In a meeting held on Thursday, on preparations for the 2030 FIFA World Cup to be co-hosted by Morocco, Portugal, and Spain, Morocco’s central and local government officials announced a number of infrastructure projects for Rabat, the capital of Morocco.
Morocco’s Minister of the Interior, Abdelouafi Laftit, and Faouzi Lekjaa, President of the Royal Moroccan Football Federation (FRMF), led the meeting and reviewed significant infrastructure developments that are currently underway in the Rabat-Sale-Kenitra area as well as plans for new projects. They include the construction of new roads and highways, the expansion of existing roads, the building of new hotels, and the enhancement of public squares as well as green spaces. New underground parking facilities are also planned.
The Prince Moulay Abdellah sports complex is being renovated to meet international standards. Over 40% of the works has already been completed.
The newly proposed design will increase the stadium’s capacity from 45,000 to 65,000 spectators. The refurbished stadium will include covered stands and a two-level underground car parking area, with space for 5,200 cars. There are plans for a new direct entrance for visitors arriving from Casablanca via the highway, as well as a tramway connection.
Authorities have approved the expansion of the Rabat-Sale-Temara tramway network. The project will extend approximately 45 kilometers of tramway lines in two phases by 2030. Phase 1, to be completed by 2028, will cover 23.7 kilometers. Phase 2, to be completed by 2030, will cover 21.3 kilometers
A second terminal at Rabat-Salé airport is nearing completion, and a high-speed rail tunnel linking Kenitra and Marrakech is under construction. Upon completion, these improvements are expected to facilitate the arrival of tourists both from within the kingdom and internationally, particularly those interested in football.
The Rabat coastline is gearing up for significant transformation to establish it as a hub for tourism, entertainment, and high-rise residential projects. The area will include public areas, shops, tourist facilities, and green spaces.
The existing Mohammed VI Tower and Grand Theatre of Rabat will contribute to the city’s overall appeal as a destination. The Grand Theatre is situated on a 7-hectare site along the Bouregreg River, near Hassan Tower and the Mohammed V Mausoleum. The facility includes a 7,000-seat theatre and a 1,900-seat performance hall.
At a height of 250 meters and 55 floors, the Mohammed VI Tower is the tallest building in Africa and is also an integral part of the Bouregreg River area development.
At the end of the meeting, Lekjaa underlined the importance of these projects in the development of Rabat into a city that is up to world standards. “These infrastructure developments will not only prepare us for the 2030 FIFA World Cup, but will also improve our potential to host other major events,” he said.
Minister Laftit also underscored the collaborative efforts required to achieve these ambitious goals. “Coordination between various sectors is crucial for the success of these projects,” he underlined.