Morocco’s ambitious high-speed rail plans just took a major step forward as the national railway operator, ONCF, signed an agreement with French manufacturer Alstom on October 28 to supply cutting-edge trainsets for the future Kénitra-Marrakech high-speed rail line. The contract, inked during a ceremony in Rabat with the presence of King Mohammed VI and French President Emmanuel Macron, orders 12 self-propelled trainsets, with an option for six more if expansion requires it.
Alstom clinched the deal amid fierce competition from major international companies, including South Korea’s Hyundai Rotem and Spain’s CAF. ONCF’s General Director, Mohamed Rabie Khlie, praised Alstom’s offer as “the most advantageous, combining a competitive price with top-notch product quality.”
The new high-speed trains are part of Morocco’s expanding vision for high-efficiency, long-distance travel, and Alstom’s advanced trainsets are set to bring a new level of comfort and speed to the Kénitra-Marrakech corridor. But the modernization doesn’t stop here: ONCF has also lined up additional investments, with plans to purchase 40 intercity trainsets, 50 units for metropolitan networks, and 60 express shuttle trains. This comprehensive update will cater to the country’s growing demand for fast, reliable transit options across urban and regional lines.
Additional contracts for the high-speed rail line’s construction have been assigned as well. Project management and infrastructure oversight for the Kénitra-Marrakech high-speed line will be handled by a consortium featuring Morocco’s NOVEC and French firms SYSTRA and EGIS Rail, ensuring that technical support and guidance align with both local expertise and international standards.
This high-speed rail network aims to transform Morocco’s transit landscape, providing faster, more efficient options for travelers and supporting the country’s ambitions to lead North Africa in modern transportation.
