Hitachi Rail wins contract to modernise and upgrade Alexandria Raml Tram
Alexandria El Raml Tram dates back to 1863, operates on aging infrastructure and was last modernised in the 1960s
The Hassan Allam Construction and Arab Contractors JV has awarded Hitachi Rail a contract to modernise and upgrade Alexandria Raml Tram, transforming it into a reliable, efficient, and digitally enhanced transport system.
To enhance both reliability and operational efficiency, Hitachi Rail will deliver advanced signalling and communications systems (fixed and wireless communications), operational control centre and supervisory control & data acquisition – SCADA, security systems with CCTV cameras and access control, passenger information and on-board equipment. The solution of Hitachi Rail will significantly enhance train operations, ensuring a fast, secure, and efficient public transportation system that aligns with Egypt’s Vision 2030 for sustainable development, said a statement from Hitachi Rail.
Being the oldest tramline in both the Middle East & Africa, Alexandria El Raml Tram dates back to 1863, operates on aging infrastructure and was last modernised in the 1960s. Remarkably, it remains one of the few tramways in the world to run double-deck trams in regular service, the statement said.
The project’s scope encompasses the reconstruction of 24 stations and 13.2km of tram track, and its upgrade is designed to improve service efficiency by reducing travel time from 60 to 35 minutes, doubling operational speed from 11km/h to 21km/h, and decreasing headway from nine minutes to just three.
Once completed, the upgraded tramline is expected to triple passenger capacity from 4,700 to 13,800 passengers per hour per direction, contributing to enhanced urban mobility while alleviating traffic congestion and lowering CO2 emissions across the city, the firm noted.
The Alexandria El Raml Tram Rehabilitation contract is said to represent a major milestone for strengthening Hitachi Rail’s presence in metro and railway systems. Earlier this year, Hassan Allam Construction and Arab Contractors JV had signed a contract for the Alexandria Raml Tram Rehabilitation Project awarded by the National Authority for Tunnels.
Joaquim Santos, Signalling and Rail Solutions (SRS) OPPS – ICS stated, “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.”
Hitachi Rail also said that it continues to invest in Egypt through strategic localisation and digital innovation. Local teams have been built across engineering, finance, legal and other disciplines to deliver projects and support customers. CBTC systems now include localized IVVQ activities, and AFC initiatives are creating high-tech jobs and promoting diversity. These efforts align with Egypt’s national strategy and aim to expand beyond the country, the firm explained.
Digital solutions like integrated public information systems and AFC platforms enhance passenger experience and enable seamless travel across metro, LRT and monorail networks. In Alexandria, the Abu Qir Metro will feature TRANSCITY AFC technology, offering multiple payment options including QR codes, contactless cards, EMV bank cards and NFC mobile payments, it added.
Carlo Piacenza, Signalling and Rail Solutions (SRS) MEA Regional Director concluded, “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 modernization of tramway systems.”
