Morocco raises rail investment plan to 134 billion dirhams as funding needs grow
Morocco is setting its sights even higher for its railway network. Its investment program has now reached 134 billion dirhams by 2030, up from 96 billion. To support this expansion, Rabat is approaching international banks and seeking new sources of funding.
An additional 38 billion dirhams, an increase of nearly 40%. Morocco has just raised its rail program to 134 billion dirhams, up from 96 billion when it was launched in April 2025. Transport Minister Abdessamad Kayouh announced the new funding package on Wednesday, 14 October, at an international forum in Rabat. The amount includes the initial program and additional investments.
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So far, the 96-billion-dirham program has been divided into three main allocations: 53 billion for infrastructure and equipment for the new Kénitra-Marrakech high-speed line, 29 billion to acquire 168 trains, and 14 billion allocated in particular to modernizing the existing network.
The ambition now goes beyond these initial projects. The expanded program includes a rail connection to the future Nador West Med port, the development of commuter trains in major urban areas and continued modernization of the lines. The extension of the high-speed line to Marrakech remains at the heart of the plan. The ministry has not, however, detailed how the additional 38 billion will be allocated among these various projects.
Morocco seeks new funding abroad
The funding needed remains to be secured. According to international business outlet EnterpriseAM, published Friday, 16 October, Moroccan authorities are turning to development banks for loans suited to the long repayment periods required for rail infrastructure.
The minister is also calling for guarantee mechanisms capable of attracting private investors. Mohamed Rabie Khlie, director general of the National Railway Office (ONCF), said public budgets could no longer bear the cost of investments of this scale on their own. The search for funding comes as ONCF’s consolidated financial debt had already reached 49 billion dirhams at the end of June 2026.
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A major international financing deal has already been concluded. On 17 September, the African Development Bank signed a 205-million-euro loan agreement with Morocco. The money is to be used to strengthen the Kénitra-Marrakech corridor, notably by extending the high-speed line and improving existing infrastructure.
In Rabat, discussions also covered public-private partnerships, financing combining public and private funds, and green bonds. Participants adopted a declaration to this effect at the close of the forum on Thursday, 15 October.
