Taking the Train in Egypt
Trains are a common way to travel from Cairo to Alexandria, Luxor or Aswan. Here is what Egyptian National Railways (ENR) has said about booking, plus travel tips.
Where to book
- In a public statement, ENR said:
- Tickets are sold at **station windows and kiosks**, on the **ENR website**, and through the **ENR mobile app**;
- ENR is the body responsible for train ticketing, has taken legal action against private companies claiming to sell its tickets, and urges the public to deal with ENR directly.
Booking as a foreigner
- Fares for foreign passengers differ, so bring your **passport** when booking;
- Egyptian press reported in late 2025 that ENR opened online/app booking of seated trains to foreigners for travel from 1 January 2026 — check ENR's site or station staff for current details;
- Major stations such as Cairo's Ramses station have a booking office for Arab and foreign travellers.
Travel checklist
- Check schedules on the ENR website in advance;
- Carry your original passport; the name on the ticket should match;
- Arrive early for security and to find your platform;
- On long trips bring water and an extra layer;
- Keep valuables with you.
Safety
The Chinese Embassy advises care when crossing roads and keeping family informed of your plans, especially when heading to areas with weak signal.
Reminder
- Schedules, fares and booking rules change; check with Egyptian National Railways.
- Compiled by Wang Fu Egypt for general guidance. For up-to-date details, please refer to Egyptian National Railways.
Sources
- Egyptian National Railways – website: https://www.enr.gov.eg/En/
- El Watan – ENR statement on authorised booking channels (2019): https://www.elwatannews.com/news/details/4373401 (non-government / press)
- Al-Dostor – foreigners can book seated trains online from 1 Jan 2026 (press): https://www.dostor.org/5363652 (non-government / press)
- 中国驻埃及使馆 20 Sep 2026 提醒(交通安全、保持联络): https://eg.china-embassy.gov.cn/lsfw/2018/0517/202609/t20260920_12027157.htm
Your first week in Egypt
- Get a local SIM card and save key addresses in Arabic.
- Keep some Egyptian pounds in cash and use official exchange channels.
- Check your health insurance and the nearest hospital.
- Save emergency numbers and your embassy contact from its official website.
- Install a ride-hailing app and find the supermarket and pharmacy near your home.
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