Egypt has inked a 15-year contract with a consortium of Deutsche Bahn International Operations (DB) and El Sewedy Electric to operate its high-speed electric rail network, starting with the inaugural Sokhna–Matrouh line. According to a statement from the transport ministry, the deal is part of a broader effort to partner with leading global operators to bring international expertise to Egypt's rail sector. Deutsche Bahn, a world leader in rail management, operates all rail lines in Germany and numerous networks abroad. Transport Minister Kamel El-Wazir highlighted Deutsche Bahn's global stature, noting the company runs all rail lines in Germany and manages networks in multiple countries worldwide. Under the agreement, the network's three lines will be run by a single operator, reducing coordination challenges between multiple operators. The consortium is required to ensure that Egyptian staff make up at least 95 per cent of the workforce, fostering knowledge transfer and local capacity building, El-Wazir added. The partnership includes extensive training for Egyptian engineers, technicians, and train drivers, with annual programmes in Germany to equip local staff with the skills to manage the high-speed network independently. The high-speed rail initiative is part of President Abdel Fattah El-Sisi's push for green, electric transportation, with the National Authority for Tunnels (NAT) currently constructing three lines totaling 2,000 km for passengers and freight. The system promises faster, higher-capacity travel, enhanced safety, and economic benefits, supporting tourism, industry, and urban development along its routes. Attribution: Amwal Al Ghad English
