Cairo Metro Extends Hours for Ramadan 2026 – Major Changes for Commuters in Egypt You Can’t Miss!

The Cairo Metro is adjusting its operations for Ramadan 2026 by extending its operating hours and implementing strategic changes to accommodate the shifting demands of passengers during the holy month. Starting on Thursday, February 19, the Ministry of Transport confirmed the changes to ensure that commuters can travel more conveniently and efficiently during Ramadan’s peak periods, especially during the evening rush leading up to Iftar.

Increased Passenger Traffic During Ramadan

Ramadan, the holy month of fasting for Muslims, typically causes significant shifts in the daily rhythms of life in Cairo. The Iftar meal, which marks the end of the daily fast at sunset, leads to a massive increase in passenger traffic as people head home to break their fast. To meet this growing demand, the Cairo Metro has made critical adjustments that will help ease the pressure on the city’s public transportation network.

One of the key changes to Cairo Metro‘s operations for Ramadan 2026 is the extended operating hours, ensuring that the metro can handle the surge in passengers. Here’s a breakdown of the new train schedules:

New Metro Operating Hours:

• Line 1 (Helwan – New Marg):
  • First Train: 5:15 AM
  • Last Train: 12:15 AM
• Line 2 (Shubra El Kheima – El Mounib):
  • First Train: 5:15 AM
  • Last Train from Shubra El Kheima: 12:30 AM
  • Last Train from El Mounib: 12:40 AM
• Line 3 (Green Line, Adly Mansour Cairo University):
  • First Train: 5:15 AM
  • Last Train from Adly Mansour: 12:06 AM
  • Last Train from Cairo University: 12:23 AM
• Line 3 (Adly Mansour Rod El Farag Corridor):
  • First Train from Adly Mansour: 5:20 AM
  • First Train from Rod El Farag: 5:15 AM
  • Last Train from Adly Mansour: 12:02 AM
  • Last Train from Rod El Farag: 12:26 AM

Interchange and Transfer Times:

To facilitate smoother connections across different lines, Cairo Metro has also updated its interchange schedules. The last transfers at major interchange stations will be as follows:

• Anwar Sadat Station (Lines 1 & 2): Last transfer at 1:00 AM
• Gamal Abdel Nasser Station (Lines 1 & 3): Last transfer at 12:30 AM
• Attaba Station (Lines 2 & 3): Last transfer at 12:30 AM
• Cairo University Station (Lines 2 & 3): Last transfer at 12:15 AM

Reducing Wait Times and Overcrowding

To ensure that the Cairo Metro can handle the increased passenger load, especially during the late afternoon before Iftar, the headway times (time between two consecutive trains) will be reduced to 4.30 minutes during peak hours. This change aims to prevent overcrowding and ensure that trains are running as efficiently as possible during the period of heaviest demand. By shortening the interval between trains, Cairo Metro can accommodate more passengers and reduce the likelihood of overcrowded stations and platforms.

This adjustment is particularly important as Cairo is known for its crowded streets and public transportation system. During Ramadan, when many people are commuting to be home in time for Iftar, the increased flow of passengers can lead to long lines and delays. The reduced headway time will ensure that passengers can board the metro promptly, minimizing delays and making travel during Ramadan more comfortable for everyone.

Improving Accessibility for Commuters

These changes are a direct response to commuter feedback and efforts to improve public transport services during one of the busiest times of the year. By extending the metro’s hours and optimizing its services during peak times, Cairo Metro aims to enhance accessibility and ensure that Cairo residents can travel efficiently, whether for religious observance, work, or socializing with family during Ramadan.

In addition to extended hours and reduced headway times, Cairo Metro has implemented enhanced cleaning protocols and social distancing measures to provide a safe environment for passengers as they travel. This will help ensure that commuters feel secure and comfortable during their rides, particularly during Ramadan when metro stations tend to become more crowded.

A Positive Step for Cairo’s Public Transport System

The Cairo Metro’s decision to extend its hours and reduce wait times is a positive step for the city’s transportation infrastructure. As the largest and busiest metro system in Egypt, the Cairo Metro plays a crucial role in helping millions of people travel around the city each day. By addressing the challenges faced by commuters during Ramadan, Cairo Metro is demonstrating a commitment to improving the quality of life for its passengers.

As Cairo continues to grow and evolve, the metro system’s ability to adapt to the changing needs of its population will be key in managing urban mobility and supporting economic development. The expanded hours and optimized schedules during Ramadan will not only improve the commuting experience for residents but will also make Cairo Metro a more attractive option for tourists visiting the city during the holy month.

Looking Forward: Enhancing the Commuting Experience Year-Round

While the extended operating hours and reduced wait times during Ramadan are a welcome change, the Cairo Metro will likely continue to look for additional ways to improve its services beyond the holy month. In the future, we may see further upgrades to infrastructure, the introduction of new metro lines, or even the introduction of new technologies to streamline operations.

For now, commuters can enjoy a smoother and more efficient journey thanks to these adjustments, making their Ramadan travel experience more convenient and stress-free. Cairo Metro’s dedication to improving service during peak times reflects a broader commitment to enhancing urban mobility for all of its passengers, not just during Ramadan, but throughout the year.

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