Siemens Mobility has unveiled the Velaro high-speed train to the Egyptian public for the first time at TransMEA 2025, marking a major step forward in Egypt’s ambitious plan to build one of the world’s largest high-speed rail networks. The event also saw the Desiro HC regional train complete its first successful test run on newly constructed tracks near Cairo.
Both milestones were celebrated during the official opening of the TransMEA exhibition, attended by Egypt’s Prime Minister Mostafa Madbouly, Minister of Transport Kamel El-Wazir, Siemens AG President and CEO Roland Busch, Siemens Mobility CEO Michael Peter, and other distinguished guests.
Key milestones for Egypt’s rail transformation
The unveiling of the Velaro and the first run of the Desiro HC underscore Siemens Mobility’s role in Egypt’s rail modernisation. Developed as part of a turnkey high-speed system in partnership with Arab Contractors and Orascom Construction, the project aims to connect millions of people with fast, reliable, and sustainable transport.
Egypt is building a 2,000-kilometre high-speed network comprising three main lines that will connect Cairo, Ain Sokhna, Alexandria, Marsa Matrouh, Luxor, and Aswan – reaching nearly 90% of the population. Once complete, it will become the sixth-largest high-speed rail system in the world, cutting travel times by up to 50% and significantly reducing CO₂ emissions.
Adapting high-speed technology for Egypt’s environment
The Velaro high-speed train, built specifically for Egypt’s desert conditions, can reach speeds of up to 250 km/h and accommodates 489 passengers. Drawing on decades of global experience, Siemens Mobility has optimised the train for maximum durability and performance in extreme climates.
Using Altair’s digital twin tools, engineers enhanced the design to counter the effects of heat, sand, and dust through robust filtration and advanced cooling systems. The result is a train capable of maintaining reliability, safety, and comfort even in harsh desert environments.
“We are witnessing the future of mobility in Egypt take shape,” said Roland Busch, President and CEO of Siemens AG. “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.”
The Desiro HC: regional connectivity for a growing network
Alongside the Velaro, Siemens Mobility’s Desiro High-Capacity (HC) regional train completed its first test run west of Cairo. The train is designed for the Green Line, a 660-kilometre route linking Cairo with Ain Sokhna, Alexandria, and Marsa Matrouh – a corridor often described as the “Suez Canal on Rails.”
Each Desiro HC offers 849 passenger spaces, air conditioning, ETCS Level 2 train protection, wheelchair access, and a top speed of 160 km/h. The fleet of 94 Desiro HC units will form the backbone of Egypt’s regional service, ensuring fast, comfortable, and energy-efficient travel.
“The inaugural ride of the Desiro regional train and the arrival of the Velaro marks a defining moment in Egypt’s transport modernization strategy,” said H.E. Lieutenant General Kamel El-Wazir, Minister of Transport. “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.”
Building one of the world’s largest high-speed networks
Egypt’s high-speed project will ultimately cover over 2,000 kilometres, linking key cities and industrial centres across the country. The system will consist of 41 Velaro high-speed trains, 94 Desiro HC regional trains, and 41 Vectron locomotives, all supported by a 15-year Siemens Mobility maintenance commitment.
The project’s scope and ambition place Egypt at the forefront of sustainable transport development in the Middle East and Africa. It will improve access to jobs, tourism, and services, while setting new standards for speed, safety, and energy efficiency.
“The inaugural milestones of the Velaro and Desiro HC highlight Egypt’s bold vision to transform mobility,” said Michael Peter, CEO of Siemens Mobility. “We are proud to deliver technology that not only connects cities but also empowers people and supports economic growth through cleaner, faster, and smarter rail transport.”
The company’s 15-year maintenance programme covers the entire railway system, ensuring operational reliability and lifecycle performance. Digital asset management, predictive maintenance, and workforce training will be central to maintaining the network’s efficiency and safety.
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