Egypt Launches Free Train Service for Voluntary Return of Sudanese Nationals
Egypt will provide a free train service on July 23 to facilitate the voluntary return of Sudanese nationals from Cairo to the Arqeen border via Aswan. The initiative is supported by Egyptian and Sudanese authorities and offers onboard medical and logistical support as part of broader repatriation efforts amidst Sudan's ongoing conflict.
Coordinated Humanitarian Effort Begins July 23
Egypt’s National Railways Authority will operate a free train service on Monday, July 23, to support the voluntary return of Sudanese nationals from Cairo to the Sudanese border, as part of broader humanitarian repatriation efforts.
Journey Details and Route
The designated third-class air-conditioned train (Train No. 1940) will depart Cairo at 11:00 AM and arrive in Aswan at 11:00 PM on the same day. From Aswan, passengers will continue their journey by road via High Dam Port to reach the Arqeen border crossing into Sudan.
Medical and Logistical Support
The operation is jointly coordinated by the Egyptian Ministries of Transport and Foreign Affairs in collaboration with Sudanese authorities. The train will provide onboard medical and logistical support, and the entire journey is free of charge for passengers.
Background: Sudan Conflict and Repatriation
This initiative comes amid ongoing conflict in Sudan, which has prompted mass displacement. The International Organization for Migration (IOM) has reported a rise in voluntary returns since January 2025, due to relative improvements in security in Khartoum. Egypt continues to host over 1.5 million Sudanese refugees, making it one of the primary host countries during the crisis.
