Latest news with #MarrakechMenaraAirport
Newsweek
2 days ago
- Business
- Newsweek
$10 Billion Airport Update Planned for 2030 World Cup
Based on facts, either observed and verified firsthand by the reporter, or reported and verified from knowledgeable sources. Newsweek AI is in beta. Translations may contain inaccuracies—please refer to the original content. Morocco has launched a major overhaul of its airport system as part of a new multibillion-euro deal between its national airport authority and the government ahead of the 2030 World Cup. Newsweek has contacted the Moroccan Airports Authority via email for more information on the overhaul. Why It Matters Morocco's announcement of a sweeping airport infrastructure overhaul is a cornerstone of the country's preparation to co-host the 2030 FIFA World Cup with Spain and Portugal. With a planned investment of 38 billion dirhams (about $10 billion), officials are targeting a dramatic increase in the nation's airport capacity. The country seeks to redefine its tourism industry, handle a record influx of visitors and showcase North Africa on a global stage. What To Know On July 24, Moroccan authorities unveiled a five-year investment program co-funded by the government and the Moroccan Airports Authority, allocating $10 billion to their airport expansion plan. The goal is to raise national airport capacity from 38 million passengers per year to 80 million by 2030. Marrakech Menara Airport in Morocco on November 10, 2009. Marrakech Menara Airport in Morocco on November 10, 2009. Getty Images The Mohammed V International Airport in Casablanca is expected to see a major new terminal constructed to boost its capacity by an additional 20 million passengers, with an overall airport target of 23.3 million annual travelers. This overhaul comes alongside a 22 billion-euro (about $23.7 billion) national rail expansion approved by King Mohammed VI, featuring new high-speed lines connecting major cities and the construction of the Grand Stade Hassan II in Casablanca, which is set to hold 115,000 spectators. Tourism is central to the Moroccan economy. Last year, the country set a record by welcoming 17.4 million foreign visitors, a 20 percent year-on-year rise. Officials project the country will reach 26 million visitors annually by 2030. What People Are Saying Following the announcement of the Kenitra-Marrakech high-speed rail line, the Moroccan Embassy in Finland wrote on X in April: "His Majesty King Mohammed VI, may God assist Him, launched, on Thursday at the Rabat-Agdal train station, the 430-kilometer Kenitra-Marrakech High-Speed Rail Line. "The Kenitra-Marrakech High Speed Rail Line project reflects the Sovereign's enlightened Vision of improving the national rail service, and is in line with the Kingdom's strategic orientations, under the impetus of His Majesty the King, in terms of sustainable development, particularly promoting low-carbon footprint collective mobility solutions." What Happens Next Morocco's government, airports authority and private contractors have begun moving forward with tenders for new terminals and expansions, with construction activities anticipated to intensify through 2026. Officials hope that the airport and related infrastructure projects will drive job creation in sectors ranging from construction to hospitality and transport, helping to upskill the Moroccan workforce in anticipation of sustained tourism growth.
The Independent
28-05-2025
- Entertainment
- The Independent
The Oberoi Marrakech hotel review
Location Just a 25-minute drive from Marrakech Medina, the historic old city, the Oberoi is close to the foothills of the Atlas Mountains and set in 28 acres of gardens including fragrant olive groves and citrus orchards. It is half an hour from Marrakech Menara Airport, which is a three-hour and 40-minute flight from London. The vibe The hotel's design takes inspiration from Moroccan and Andalusian palaces and a palatial feel prevails throughout, from the open courtyard at the centre of the hotel to its 'grand canal', set against the stunning backdrop of the snow-capped Atlas peaks. Villas come with their own private pool, meaning you can relax without being troubled by other guests. Great care has been taken to cultivate a serene environment with flourishing native gardens creating a home for local birds, and on a clear night, the stargazing is unmatched. Service Service is impeccable at every turn, from check-in to the restaurants and spa. Guests are always greeted warmly, and can expect friendly, helpful staff to be on hand throughout the day, without feeling like they are being hassled. Each room has a 24-hour concierge line, who can help book trips and experiences, from a tour of the city to breakfast in a hot-air balloon and even a flight into the desert, if given the right amount of notice. Bed and bath Some 72 of the 84 rooms and suites are deluxe villas, which have a bedroom with a king-size bed and a large bathroom, both with large windows looking out onto the private pool and garden, with sun loungers. There is a standalone bath as well as a large shower that has a door out to the garden, meaning you can head straight in from the pool. The main suite is open plan and spacious with tasteful decorations in rich jewel tones. It includes a lounge area, as well as a dining table with a door leading out to the pool and garden. There is a separate walk-in closet that has ample room, as well as a desk if needed. Upon arrival, a thoughtfully arranged tray of complimentary cakes, snacks and local wine is laid out. Food and drink The Oberoi has two main restaurants. Rivayat, with a menu curated by Michelin-starred chef Rohit Ghai, offers Indian cuisine that the hotel says is an 'ode to the country's many culinary traditions and delights'. A highlight is the five-course 'Expedition' tasting menu, though there is also an à la carte option. Tamimt, next door in the main building, has food from around the world, including more traditional Moroccan tagines. The desserts were a particular standout, including a tiramisu constructed at the table. Diners can also eat on the terrace with views of the Atlas Mountains. Chefs use olive oil from the grounds' 3,000 olive trees, pressed specially to be used in the hotel's restaurants. There is another restaurant, Azur, by the main swimming pool, for light meals during the day, and also a hotel bar. Facilities As well as a large main pool, there is a spa built over a small lake within the grounds. It has an indoor, temperature-controlled pool, as well as a gym and five spa treatment rooms, plus two traditional Moroccan hammams. There is a range of complimentary fitness and wellness classes available, which can be booked through the concierge, including sunrise yoga, a morning run with the hotel's fitness trainer and high-intensity cross training. There is also a tennis court and bikes are available to use around the grounds. Disability access The hotel caters for disabled guests with facilities including wheelchair-accessible routes, grab rails, raised toilets, and lowered sinks. Pet policy Pets are not allowed. Check in/check out? Check-in is at 3pm, and check-out at 12pm. Family friendly? Children are welcome and the Oberoi has a kids' club with a programme including cooking classes, art workshops and treasure hunts. They can also be shown the secrets of falconry by the indigenous Kwassem tribe, or visit the hotel's donkeys, Brownie and Sugar, who are very friendly and happy to have visitors pop by to say hello. At a glance Best thing: Tranquillity – great service and privacy mean your peace is never interrupted. Perfect for: Mixing rest with an invigorating city break. Not right for: Anyone not looking to leave behind the hustle and bustle of central Marrakech. Instagram from: The hotel terrace at sunset, capturing the hotel's 'grand canal' and Atlas Mountains in the distance.
Morocco World
12-02-2025
- Morocco World
Morocco Detains Kuwaiti National Under International Arrest Warrant
Rabat – Moroccan authorities detained a Kuwaiti national at Mohammed V International Airport in Casablanca under an international arrest warrant issued by Kuwaiti judicial authorities. The national had arrived in Morocco by plane when his name was flagged by airport security scanners in the Interpol database. He was being sought by Kuwaiti authorities for his suspected role in economic and financial crimes. The suspect was arrested the moment the warrant was verified by officers. He is now in custody as Moroccan authorities process the extradition request. Kuwaiti judicial authorities have been notified and will be issuing the necessary legal papers. The case underlines Morocco's deep-rooted involvement in international law enforcement efforts. Moroccan authorities continue to work closely with global law enforcement bodies, particularly in cases involving cross-border offenses. In a similar operation, Moroccan police also arrested a 40-year-old French national of Tunisian origin at Marrakech Menara Airport early Tuesday morning. The suspect was arrested following an Interpol Red Notice from the French judicial authorities for his suspected role in international drug trafficking and psychotropic substance offenses. Beyond its significance as an isolated case, this arrest also notes Morocco's broader commitment to upholding international security agreements. Authorities remain vigilant in tracking and detaining individuals sought by judicial systems worldwide, reinforcing Morocco's reputation as a reliable partner in global crime-fighting initiatives. Tags: crimeinternational arrest warrantMorocco police
