ONCF Speeds Up High-Speed Rail Project to Marrakech

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Morocco’s Railway Expansion Gains Momentum with Record Growth and Modernization Initiatives

Casablanca, Morocco – Morocco’s national railway operator, ONCF, has reported significant gains in its operational performance and has launched a series of modernization efforts. The company’s performance through June 2025 showcases rising profitability and increased activity across both passenger and freight transport.

Robust Financial Performance

ONCF recorded a turnover of 2.44 billion Moroccan dirhams through June 2025, a 13% increase compared to the same period in 2024.This positive trend is attributed to favorable performance across all business sectors, highlighting growing confidence in rail travel.

Passenger Traffic Surges

Passenger numbers reached nearly 27 million passengers, a 3% increase, leading to a turnover of 1.37 billion dirhams,a 9% increase. The high-speed Al Boraq service continues to be a key driver of this growth,having served 2.5 million passengers with a revenue generation of 378 million dirhams-an 11% increase.

did You Know? Morocco’s al Boraq high-speed train is the first of its kind in Africa, substantially reducing travel time between major cities!

Freight Transportation Boom

The freight sector also experienced substantial growth, with ONCF transporting 11 million tonnes of goods, a 20% surge, resulting in a turnover of 950 million dirhams – a 17% increase. This growth correlates directly with the renewed activity in phosphate transport, which rose by 32%.

Investing in the Future of Moroccan Rail

ONCF has allocated 10.5 billion dirhams to capital expenditure (CAPEX) by June 30, 2025. A significant portion of this investment is directed towards accelerating the expansion of the high-speed rail line to Marrakech. This includes securing necessary land permits and initiating civil engineering work on various sections of the route.

Commitment to Integrity & Customer Experience

Demonstrating its dedication to ethical practices, ONCF recently earned ISO 37001 certification for its anti-corruption management system. This certification validates the company’s commitment to integrity in all operations and across all locations.

Furthermore, ONCF has launched a new mobile submission, “ONCF Voyages,” geared towards improving and simplifying the customer experience.

Pro Tip: Download the “ONCF Voyages” app for streamlined ticket booking, real-time schedules, and convenient travel planning.

Financial Overview

Hear’s a rapid look at ONCF’s performance:

Metric	2024	2025 (june)	Change
Total Turnover (Dirhams)	2.16 Billion	2.44 Billion	+13%
Passenger Traffic (Millions)	26.2 Million	27 Million	+3%
Passenger Turnover (dirhams)	1.25 Billion	1.37 Billion	+9%
Freight Volume (Millions of Tonnes)	9.2 Million	11 Million	+20%
Freight Turnover (Dirhams)	810 Million	950 Million	+17%

Net debt for the office amounted to 47 billion dirhams as of June 30, 2025, marking an 11% increase year-over-year.

What initiatives do you think will be most crucial for the continued growth of Morocco’s railway network? And how important is it for national entities like ONCF to prioritize ethical certifications like ISO 37001?

What is the projected launch year for the Al Boraq high-speed service to Marrakech?

Accelerating the Al Boraq Expansion: What Travelers Need to Know

The Office National des Chemins de Fer (ONCF), Morocco’s national railway operator, is significantly accelerating its high-speed rail project extending the Al Boraq line to Marrakech. Originally slated for completion in [Future Date – research needed, insert here], the project is now targeting a faster timeline, promising a substantial boost to tourism and economic growth in the region. This expansion builds upon the success of the existing Al Boraq line connecting Tangier to Casablanca, and represents a major investment in morocco’s infrastructure.

Project Timeline & Key Milestones

While specific dates are subject to change, here’s a breakdown of the anticipated progress:

Current Phase (August 2025): Focus remains on land acquisition and civil engineering works along the route between Casablanca and Marrakech. This includes bridge construction, tunnel excavation, and track laying.

Mid-2026: Expected completion of the majority of the civil engineering work. This phase will also see the commencement of signaling and electrification installation.

Late 2026 – Early 2027: Testing and commissioning of the high-speed rail infrastructure. This crucial stage ensures safety and operational efficiency.

Projected Launch (2027): Official launch of the Al Boraq high-speed service to Marrakech, significantly reducing travel time.

The al Boraq: A Closer Look at Morocco’s High-Speed Train

The Al Boraq, utilizing the Spanish-built AVE technology, currently operates at speeds of up to 320 km/h (199 mph). The extension to Marrakech will maintain these speeds, offering a dramatically faster alternative to road travel.

Trainsets: The Al Boraq fleet consists of twelve high-speed trainsets, each capable of carrying over 500 passengers.

Comfort & Amenities: passengers can expect comfortable seating, Wi-Fi access, power outlets, and catering services onboard.

Ticket Booking: Tickets can be conveniently booked online through the ONCF website (https://oncftickets.com/routes-schedule/) and at train stations.

Impact on Travel Times: Casablanca to Marrakech

Currently, the train journey between Casablanca and Marrakech takes approximately 3 hours and 45 minutes.The Al Boraq high-speed rail is projected to reduce this travel time to around 1 hour and 15 minutes. This represents a critically important time saving for both business and leisure travelers. Consider the benefits for:

Tourism: Easier access to Marrakech will likely increase tourist arrivals, boosting the local economy.

Business Travel: Reduced travel time will facilitate business meetings and collaborations.

Commuting: While less common, the faster connection could open up commuting possibilities for those working in Casablanca and living in Marrakech.

Route Details & Stations

The new high-speed line will connect Casablanca with Marrakech via several key stations:

1. Casablanca Voyageurs: The main railway hub in Casablanca.
2. Settat: A strategically located station serving the Settat region.
3. Benguerir: Serving the growing industrial area of Benguerir.
4. Marrakech: the new high-speed rail station in Marrakech, designed to integrate seamlessly with the city’s transportation network.

Economic Benefits & Regional Development

The ONCF’s investment in the Al Boraq extension is expected to generate substantial economic benefits:

Job Creation: The project has already created numerous jobs during the construction phase, and will continue to generate employment opportunities in operation and maintenance.

Increased Tourism Revenue: Faster and more convenient access to Marrakech will attract more tourists, boosting revenue for hotels, restaurants, and local businesses.

Regional Development: The new stations will serve as catalysts for economic development in the surrounding areas, attracting investment and creating new opportunities.

Reduced Road Congestion: Shifting passengers from road to rail will help alleviate traffic congestion on major highways.

ONCF’s Commitment to Sustainability

The ONCF is committed to sustainable transportation practices. The Al Boraq high-speed rail is a more environmentally pleasant alternative to air and road travel, reducing carbon emissions and contributing to Morocco’s climate goals. The electrification of the line further enhances its sustainability credentials.

Practical Tips for Future Travelers

Book in Advance: Once the service launches, booking tickets in advance is highly recommended, especially during peak season.

Check the ONCF Website: Stay updated on the latest schedules and ticket availability on the official ONCF website (https://oncftickets.com/routes-schedule/).

Plan Your Transfers: Familiarize yourself with transportation options from the Marrakech train station to your final destination.

Consider Luggage Restrictions: Be aware of any luggage restrictions on the Al Boraq service.