Hitachi Rail to modernise Alexandria Raml Tram

Hitachi Rail has secured a major contract from the Hassan Allam Construction and Arab Contractors joint venture to modernise and upgrade the historic Alexandria Raml Tram, transforming it into a modern, efficient and digitally connected transport system.

Under the agreement, Hitachi Rail will deliver an advanced suite of systems designed to enhance safety, reliability and operational performance. These include state-of-the-art signalling and communications technologies (both fixed and wireless), an Operational Control Centre, Supervisory Control and Data Acquisition (SCADA) systems, security solutions with CCTV and access control, as well as passenger information and on-board equipment.

This comprehensive modernisation aims to bring Alexandria’s tram system in line with Egypt’s Vision 2030 for sustainable development by significantly improving efficiency, reducing emissions and enhancing passenger comfort.

The Alexandria El Raml Tram, the oldest in both the Middle East and Africa, first began operations in 1863 and was last upgraded in the 1960s. Despite its age, it remains one of the few tramways in the world that still operates double-deck trams in regular service.

The current rehabilitation project will include the reconstruction of 24 stations and 13.2 km of tram track. Once completed, the upgraded line is expected to reduce travel time from 60 to 35 minutes, double the operating speed from 11 km/h to 21 km/h, and decrease headway from nine minutes to just three. Passenger capacity will also triple from 4,700 to 13,800 passengers per hour per direction, easing congestion and contributing to a greener, more efficient public transport network across Alexandria.

The Alexandria El Raml Tram Rehabilitation marks a significant milestone for Hitachi Rail, further solidifying its position in the region’s growing metro and railway markets. The project follows a contract signed earlier this year between Hassan Allam Construction, Arab Contractors JV, and the National Authority for Tunnels for the tram’s rehabilitation.

Investing in digital innovation

Hitachi Rail continues to deepen its presence in Egypt through strategic localisation and technological investment. The company has developed local teams across engineering, finance, legal, and other disciplines to deliver projects and support customers effectively. Its Communications-Based Train Control (CBTC) systems now include local Integration, Verification, Validation, and Qualification (IVVQ) activities, while its Automated Fare Collection (AFC) initiatives are creating high-tech jobs and promoting workforce diversity. These efforts align with Egypt’s national development strategy and strengthen the country’s role as a regional hub for rail innovation.

Through its digital solutions, Hitachi Rail is focused on improving the passenger journey by integrating public information systems and AFC platforms that facilitate seamless travel across metro, LRT, and monorail networks. In Alexandria, the Abu Qir Metro will feature Hitachi’s TRANSCITY AFC technology, enabling 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, said, “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.”