The Government of Morocco has officially approved a monumental MAD380 billion ($41 billion) investment package aimed at a nationwide infrastructure overhaul in preparation for co-hosting the 2030 FIFA World Cup. This strategic spending is designed to upgrade and expand the country’s transport and logistics networks, positioning Morocco as a world-class destination for the global event.
A Budget for a Legacy
The substantial allocation is a cornerstone of the country’s 2026 budget, which forecasts total spending of MAD761 billion. According to Nadia Alaoui, Minister of Economy and Finance, this significant investment effort will be strategically directed at funding key infrastructure projects across various sectors and regions. The plan underscores a national priority to accelerate the execution of critical transport and logistics initiatives that will serve the country long after the tournament concludes.
Fast-Tracking National Connectivity
A major focus of the investment is the completion and expansion of Morocco’s rail system, particularly the high-speed train project. The plans include establishing a fast-train network linking the economic hub of Casablanca with the tourist centre of Marrakesh and other key areas. To bolster this expansion, Morocco intends to purchase 168 new trains for approximately $2.9 billion. This initiative aims to nearly double rail transport capacity from 53 million passengers in 2024 to well over 100 million by the end of 2030, fundamentally reshaping national mobility.
Upgrading Air Travel Hubs
Air travel infrastructure will see a massive upgrade to handle the influx of international visitors. The projects include the construction of a new civilian airport in Casablanca at a cost of MD28 billion. Furthermore, significant expansions are planned for the airports in the capital city of Rabat, Marrakesh, and Fez, among others. These enhancements are critical to bolstering the national airline’s fleet and improving overall airport capacity and efficiency across the country.
About Morocco’s 2030 World Cup Initiative
Morocco’s 2030 World Cup Initiative is a large-scale national development plan to prepare the country for co-hosting the FIFA World Cup alongside Spain and Portugal. The initiative encompasses approximately 35 major infrastructure projects across nearly 35 cities, with a total investment projected to exceed $34 billion over five years. The primary focus is on upgrading transportation infrastructure, including railways, airports, and roads, to meet international standards and accommodate the massive influx of teams, officials, and fans expected for the global sporting event.
Source: AGBI
