Egypt prepares for winter time transition and high-speed rail expansion

Egypt is preparing to implement winter time starting Friday, October 30, 2026. Following Law No. 24 of 2023, clocks will be set back 60 minutes at midnight to conserve energy and reduce electricity loads. This transition affects various public services, including metro and light rail (LRT) schedules, as well as operating hours for shops, restaurants, and cafes.

In terms of infrastructure, construction is underway for Egypt’s first high-speed rail line, known as the Green Line. This 660-kilometer project, described by Transport Minister Kamel al-Wazir as a ‘new Suez Canal on rails,’ aims to connect the Red Sea to the Mediterranean. The project, which includes a $4.5 billion contract involving Siemens, is expected to be completed in 2026 and will link major hubs including the New Administrative Capital and the 6th of October City.