Analysis

Kenitra-Marrakech HSR: what Morocco’s rail programme changes for travel

The rail extension reshapes links between Morocco’s tourism and economic cities.

R
Rédaction Le Vrai Maroc
5 min readUpdated on July 21, 2026
Marrakech railway station illustrating rail expansion toward 2030.

Quick answer: the Kenitra-Marrakech axis sits at the centre of ONCF’s rail programme. On 24 April 2026, ONCF referred to a 96 billion dirham programme, including 53 billion for the new high-speed line. On 9 July 2026, AfDB announced €205 million for PADIF.

Marrakech airport, complementing rail-air connectivity.

What to retain

ONCF describes a 430 km axis. As of 24 April 2026, land acquisition was completed, most rights of way were cleared and station works were expected by July 2026.

Development area around Marrakech.

Why it matters

For travellers, the issue is smoother links between Casablanca, Rabat, Kenitra and Marrakech. For tourism, multi-city stays become more realistic.

Tanger Med, reminder of logistics corridors.

Watch points

Service dates, fares, frequencies and urban connections will matter more than investment totals. No cited source confirms commercial operation in July 2026.

Is Kenitra-Marrakech HSR already operating?

No. The sources describe 2026 programme progress, not commercial service.

Keywords

Kenitra Marrakech HSRONCF 2026Morocco rail 2030Morocco mobility

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