Morocco allocates multi-billion dirham budget for 2030 World Cup infrastructure plan

Spanish news outlets are reporting on Morocco’s ambitious infrastructure plan in preparation for the 2030 FIFA World Cup, which will be co-hosted with Spain and Portugal.

The plan, valued at 42 billion MAD (approximately €3.95 billion), aims to modernize the country’s transportation network and stadium facilities, as well as boost the economy.

A substantial portion of the budget will be directed towards the construction and renovation of stadiums slated to host one or more tournament matches during the 2030 FIFA World Cup, explained the same source.

This focus on stadium development aligns with Morocco’s recently unveiled plans for the upcoming Africa Cup of Nations.

As reported earlier, the government has allocated 17 billion MAD (€1.6 billion) to upgrade five existing facilities to meet the international standards set by the Confederation of African Football (CAF) and FIFA.

The centerpiece of this project is the new mega-stadium in Casablanca. Budgeted at 5 billion MAD (€459 million), this stadium aims to be the world’s largest, with a capacity of 115,000 spectators.

The project is touted for its “sustainable design” by Sonarges, the construction company. Ikram Sehhar, a Sonarges executive, emphasized at Construmat 2024 that the design will ensure distinct spaces for different groups, namely VIPs, spectators, stadium workers, and players, to prevent crowding

This ambitious project reflects Morocco’s desire to host the 2030 World Cup final, a competition Spain also aims to secure.

The remaining investment will be distributed among the five other venues selected by Morocco for the World Cup.

These stadiums will undergo renovations and upgrades in two phases. Facilities in Marrakech, Agadir, and Fez will receive a remodeling process in two stages, while stadiums in Tangier and Rabat will benefit from direct renovations to prepare them for the global tournament.