Morocco and the African Development Bank (AfDB) signed a €270 million financing agreement in Casablanca on Tuesday to expand and modernize airport infrastructure as the country prepares to co-host the 2030 FIFA World Cup.
The loan to Morocco’s National Airports Office (ONDA) will support upgrades at Marrakech, Agadir, Tangier and Fez. By 2030, the program aims to increase annual passenger capacity to 14 million in Marrakech, five million in Agadir, 3.6 million in Tangier and three million in Fez.
AfDB President Sidi Ould Tah and Moroccan Economy and Finance Minister Nadia Fettah presided over the ceremony. The agreement was signed by the bank’s Morocco country manager, Achraf Tarsim, and ONDA Director General Adel El Fakir.
The investments will upgrade airport infrastructure, air navigation systems and safety and security equipment. Automated baggage handling and digital services are intended to improve passenger processing and make journeys faster and more comfortable, according to the bank.
The financing follows the AfDB board’s approval of the program in December 2025. Planned works include terminal expansions, a new control tower at Marrakech airport and improvements to aircraft parking areas and taxiways.
The expansion comes as passenger traffic continues to grow. Morocco’s airports handled approximately 22.3 million passengers during the first seven months of 2026, up 8.77% from the same period a year earlier, according to figures from the national airport operator.
The AfDB expects the program to create several thousand jobs, particularly for young people and women, while supporting tourism, trade and logistics. It also aims to strengthen Morocco’s position as an aviation hub connecting Africa, Europe and other international markets.
