Ambitious Highway Project Set to Transform Northern Morocco
The Moroccan authorities are finalizing preparations for a groundbreaking project aimed at constructing a new 60-kilometer highway that will connect the cities of Tangier and Tetouan. This highway initiative is currently advancing into the preparatory phase, with an estimated cost nearing six billion dirhams, as outlined in the 2026 Budget Law. This strategic endeavor is designed to enhance mobility between two of the most significant urban and economic hubs in northern Morocco.
The project, which spans approximately 60 kilometers, is presently undergoing updates to technical studies. Before construction can commence, environmental assessments must be finalized, the financial structure defined, and the execution plan concretized. This initiative addresses the growing tourism and commercial activities in the region and alleviates the congestion on the National Road N2, which is currently the primary route connecting both cities.
Enhancing Connectivity and Economic Growth
The new highway is expected to serve as a parallel route to the existing connection between Tangier and Tetouan, predominantly utilized via National Road N2, one of the busiest routes in the northern part of the country, especially during peak times and summer vacations. This project is considered a crucial infrastructure development that will significantly improve connectivity within the Tangier-Tetouan-Alhucemas region, where Tangier serves as an industrial and logistical hub while Tetouan and its coastal surroundings are characterized by robust residential and tourism activities.
If confirmed, the new highway will reduce travel time between the two cities, ease the pressure on National Road N2, and enhance safety conditions on a route that experiences intense vehicle and truck traffic. Additionally, this project is poised to provide essential support for the logistical dynamics associated with the Tangier Med port, one of the largest in the Mediterranean, thereby strengthening northern Morocco's position in maritime transport and logistics.
The highway will offer a fast and secure alternative for transporters and visitors heading to the tourist areas of Tamuda and Tetouan, both of which are experiencing rapid expansion. This initiative is part of Morocco's national strategy to expand its highway network, which already exceeds 1,800 kilometers, with a particular focus on the Tangier-Tetouan-Alhucemas region, identified as a priority for improving road and port connectivity.
According to various Moroccan media reports, the future highway will be developed through a partnership between the state and the National Society of Highways of Morocco. Technical and environmental studies are expected to take place next year, with construction projected to begin in 2027, contingent upon securing final financing. This new connection will significantly reduce travel times between Tangier and Tetouan, which can exceed one and a half hours during peak periods. Furthermore, it will enhance accessibility to industrial and tourist areas along the planned route, bolstering mobility in a key corridor for northern Morocco.
While there is currently no definitive financial announcement, sources familiar with the project estimate its cost at approximately six billion dirhams, considering the complexity of the terrain and the number of proposed overpass structures. However, the commencement of construction remains contingent upon the official announcement of funding and final programming. Until then, the Tangier-Tetouan highway remains in the preparatory phase rather than an ongoing construction project.
As reported by elfarodeceuta.es.
