Egypt all set to launch Alexandria Metro Phase 1 by 2026

Alexandria, Egypt (Metro Rail Today): Alexandria, the famed “Bride of the Mediterranean,” is preparing for one of the most transformative mobility upgrades in its modern history. While the city is home to one of the world’s oldest tram systems, the need for a high-capacity, rapid transit solution has been felt for decades. That long-awaited transition is now underway, with the first phase of the Alexandria Metro scheduled to become operational in 2026.

Phase 1 of the project, implemented by Egypt’s National Authority for Tunnels (NAT), involves the full electrification and conversion of the 21.7 km Abu Qir suburban railway into a modern metro line stretching from Misr Station to Abu Qir Station. The upgrade includes 20 stations, 14 of which will be elevated, designed to integrate modern infrastructure within Alexandria’s dense and historic urban fabric. This transformation represents one of the most technically demanding railway-to-metro conversions currently underway in the Middle East and North Africa region.

Once operational, the metro is expected to dramatically reshape the daily commute. Passenger capacity will surge from the current 2,850 passengers per hour per direction to an impressive 60,000. The line’s operating speed will increase to 100 km/h, cutting end-to-end travel time from nearly 50 minutes to just 25 minutes. Train frequency will also see a major jump, with headways reducing from 10 minutes to 2.5 minutes, ensuring consistent, high-frequency services for residents.

Backed by Global Expertise and International Financing

The project carries an estimated value of €1.3 billion and is being executed by a consortium led by Orascom Construction PLC and Colas Rail, both global leaders in rapid transit infrastructure. Its financing structure underscores strong international confidence, with support from the European Investment Bank (EIB), the European Bank for Reconstruction & Development (EBRD), the Agence Française de Développement (AFD) and the Asian Infrastructure Investment Bank (AIIB). The collaboration highlights the metro’s strategic importance not only for Alexandria but for Egypt’s broader mobility agenda.

Offering an industry viewpoint, Mrs. Mamta Shah, MD & CEO of Urban Infra Group, said, “The Alexandria Metro showcases how global partnerships and forward-looking planning can deliver transformative urban mobility. By converting legacy rail into a modern metro, Egypt is creating a blueprint for cities across the developing world seeking sustainable, high-capacity transit solutions.”

Building a Future-Ready Transit Network

Phase 1 is only the beginning. Two additional phases are planned, extending the line westwards to El Max and further onward with a 15.5 km stretch to Borg El Arab. The final phase is poised to provide a vital interchange with the upcoming El Alamein–New Capital high-speed railway, integrating Alexandria directly into Egypt’s growing national rail grid.

With its blend of historical legacy and modern ambitions, Alexandria is on the cusp of a mobility revolution. The upcoming metro system promises to redefine how people move across the city, stimulate local economic activity and reinforce Alexandria’s status as a rising global hub—one where the future of transport is arriving at full speed.