Construction work has officially begun on the new passenger terminal at Mohammed V International Airport, marking a major milestone in Morocco’s strategy to transform Casablanca into a world-class air hub by 2030.
In a statement shared with the press, the Moroccan Airports Authority (ONDA) confirmed the start of excavation works, signaling the transition from design to physical implementation of what it calls one of the country’s most ambitious infrastructure projects.
With a total investment of 15 billion dirhams ($1.5 billion), the new terminal is designed to handle 20 million additional passengers per year, increasing the airport’s overall capacity to 35 million passengers annually. The project is a key pillar of the national “Airports 2030” strategy, which emphasizes innovation, sustainability, and global connectivity.
Following a public tender, STAM, a leading Moroccan construction firm, was awarded the site preparation contract, expected to last eight months. The terminal itself is scheduled to become operational by 2029.
The project is being designed by an international consortium — Ala Concept, RSHP Architects, and Egis Bâtiments International — known for its work on acclaimed terminals in London, Madrid, and Geneva. ONDA stated that the new terminal will represent “a new generation of smart, climate-resilient, and energy-efficient infrastructure.”
Plans include a seamless, digital travel experience for passengers, alongside a high-speed rail station integrated into the terminal, allowing travel between Casablanca and Rabat in 30 minutes and to Marrakech in under an hour.
Casablanca is expected to reinforce its role as a continental and global aviation hub, connecting Europe, Africa, and the Americas, especially with the anticipated expansion of national carrier Royal Air Maroc.
To ensure top-tier execution, ONDA launched a Call for Expressions of Interest (AMI) earlier this year, receiving 27 bids from Moroccan and international consortiums with expertise in complex airport infrastructure. The official tendering process for the main construction contract will begin in July, with final awarding planned by year-end.
The project is closely tied to Morocco’s preparations for co-hosting the 2030 FIFA World Cup, with the terminal seen as a gateway that will boost international visibility and enhance tourism and economic flows.
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