Egypt is preparing to launch one of its most transformative public transport projects to date: the Cairo Monorail. After drawing public attention during its passenger-free inauguration in November 2025, the monorail is expected to begin full operations by the end of January 2026, offering a faster, cleaner, and more reliable way to move across Greater Cairo and its rapidly growing surrounding cities.
Designed to reduce congestion and improve daily mobility, the Cairo Monorail consists of two main lines. The East Nile Line runs for 54 kilometres between New Administrative Capital and East Cairo, passing through 22 stations and intersecting with Cairo Metro Line 3 at Stadium Station. The West Nile Line spans 42 kilometres, connecting 6th of October City with Giza Governorate via 12 stations, and links to Metro Line 3 at Nile Valley Station. Together, the two lines create a new backbone for urban transport between Cairo and emerging cities.
One of the project’s most notable features is its technology. The Cairo Monorail is the first fully driverless monorail system in Africa. Operations will be managed from a central control centre in the New Administrative Capital, using advanced cameras, sensors, communication systems, and fire safety technology to ensure efficiency and passenger safety.
Travel time is one of the project’s biggest advantages. Journeys on the East Line are expected to take around 60 minutes, while trips on the West Line will take approximately 42 minutes. The electric-powered trains can reach speeds of up to 80 km/h and are designed to transport more than 600,000 passengers per day, offering a practical alternative to road travel.
The monorail is set to be an attractive option for daily commuters as well as visitors navigating Greater Cairo.
From an environmental perspective, the monorail represents a significant step toward sustainable urban transport. Operating entirely on electricity, it will help reduce carbon emissions, lower air pollution, and ease traffic pressure on some of Cairo’s busiest roads. By integrating seamlessly with the existing metro network, the project supports a broader shift toward smarter, more efficient mobility across the capital.
As Cairo continues to expand, the monorail marks a major evolution in how people move through the city — connecting old urban centres with new developments, saving time, lowering costs, and improving quality of life. For residents and visitors alike, it signals a future where navigating Cairo is faster, cleaner, and more predictable.
