Tangier ramps up infrastructure upgrades for AFCON 2025 and World Cup 2030

Saturday 25 January 2025 - 07:50

By: Dakir Madiha

Tangier ramps up infrastructure upgrades for AFCON 2025 and World Cup 2030

City addresses FIFA’s low ratings with ambitious transport and accommodation plans

Tangier, Morocco, is accelerating its infrastructure development plans in preparation for hosting two major international sporting events: the 2025 African Cup of Nations (AFCON) and the 2030 FIFA World Cup. The city’s efforts come in response to a recent FIFA evaluation report that highlighted significant shortcomings in transportation and accommodation infrastructure, placing Tangier at the bottom of the list among candidate host cities.

Mayor Mounir Laymouri emphasized the city’s commitment to overcoming these challenges, stating that Tangier will “spare no effort” to ensure the success of these events. In an interview with MAP, Laymouri outlined a series of initiatives aimed at addressing the gaps identified in the FIFA report, which awarded Tangier low scores of 2.2 out of 5 for accommodation and 2.6 for transportation.

Investing in public transport and smart traffic systems

A key focus of Tangier’s infrastructure push is the modernization of its public transportation network. The city has launched a MAD 1.124 billion ($112.4 million) project to acquire new high-quality buses, managed by Tanja Mobilité, the local development company. Additionally, studies are underway to introduce Tangier’s first high-quality urban bus transit line (BRT), which is expected to significantly improve mobility across the city.

To tackle traffic congestion, the municipality has implemented an intelligent road signaling system at major avenues and roundabouts. According to Laymouri, this system will complement ongoing projects aimed at enhancing the urban transport network and improving related infrastructure. “The expected results will be felt gradually as these initiatives take effect,” he said.

Expanding accommodation and green spaces

Recognizing the need to boost its accommodation capacity, Tangier is working closely with the Regional Investment Center to streamline investment processes and offer incentives to developers. The goal is to expedite the completion of new hotel projects and other lodging facilities to meet the anticipated influx of visitors during the tournaments.

On the urban development front, Tangier is also prioritizing the expansion of its green spaces. Currently, the city boasts approximately 460 hectares of green areas, with a ratio of 3.15 square meters per inhabitant. In 2023, the municipal council allocated MAD 79 million ($7.9 million) to increase this ratio, aiming to reach the global average of 10 square meters per person.

A new era for utility services

In a significant move to improve infrastructure management, Laymouri announced the establishment of a new regional multiservice company. Set to launch on June 1, the company will oversee water, electricity, and liquid sanitation services across 171 territorial collectivities in the Tangier-Tetouan-Al Hoceima region, replacing current utility providers.

These efforts build on Tangier’s recent progress, including the Tangier-Metropolis program and the rehabilitation of the historic Medina. The city’s Ibn Battouta Stadium, which was renovated to accommodate 65,000 spectators for the 2022 FIFA Club World Cup, stands as a testament to its potential to host major international events.

However, the FIFA evaluation report underscores the considerable work still needed to bring Tangier’s infrastructure up to global standards. Mayor Laymouri has pledged to address these challenges through accelerated development programs and strategic investments, ensuring the city is ready to welcome the world in 2025 and 2030.

As Tangier continues its transformation, the upcoming sporting events present a unique opportunity to showcase the city’s growth and solidify its position as a premier destination for international gatherings.