Continental Highway: Morocco Prepares for the 2030 World Cup

Nizar Baraka, Minister of Equipment and Water, announced the launch of the continental highway project that will connect Casablanca to Tamesna and Benslimane, as part of preparations for hosting the 2030 FIFA World Cup.

During the oral questions session at the House of Representatives, the minister explained that the project is expected to be completed by 2029, one year before the World Cup. He also noted that the process for selecting the implementing companies will begin in May 2025, which reflects the government’s serious commitment to this strategic project.

This project carries both strategic and developmental importance, as it will not only improve road connectivity between major urban centers but also showcase Morocco’s modern infrastructure to the world, with the country aiming to host an exceptional World Cup in partnership with Spain and Portugal.

Despite the cancellation of the initial tender, which had generated significant interest from both Moroccan and foreign companies, the project continues to attract attention from major players in the construction and public works sectors. Chinese companies, with experience in large-scale projects in Morocco, particularly in the rail sector, have expressed strong interest, alongside prominent Moroccan firms like « Fias », « Stam », and « Al-Halawi », as well as Spanish, Turkish, and Egyptian companies, highlighting the international nature of the competition.

The project will be executed in phases, with the works divided into six sections covering different areas between Casablanca and Tamesna. This phased approach will allow for the involvement of multiple companies and stimulate the economy in various regions of the country.

Additionally, the current management of the National Motorway Company of Morocco (ADM) is considering alternative options to improve the existing road network, particularly by widening lanes on the heavily trafficked Rabat-Casablanca axis, with technical solutions such as adding 2×5 or even 8×2 lanes, and improving intersections.