–Alexandria corridor and the Belbes–10th of Ramadan (B10) line. The combined financial scope of these undertakings reaches approximately €690 million, with Alstom contributing around €300 million of that total.
These initiatives represent one of the most substantial Egypt rail modernization endeavors. They align with the national development framework, Egypt Vision 2030, by reinforcing the country’s logistical capabilities and improving the connections between newly developed dry ports, industrial areas, and major seaports. This strategic upgrade of Egypt’s rail infrastructure is designed to foster greater economic integration and efficiency.
Enhancing Connectivity and Efficiency on Key Rail Lines
The 6th of October–Alexandria corridor, a project valued at €550 million with Alstom’s portion at approximately €240 million, will be executed across three major phases. This segment will see comprehensive modernization including the implementation of next-generation digital railway systems, updated telecommunications infrastructure, reinforced power supply systems, and extensive civil and track rehabilitation. These improvements are anticipated to significantly boost safety, increase operational capacity, enhance reliability, and reduce travel times across the entire route by nearly 80 minutes.
Similarly, the Belbes–10th of Ramadan (B10) project, with a total value of about €140 million and Alstom’s share at approximately €60 million, will incorporate the same advanced railway technologies and modernization scope. This segment is particularly important for improving connectivity to one of Egypt’s largest industrial hubs, thereby strengthening freight operations and supporting industrial expansion along the eastern logistics corridor.
Strengthening National Logistics and Trade Flows
By transforming freight transport between the 6th of October Dry Port and the Alexandria Seaport, and by enhancing rail links to the 10th of Ramadan industrial zone, these projects are poised to strengthen the connections between Egypt’s primary logistics hubs and its maritime gateways. Such developments are expected to help alleviate supply chain bottlenecks, promote sustainable freight transport solutions, and ultimately bolster both national and regional trade volumes.
Alstom’s expectations regarding the modernization contracts
Commenting on the major Egypt rail modernization deals, Martin Vaujour, President of Alstom’s Africa, Middle East and Central Asia (AMECA) region, said, “The Africa, Middle East and Central Asia region has never been more committed to building smarter, more resilient rail networks, and Alstom is at the center of that transformation. These contracts demonstrate our capacity to deliver large-scale, complex signalling programmes, and our determination to be a long-term partner for its most critical mobility infrastructure.”
Ramy Salah, Managing Director of Alstom Egypt, said,”Our partnership with Egyptian National Railways, driven by world-class expertise and Egyptian talents, is creating vital transport corridors that drive economic growth, connect key industrial and logistics centres, and unlock new opportunities for future generations.”
Project responsibilities of the consortium members
As the consortium leader, Alstom will oversee all aspects of the project lifecycle, from engineering and design to supply, testing, and commissioning of the new digital railway systems. This comprehensive approach includes the integration of ETCS Level 1 signalling, modern telecommunications, robust power infrastructure, and advanced operations control systems, facilitating real-time network management.
Under the Egypt rail modernization agreements, Rowad Modern Engineering and Concrete Plus will be responsible for the construction of technical buildings, MEP works, and the complete range of civil and track upgrades, ensuring the establishment of resilient and future-ready rail infrastructure.
A notable aspect of these projects is their strong support for national industry development, with approximately 50% local content expected to be achieved through the utilization of Egyptian engineering talent and local sourcing. This commitment to local content is a testament to Alstom Egypt’s long-standing presence and investment in the region.
