Alexandria Bids Farewell To Historic Tram

The oldest tram in Africa and the Middle East to be removed in latest urban changes.

Published on Feb. 25, 2026

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After over a century of service, the historic tram system in Alexandria, Egypt is set to be removed in the coming weeks, the latest in a series of urban changes that locals say are eroding the city's identity.

Why it matters

The tram has been a beloved and iconic part of Alexandria's landscape for generations, serving as an important mode of public transportation. Its removal is seen by many as a symbol of the broader gentrification and modernization efforts transforming the city, which some residents fear is coming at the cost of the city's unique cultural heritage.

The details

The tram system, which first began operating in 1863, is the oldest in Africa and the Middle East. It has long been a fixture of daily life in Alexandria, providing affordable and reliable transportation for residents. However, city officials have decided to remove the tram lines as part of a broader infrastructure overhaul aimed at reducing traffic congestion and updating the city's transportation network.

  • The tram system has been operating in Alexandria since 1863.
  • The tram lines are set to be removed in the coming weeks.

The players

Alexandria

A coastal city in Egypt along the Mediterranean Sea, known for its rich history and culture.

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The takeaway

The removal of Alexandria's historic tram system represents a larger trend of urban renewal that is transforming the city, raising concerns among residents about the potential loss of the city's unique identity and cultural heritage.