Morocco Approves $10.3 Billion Rail Expansion, Including High-Speed Link to Marrakesh by 2030

Morocco’s King Mohammed VI has approved a landmark rail expansion plan valued at 96 billion dirhams ($10.3 billion), paving the way for a new high-speed line to Marrakesh by 2030, state media reported on Thursday.

The ambitious initiative aligns with Morocco’s preparations to co-host the 2030 FIFA World Cup alongside Spain and Portugal, driving a broader strategy to enhance the kingdom’s transport infrastructure and stimulate its emerging rail industry.

At the heart of the plan is a 53 billion dirham ($5.7 billion) high-speed railway stretching 430 kilometres from Kenitra on the Atlantic coast to Marrakesh, passing through Rabat and Casablanca. Trains on the line will be capable of speeds up to 350 kilometres per hour, significantly reducing travel times.

Once completed, the journey from Tangier to Marrakesh will be slashed by two hours to 2 hours and 40 minutes. Travel from Rabat to Casablanca’s main international airport will take just 35 minutes.

Expanding Connectivity Across Morocco

The state-owned rail operator, ONCF, announced in February that it had secured contracts to purchase 168 trains from France, Spain, and South Korea for 29 billion dirhams ($3.1 billion). The acquisitions form part of a wider strategy to double the number of cities served by Morocco’s rail network to 43 by 2040, aiming to cover 87% of the national population.

French rail manufacturer Alstom will supply ONCF with its Avelia Horizon double-decker high-speed trains, designed to carry 640 passengers at cruising speeds of 320 kilometres per hour.

The remainder of the fleet will focus on expanding intercity and urban services, improving domestic mobility and fostering regional integration.

The contracts also include provisions to invest in Morocco’s rail industry, with plans to bolster local production capacity, technical expertise, and employment in the sector.

Supporting Economic Growth and Global Partnerships

Morocco’s rail expansion is set to enhance its reputation as a North African transport hub and strengthen economic ties with international partners. By boosting connectivity between major urban centres, the government aims to unlock new opportunities in tourism, trade, and industrial development.

The World Cup co-hosting role has accelerated the pace of infrastructure projects, with rail upgrades expected to play a key role in facilitating the movement of fans and goods during the global sporting event.

As Morocco positions itself at the forefront of high-speed rail development in Africa, the expansion reflects both national ambitions and a broader commitment to sustainable, integrated transport solutions.