Casablanca – Morocco has launched an ambitious national program to modernize its urban bus transport system, with a total investment of about $1.13 billion for the period 2025–2029. The initiative aims to provide all cities across the Kingdom with modern, efficient, and citizen-focused public transport, equipped with smart technology to enhance service quality and operational management.

The program involves the phased acquisition and deployment of around 3,800 buses across 84 cities and urban clusters, managed by 37 delegated authorities. It is designed to address both the qualitative and quantitative demands of urban mobility, ensuring integrated coverage in major cities as well as surrounding urban areas.

Phased implementation across Moroccan cities

The program is structured in three phases. The first phase is already underway, with Morocco receiving approximately 1,000 buses between late October and early November 2025. These initial buses are part of the 1,487 units planned for this phase, currently being implemented in Tangier, Tetouan, Fez, Rabat, Benslimane, Marrakech, and Agadir, as well as neighboring urban clusters such as Fnideq, Asilah, Tamesna, Benguerir, and Inzegane–Ait Melloul. In total, this phase will cover 29 cities and urban areas.

This first phase also includes the installation of smart ticketing systems, operational support and passenger information systems, and the construction of dedicated maintenance centers. The fleet will operate under a delegated-management model focused on service quality, innovation, and efficiency, marking a significant improvement over previous management frameworks.

The second phase will cover 18 delegated authorities, extending services to 24 cities and urban clusters, including Dakhla, Guelmim, Oujda, Essaouira, Tinghir, Taounate, and Sidi Bennour, ensuring broader coverage across urban territories and their surroundings.

The third phase targets 12 delegated authorities spanning 31 cities, including Casablanca, Meknes, Khouribga, Laayoune, Béni Mellal, Nador, Al Aroui, El Jadida, and Azemmour. It involves the acquisition of 1,482 additional buses to strengthen public transport and ensure comprehensive urban mobility across Morocco.

Technological and operational enhancements

A key feature of the modernization program is the technological upgrade of the bus fleet. All new buses are equipped with smart systems that provide real-time operational data, passenger information, and advanced monitoring capabilities. These systems allow local authorities, delegated operators, and the Ministry of Interior to track fleet performance, optimize service, and provide passengers with accurate schedules and ticketing options through websites, mobile applications, and automated kiosks.

These technological improvements are expected to enhance service efficiency and passenger experience, making urban transport more reliable, safe, and convenient. The integrated approach also supports sustainable mobility by encouraging public transport use and reducing urban traffic congestion.

Strategic and national significance

The national program reflects Morocco’s broader vision for sustainable and inclusive urban development. It aligns with Royal directives issued in December 2024 during the second National Conference on Advanced Regionalization, which emphasized that developing an inclusive and sustainable transport system is a central tool for integrated territorial development and for reducing social and spatial disparities.

The $1.13 billion investment is financed through a partnership between the Ministry of Interior, the Ministry of Economy and Finance, and the Kingdom’s twelve regional authorities. This funding model separates investment responsibilities from operational management, secures financing, and strengthens accountability in service delivery.

Local impact and future outlook

Several cities have already begun receiving new buses. For instance, in October 2025, 257 buses were delivered to Marrakech, Agadir, Tangier, Tetouan, and Benslimane, with additional deliveries scheduled to reach the total of 3,800 buses across the Kingdom. Authorities anticipate that the new fleet will meet growing demand for public transit, improve service reliability, and promote sustainable urban mobility.

By modernizing its bus fleet and introducing smart management tools, Morocco aims to set a new standard for urban transport in the region. The program is expected to transform public transport access for citizens while supporting broader social, environmental, and economic objectives.