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Casablanca officially opens Aïn Sebaâ Zoo to coincide with AFCON 2025

Yesterday 13:40

By: Sahili Aya

Casablanca officially opens Aïn Sebaâ Zoo to coincide with AFCON 2025

Casablanca’s long-awaited Aïn Sebaâ Zoo is finally set to open to the public this December, after years of delays and extensive rehabilitation work. The inauguration is expected to take place in parallel with the Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) 2025, marking a symbolic moment for the city as it welcomes thousands of visitors.

During an extraordinary session of the Casablanca City Council on December 2, council member Karim Glaibi confirmed that the construction phase had been completed “for quite some time,” and that teams were now handling the final preparations ahead of the official opening. He stressed that the project required significant effort and rigorous oversight, especially after early setbacks that led to major revisions.

According to Glaibi, several issues stemmed from the first company and engineering firm initially tasked with the project. Their work, he explained, did not meet the standards required for a specialized zoological facility, resulting in delays and the need for major corrections. “Had the zoo opened earlier, these structural problems might have resurfaced and posed safety risks for visitors,” he noted.

After delegating operations to a specialized management company, multiple deficiencies were identified and are now being addressed prior to launch.

Regarding entrance fees—set at 80 dirhams for adults and 50 dirhams for children—Glaibi indicated that these prices remain unchanged. While some council members questioned the rates, he said the operating costs of the zoo made them necessary. However, he assured that if revenue in the first year exceeds expenses, a price revision will be considered. Family and group packages will also be available at reduced rates of 60 dirhams per adult and 40 per child.

The zoo will be operated by Dream Village under a 20-year delegated management agreement, a move intended to ensure professional oversight and long-term stability.