• Construction phase runs Sept 2025–end 2027, starting in Casablanca region
• Project includes 600 km of electrified tracks, new stations, and 9 maintenance hubs
• Line designed for 320 km/h, to cut Tangier–Marrakech trip to 2h40 by 2030

Morocco’s national railway operator ONCF has announced the launch this month of the heavy construction phase of the Kenitra–Marrakech high-speed rail (HSR) project. Work will begin in the Casablanca region with the addition of six tracks—two for HSR, two for commuter trains, and two for other rail services.

The plan covers the installation of next-generation signaling systems, the construction of new high-speed and commuter stations, 600 km of electrified tracks, and nine maintenance and technical centers. The works will be carried out in phases from September 2025 through the end of 2027.

Officially launched in April 2025 by King Mohammed VI, the project will link Rabat to Marrakech via Casablanca, while serving airports in these cities and the planned Benslimane mega-stadium. These facilities form part of the broader transport network being prepared for the 2030 FIFA World Cup, which Morocco will co-host with Spain and Portugal.

The Kenitra–Marrakech line also fits into Morocco’s long-term railway expansion strategy to 2040, which aims to extend rail coverage to 87% of the population and 43 cities, up from 23 today.

Designed for operating speeds of 320 km/h, the line will sharply reduce travel times. The Tangier–Rabat trip will take one hour, while Tangier–Casablanca and Tangier–Marrakech will be cut to 1h40 and 2h40 respectively. An interconnection with Fès is also planned, enabling a trip to Marrakech in 3h40 using a mix of conventional and high-speed rail.