The banks of the Nile in Cairo are set to witness an extraordinary sight — a bus capable of gliding from the busy city streets directly into the river. Egypt’s first amphibious bus, scheduled for trial operations before the end of 2025, represents a major step forward in modernizing the nation’s transport infrastructure and enhancing sustainable tourism.
Developed through collaboration between Egypt’s transport and tourism sectors, the amphibious vehicle will initially operate in Cairo, Luxor, and Aswan, serving exclusively as a tourism experience rather than public transport. The service will allow visitors to explore Egypt’s most iconic landmarks by both land and water in a single, uninterrupted journey.
To support the new system, special transition lanes are being constructed to enable smooth movement between road and river. The bus, equipped with advanced safety technologies, is currently undergoing testing to ensure optimal performance before its official launch.
Beyond its novelty, the project reflects Egypt’s growing commitment to eco-friendly mobility. River transportation provides a sustainable alternative to congested roads, helping to reduce both carbon emissions and fuel consumption.
The amphibious bus forms part of a broader national plan to expand and modernize Egypt’s river transport network. Over the past decade, investments exceeding LE 4 billion have boosted the number of operational river units from 289 in 2014 to 400 in 2023, currently carrying around 18 million passengers and 7 million tonnes of goods each year. By 2030, the fleet is expected to reach 520 units, with the capacity to transport 21 million passengers annually.
This initiative not only supports Egypt’s environmental goals but also strengthens its position as a global tourism hub. By merging cultural exploration with sustainable innovation, the amphibious bus promises a truly unique way to experience the timeless beauty of the Nile.
