Morocco’s 2030 World Cup Stadiums: Rabat & Tangier Open in March, Ben Slimane in 2027

Morocco Gears Up for 2030 World Cup with Massive Infrastructure Overhaul
Morocco is pulling out all the stops in preparation for the 2030 FIFA World Cup, with significant investments in stadium renovations, new constructions, and transportation upgrades. Fouzi Lekjaa, head of the 2030 World Cup committee and president of the Royal Moroccan Football Federation (FRMF), recently announced exciting progress on several key projects.
Stadiums Ready for the Spotlight:
Football fans can look forward to revamped experiences in Rabat and Tangier, as renovations to the Moulay Abdellah and Tangier stadiums are slated for completion within the next two months. This rapid turnaround will ensure these venues are primed and ready to potentially host matches should the joint Morocco/Spain/Portugal bid be successful. Further upgrades are planned for stadiums in Fes, Marrakech, and Agadir following the conclusion of the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations, demonstrating Morocco’s commitment to maintaining world-class sporting facilities.
Perhaps the most ambitious project is the construction of the Grand Stade de Casablanca in Bensliman province. Expected to be completed by 2027, this stadium is poised to become one of the largest in the world, a testament to Morocco’s growing presence on the global sporting stage. While the exact capacity is yet to be confirmed, it’s anticipated to rival or even surpass other mega-stadiums like the Rungrado 1st of May Stadium in North Korea.
Connecting the Kingdom: High-Speed Rail and Beyond
Beyond stadiums, Morocco is investing heavily in its transportation infrastructure. A high-speed rail line linking Kenitra and Marrakech is on track for completion in 2029, facilitating seamless travel for fans and visitors between major cities. This project aligns with global trends towards sustainable and efficient transportation, mirroring similar high-speed rail developments in Europe and Asia.
Furthermore, the Kenitra-Casablanca Airport route will benefit from the Réseau Express Régional (RER), a regional express train network. Lekjaa highlighted the RER as a catalyst for modern transportation and urban development, potentially transforming the region and improving connectivity for locals and tourists alike. This investment echoes the success of similar RER systems in other major metropolitan areas, like Paris, in alleviating traffic congestion and promoting sustainable commuting.
Taking Flight: Airport Expansions for a Global Hub
Morocco’s ambitions extend to the skies as well. Expansions at the Rabat airport are expected to finish this year, while Marrakech, Fes, Casablanca, and Tangier airports are also undergoing significant upgrades. The vision for Casablanca airport is particularly noteworthy, with plans to transform it into a major international hub. This aligns with Royal Air Maroc’s goal of expanding its fleet to 200 aircraft by 2035, signaling Morocco’s intent to become a key player in global air travel. This expansion could potentially boost tourism, trade, and international connectivity, further solidifying Morocco’s position as a gateway to Africa.
These extensive infrastructure projects underscore Morocco’s dedication to not only hosting a successful 2030 World Cup but also to creating a lasting legacy of improved infrastructure and connectivity for the benefit of its citizens and visitors for years to come. The investments in stadiums, transportation, and aviation paint a picture of a nation embracing progress and aiming for a prominent place on the world stage.