In a significant move to bolster its infrastructure, Morocco’s Airports Authority (ONDA) has officially launched a massive Moroccan airport expansion project, awarding contracts worth a combined $440 million. This ambitious undertaking will see two of the nation’s key travel airports, Marrakech-Menara and Agadir-Al Massira, undergo transformative upgrades. Consequently, two local construction powerhouses, Jet Contractors and SGTM, have been tasked with leading these extensive renovations. The projects are strategically designed not only to enhance the passenger experience but also to prepare the country for a new era of tourism and international events, positioning Morocco as a premier global destination.
Marrakech-Menara: Doubling Down on a Tourist Hotspot
The iconic city of Marrakech is set to receive a major boost, with Jet Contractors securing the $220 million contract for its Menara airport. Their proposal was ultimately deemed the most advantageous, paving the way for a dramatic overhaul. Specifically, the project will expand the passenger terminal to an impressive 142,000 square meters. This development is aimed at alleviating congestion and streamlining passenger flow. Furthermore, the upgrades extend beyond the terminal walls, including significant exterior improvements to roadways. They also involve the creation of lush green spaces, and the installation of new fountains. As a result of these comprehensive efforts, the airport’s annual capacity is projected to soar from 9 million to a staggering 16 million passengers.
Agadir-Al Massira: Expanding a Key Coastal Gateway
Meanwhile, the coastal city of Agadir will see its Al Massira airport similarly transformed. SGTM successfully won the parallel $220 million contract after its bid was judged to be the most competitive following a thorough technical evaluation. The expansion plan for Agadir is equally ambitious, focusing on increasing the passenger terminal’s total area to 75,000 square meters. This involves a careful blend of renovating 23,800 square meters of the existing structure. Moreover, adding 51,200 square meters of new construction. In addition, SGTM will manage the development of crucial road infrastructure, exterior landscaping, and expanded parking facilities. This will effectively more than double the airport’s capacity, increasing it from 3 million to 7 million passengers annually.
A National Strategy for Global Events
Ultimately, these two major projects are key components of ONDA’s overarching “Airports 2030” strategy. They are a national vision for modernizing Morocco’s aviation infrastructure. This initiative is part of a much larger five-year investment plan worth $3.8 billion that aims to upgrade airports nationwide. These developments are also perfectly timed to support Morocco’s preparations for hosting major international sporting events. Most notably , the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) and the 2030 FIFA World Cup. By enhancing connectivity and elevating the passenger experience to meet the highest international standards, Morocco is clearly signaling its readiness to welcome the world.
The Marrakech-Menara Agadir-Al Massira Airports Project Factsheet
Total Investment: The project involves a total investment of approximately $440 million from Morocco’s Airports Authority (ONDA).
Project Team: Two Moroccan construction firms, Jet Contractors and SGTM, have been awarded the contracts.
Marrakech Expansion: Jet Contractors will handle the Marrakech-Menara airport expansion for $220 million.
Marrakech Capacity Growth: The Marrakech terminal will grow to 142,000 square meters, increasing annual passenger capacity from 9 million to 16 million.
Agadir Expansion: SGTM was awarded the Agadir-Al Massira airport project, also for $220 million.
Agadir Capacity Growth: The Agadir terminal will be expanded to 75,000 square meters, boosting annual capacity from 3 million to 7 million passengers.
National Strategy: These expansions are part of ONDA’s larger “Airports 2030” modernization strategy.
Broader Funding: The projects fall under a massive five-year, $3.8 billion national investment plan for airport upgrades.
Timeline Driver: A primary motivation is to prepare Morocco for hosting major international events.
Key Events: The upgrades are specifically timed to be ready for the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) and the 2030 FIFA World Cup.
