The story behind choosing the Eye of Horus as East Nile Monorail’s visual identity

CAIRO - 7 May 2026: With the launch of the first phase of the East Nile Monorail project, the National Authority for Tunnels highlighted the visual identity of this smart, massive project: the Eye of Horus. This symbol was chosen for what it represents: protection and the keen insight of the ancient Egyptians.

The Authority explained on its social media pages that the logo adorning the front of the train is not merely a visual symbol, but a message affirming its identity. The Eye of Horus depicts the meticulous planning and operational safety that the Authority strives to ensure in every detail of the smart train's daily journeys.

The Horus wing, on the other hand, represents the streamlined train soaring above the roads, connecting the present with the future of the New Administrative Capital.

The National Authority for Tunnels explained that this logo stands as a testament that the builders of this sustainable, smart transportation means harness technology to serve their nation and preserve the grandiose of their ancestors’ history.

Horus is one of the most important and oldest dieties of ancient Egypt. He is depicted as a falcon or a man with a falcon's head and represents the god of the sky, the sun, war, and protection. In Egyptian mythology, Horus was believed to be the son of Osiris and Isis, who fought for his father’s throne against his uncle, ‘Set,’ and became a symbol of kingship and legitimacy. Egyptians considered each legitimate pharaoh a "living Horus" on Earth.

Horus also represented goodness, vengeance, and strict order for the Egyptians. And for this, many temples were built in his honor.

As one of the ancient Egyptian myths tells us, Horus went to the realm of the dead and offered his eye as a sacrifice for his father, and with this sacrifice, Osiris was resurrected and his spirit was restored.

Therefore, whoever carries the amulet of the Eye of Horus becomes a living sacrifice walking on two feet. Ancient Egyptians believed that if a person put the amulet of Horus around their neck, they would be offering their soul as a gift to the Creator, thus protecting themselves from all evil.