Morocco’s King Mohammed VI Launches $5.3 Billion Kenitra-Marrakech High-Speed Rail Project

Rabat, Morocco – On April 24, 2025, His Majesty King Mohammed VI officiated the groundbreaking ceremony for the Kenitra-Marrakech high-speed rail line (LGV) at Rabat-Agdal train station, marking a transformative step in Morocco’s railway infrastructure. Spanning 430 kilometers, this 53 billion dirham ($5.3 billion) project underscores Morocco’s commitment to sustainable development and enhanced connectivity, aligning with the Kingdom’s vision for a low-carbon, integrated transportation system.

A Vision for Sustainable Mobility

The Kenitra-Marrakech high-speed rail project, excluding rolling stock costs, is part of a broader 96 billion dirham ($9.6 billion) investment program by the Moroccan National Railway Office (ONCF). It aims to modernize the national rail network, positioning it as the backbone of a sustainable transport system, as reported by Barlaman Today. The initiative promotes low-carbon mobility solutions, addressing urban challenges in major cities like Rabat, Casablanca, and Marrakech while supporting economic growth.

Enhanced Connectivity and Reduced Travel Times

The new rail line will connect Rabat, Casablanca, and Marrakech, with stops at Rabat and Casablanca airports, significantly reducing travel times. Upon completion, the journey from Tangier to Rabat will take just one hour, Tangier to Casablanca one hour and 40 minutes, and Tangier to Marrakech two hours and 40 minutes—saving over two hours compared to current routes, according to Morocco World News. Additionally, a high-speed service from Fez to Marrakech will operate in three hours and 40 minutes, enhancing regional connectivity.

Project Details and Urban Impact

The project includes designing and building a high-speed line capable of speeds up to 350 km/h, upgrading existing stations, constructing new high-speed and suburban stations, and establishing a maintenance center in Marrakech. It will also connect Rabat to Mohammed V International Airport in Casablanca in just 35 minutes, with a stop at the new Benslimane stadium. By freeing up capacity on conventional lines, the project will enable the development of urban commuter train services in Rabat, Casablanca, and Marrakech, improving punctuality, service quality, and sustainability, as noted by Railway Supply.

Massive Investment in Rolling Stock

Alongside the rail line construction, the ONCF launched a 29 billion dirham ($2.9 billion) program to acquire 168 new trains, including 18 high-speed trains, 40 intercity trains, 60 rapid shuttle trains, and 50 urban transit trains. This fleet renewal aims to meet rising passenger demand by 2030, enhance regional services, and support Morocco’s hosting of the 2030 FIFA World Cup, per Capgemini. The program involves global partners like Alstom (France), CAF (Spain), and Hyundai Rotem (South Korea), ensuring cutting-edge technology and preferential financing.

Boosting the National Economy

The rolling stock acquisition program will foster a railway industrial ecosystem in Morocco, with a local integration rate exceeding 40%. It includes establishing a local train manufacturing unit, a supplier network, and a joint venture with the ONCF for maintenance, creating thousands of direct and indirect jobs over a decade, as highlighted by Morocco World News. This initiative supports the national economy by reducing transport costs and promoting sustainable development.

Conclusion: A Railway Renaissance

The launch of the Kenitra-Marrakech high-speed rail line marks a new era for Morocco’s railway network, driving modernization, urban mobility, and economic growth. Under King Mohammed VI’s leadership, this project not only extends the high-speed network but also establishes Morocco as a leader in African rail innovation, setting the stage for enhanced connectivity and sustainability ahead of global events like the 2030 FIFA World Cup.

Stay updated on Morocco’s railway developments and infrastructure projects with our ongoing coverage.