Egypt launches trial passenger train service on newly rebuilt Sinai rail line

CAIRO – 7 October 2024: For the first time in years, a passenger train has crossed into Sinai as part of Egypt’s ongoing efforts to revitalize its transportation infrastructure. The Ministry of Transport has launched a trial operation of the Al-Fardan–Bir al-Abd railway line, stretching 100 km in Sinai.

The inauguration was overseen by the Deputy Prime Minister for Industrial Development, Minister of Industry and Transport, Kamel al-Wazir, along with senior officials from the Ministry of Transport and the Railway Authority.

This project marks the completion of the first phase in the renovation and development of the Al-Fardan–Bir al-Abd railway, which is part of a larger 500 km rail network linking Al-Fardan, East Port Said, Bir al-Abd, Arish, and Taba. The line is a crucial component of the new Arish–Taba logistical corridor, which aims to boost development across Sinai.

Trial Phase and Future Plans for Rail Services in Sinai

The railway line was first reopened for cargo transport, with Minister Kamel al-Wazir announcing on August 6, the successful passage of the first freight train. The train carried 25 transit containers (40 feet each) from Alexandria’s Container Terminal in Dekheila to East Port Said via a transfer station located at Kilometer 8, which serves as a cargo exchange point between trains and trucks.

Minister al-Wazir emphasized that the trial phase for freight services will soon be followed by passenger services, marking a significant enhancement in the transport system across Sinai.

He added that the new Arish–Taba logistical corridor will play a key role in comprehensive development efforts in Sinai and offer substantial economic benefits to the region. It is expected to serve the residents of North, Central, and South Sinai.

National Strategic Importance of the Project

This project is part of the Egyptian government’s broader plan to develop Sinai across multiple sectors. The reactivation of the Al-Fardan–Bir al-Abd railway line will contribute to the nation’s overall cargo transport system. It will facilitate the transportation of goods between residential, industrial, and mining zones in Sinai, connecting factories to railway links for export through Arish and Taba ports.

The new railway line will integrate with Egypt’s national rail network, contributing to the realization of developmental goals for the Sinai Peninsula, known as the "Land of Fayrouz."

This project represents a significant milestone in improving transportation infrastructure in Sinai, supporting Egypt’s long-term vision for the region’s economic and social development.