Sustainable Mobility in Morocco: Building a Unified Transport System for 2030
Morocco is at a crucial moment of socio-economic and urban transformation as it prepares to co-host the 2030 FIFA World Cup. This international sporting event represents not only an opportunity to shine globally but also a strategic boost to accelerate public policies in various areas. Among them, one of the key pillars is sustainable mobility in Morocco, seen as a vital element to improve citizens’ quality of life, reduce environmental impact, and modernize transport networks at all levels.
A New National Approach: Mobility as a Development Axis
Moroccan authorities have placed sustainable mobility at the center of national planning, aiming to build a unified, efficient, and eco-friendly transport system before the 2030 World Cup. Supported by King Mohammed VI and relevant transport and urban development ministers, the plan seeks to modernize urban and intercity transport, reduce congestion, minimize pollutant emissions, and promote social inclusion.
The government is implementing comprehensive initiatives, including upgrades to railway infrastructure, expansion of public transport, promotion of clean traction systems, and urban planning oriented toward sustainability. These measures respond not only to the demands of the World Cup but also align with long-term strategies such as the National Charter for Sustainable and Inclusive Mobility until 2035 and the 2030 Low-Carbon Strategy, which set ambitious environmental transition goals.
Railway Infrastructure as the Backbone
Expanding and modernizing Morocco’s rail network is essential to the sustainable mobility vision. While the country has an expanding railway system with increased coverage and efficiency, the plans go further. The goal is to connect more cities at high speed, reducing travel times and supporting territorial cohesion while lowering road transport emissions.
Key projects include extending the high-speed train (TGV) line connecting cities such as Tangier, Rabat, and Casablanca southwards to Marrakech. This expansion will enhance interregional mobility, connecting economic and tourist hubs more efficiently and ecologically. Beyond high-speed lines, investments are planned to strengthen suburban and regional train services, reducing pressure on congested roads and providing cleaner transport alternatives.
Significant Investment in Clean Transport
Developing sustainable mobility in Morocco includes substantial financial commitments. Over 78 billion dirhams (approximately $8.5 billion) will be invested to build a modern, multimodal public transport system by 2029. Investments cover new eco-friendly buses, trams, high-efficiency regional trains, and other low-emission transport infrastructure.
The first phase includes delivering thousands of next-generation buses meeting environmental standards and reducing emissions compared to traditional vehicles. Tram networks and Bus Rapid Transit (BRT) systems will expand, integrating urban centers to improve connections between neighborhoods, commercial areas, and service hubs while reducing private vehicle use.
Urban Development and Integrated Public Transport
Sustainable mobility also means rethinking cities through urban planning. More than 60% of Morocco’s population lives in urban areas, a figure projected to grow. Cities like Casablanca, Rabat, and Marrakech are implementing projects integrating urban trains, trams, electric buses, and active mobility systems such as bike lanes and pedestrian zones, reducing congestion and promoting greener urban spaces.
Digital multimodal platforms will allow citizens to plan and execute trips more efficiently, providing integrated travel experiences across different transport modes.
Sustainable Mobility and Quality of Life
An efficient public transport system improves:
- Access to services, jobs, and educational opportunities, especially in peri-urban and rural areas.
- Air and noise quality, fostering healthier urban environments.
- Reduced congestion, saving daily travel time and increasing productivity.
- Social equity by offering accessible and affordable transport options for all population segments.
These objectives align with the National Charter for Sustainable Mobility, balancing economic growth, environmental preservation, and long-term citizen welfare.
Economic and Sustainability Implications
Developing a sustainable transport system generates jobs, attracts investments, encourages eco-tourism, and strengthens national competitiveness. It also reduces costs related to congestion and public health impacts while promoting clean technologies such as electric buses, smart traffic management, and renewable energy integration.
Challenges and Next Steps
Morocco faces challenges in implementing its sustainable mobility vision, including coordination across administrations, long-term project financing, and adoption of modern urban management technologies. Technical workforce training, citizen adoption of eco-friendly transport, and balancing infrastructure investment with public policy are critical to success.
