Cairo Metro Line 4 first phase to open in 2028 as tunneling milestone reached across Greater Cairo, marking a decisive shift in Egypt’s urban transport expansion. The $4.5 billion Cairo Metro Line 4 construction project now advances after completing a key tunneling breakthrough beneath Giza. Moreover, the line strengthens integration between 6th of October City and New Cairo through a high-capacity underground system. Authorities confirmed the first phase will open in the first half of 2028.
Additionally, the milestone follows activation of a tunnel boring machine by President Abdel Fattah Al-Sisi. The machine completed a critical segment linking Hadaeq El Ashgar and Pyramids stations. Consequently, engineers now accelerate excavation works across multiple underground corridors. The project also supports Egypt’s long-term mobility strategy focused on sustainable mass transit.
Furthermore, the Cairo Metro Line 4 first phase to open in 2028 as tunneling milestone reached highlights strong coordination between state institutions and international partners. Japanese cooperation through JICA continues to support technical and financial execution. Meanwhile, Egyptian contractors drive civil works across the alignment.
Cairo Metro Line 4 expands Giza corridor works
Cairo Metro Line 4 first phase to open in 2028 as tunneling milestone reached strengthens underground construction activity along a 6.35-kilometre tunnel segment. The breakthrough connects key stations, including Hadaeq El Ashgar and Pyramids. Moreover, six tunnel boring machines now operate simultaneously, a first for Egypt’s metro system.
Additionally, the 19-kilometre first phase includes 17 stations. Sixteen stations sit underground, while one operates at surface level. The alignment passes major landmarks such as the Grand Egyptian Museum and Remaya Square. Consequently, construction teams intensify structural lining, rail preparation, and station box development.
Furthermore, the line intersects with Metro Line 2 at Giza Station and Line 1 at El-Malek El-Saleh. Therefore, engineers design the system for seamless passenger interchange across Greater Cairo. Meanwhile, the project targets up to 2 million daily passengers once fully operational.
In addition, civil works progress under Egyptian contractors Arab Contractors, Orascom Construction, Concord, Petrojet, and Hassan Allam Construction. Each contractor manages specific tunneling and station packages. Moreover, coordination ensures synchronized delivery across multiple construction fronts.
Cairo Metro Line 4 enhances urban connectivity
Cairo Metro Line 4 first phase to open in 2028 as tunneling milestone reached improves connectivity between dense residential and commercial zones. The route links Haram, Faisal, Omraneya, Giza, Nasr City, Al-Azhar University, and New Cairo. Consequently, commuters gain faster access across previously congested corridors.
Additionally, the system integrates with future transport networks. Phase 2 will connect with Line 6 and East Nile Monorail. Phase 3 will link to the West Nile Monorail. Meanwhile, Phase 4 will connect to the Light Rail Transit system at the Capital Airport.
Moreover, Mitsubishi and Orascom manage electromechanical systems, track installation, and workshops. Mitsubishi also manufactures 23 trains for the line. The first train delivery is expected in early May 2026. Therefore, rolling stock readiness aligns closely with tunnelling completion.
Furthermore, government oversight continues to prioritize safety, efficiency, and timely delivery. Officials push for continuous monitoring of construction activities. In addition, authorities emphasize linking high-density districts with environmentally friendly transport options.
The tunneling progress on Cairo Metro Line 4 aligns with wider international cooperation efforts shaping Egypt’s rail expansion strategy. Notably, as covered in Egypt and France advance cooperation on Cairo Metro and Alstom complex projects, the country is strengthening partnerships to support metro development, signaling systems, and rolling stock delivery. This coordination reinforces delivery timelines for Line 4 while also enhancing technical integration across Egypt’s growing urban rail network.
Project Fact Sheet
Project name: Cairo Metro Line 4 (Phase 1)
Location: Greater Cairo, Egypt
Total project value: $4.5 billion
Phase 1 length: 19 km
Stations: 17 (16 underground, 1 surface)
Capacity: Up to 2 million passengers daily (full line)
Completion target (Phase 1): First half of 2028
Tunnel milestone: 6.35 km segment completed between Hadaeq El Ashgar and Pyramids
Tunneling method: Multiple TBMs (six operating simultaneously)
Key interchanges: Line 1, Line 2, future Line 6, Monorail networks, LRT
Project Team
Client / Owner: National Authority for Tunnels (NAT), Egypt
Chairman: Tarek El-Gouweily
Lead government oversight: Ministry of Transport, Egypt
Executive leadership: Government of Egypt under President Abdel Fattah Al-Sisi
Civil contractors: Arab Contractors, Orascom Construction, Concord, Petrojet, Hassan Allam Construction
Electromechanical systems & rolling stock: Mitsubishi Corporation (in consortium with Orascom Construction)
International partner: Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA)
Key stakeholders: Greater Cairo transport authorities and urban development agencies
