How FIFA 2030 Will Boost Morocco’s Economy and Why You Should Invest Now

Morocco prepares for a decade of historic growth, with over EUR 100 billion in infrastructure, energy, transport, and sports investments projected by 2030.

This surge is largely driven by two landmark events: the 2030 FIFA World Cup, which Morocco will co-host with Spain and Portugal, and the 2025 African Cup of Nations. Together, these events are fast-tracking projects in green hydrogen, transportation networks, water management, stadium development, and urban infrastructure.

For foreign investors and multinational corporations, Morocco represents one of the most promising emerging markets in North Africa. But alongside the opportunities come legal and regulatory complexities, particularly in energy, land rights, infrastructure financing, and new financial instruments.

This article explores the investment opportunities, legal frameworks, and risks shaping Morocco’s transformation into a regional economic hub by 2030.

Why Morocco’s 2030 World Cup Drives a Development Surge

Morocco’s role as a co-host for the 2030 FIFA World Cup is more than a sporting achievement—it’s a national development catalyst. The Kingdom aims to transform its infrastructure and economic landscape, using football as the spark for long-term urban and industrial renewal.

EUR 100 Billion in Infrastructure by 2030

According to government projections, Morocco will mobilize over EUR 100 billion in investment between 2024 and 2030, largely across:

• Transport networks:
  • Expansion of the motorway network, especially linking Nador, Fez, and Kenitra.
  • Upgrades to rail infrastructure, including a high-speed line from Kenitra to Marrakech.
  • Renovation and expansion of international airports in Casablanca, Rabat, Tangier, and Marrakech.
• Urban infrastructure:
  • Investments in soft mobility systems, digital connectivity, and cultural centers in host cities.
  • Hotel and hospitality projects to accommodate international visitors.
• Sports venues:
  • Renovation and construction of World Cup-standard stadiums.
  • Expansion of training facilities and sports complexes.

Sports as a Catalyst for Economic Growth

The 2030 World Cup and 2025 African Cup of Nations are expected to inject billions in direct spending into Morocco, while stimulating tourism, real estate, and construction sectors. Historically, global sporting events have driven 4–8% GDP growth in host nations (source).

But Morocco is taking a long-term view. Beyond football, these projects will support:

• Trade facilitation (via improved transport corridors).
• Regional integration with Spain and Portugal.
• Job creation, with estimates of hundreds of thousands of new jobs by 2030.

Public-Private Partnerships to Fund Projects

Morocco is leaning heavily on public-private partnerships (PPPs) to finance these mega-projects, reducing strain on public finances.
Through PPP contracts and securitisation structures (FPCTs), private investors can participate in transport, energy, and urban infrastructure, while benefitting from tax and land incentives under the 2022 Investment Charter.

Green Hydrogen: Morocco’s Renewable Energy Revolution

Morocco is emerging as a global leader in renewable energy, particularly green hydrogen, driven by its solar and wind potential and strategic proximity to Europe.

The Moroccan Offer for Green Hydrogen (2024 Circular)

On 11 March 2024, the Moroccan government issued Circular No. 03/2024, presenting the “Moroccan Offer” to investors.
It grants:

• Access to 300,000 hectares (initial tranche) of high-potential land, divided into 10,000–30,000-hectare lots.
• Support for shared infrastructure, including:
  • Desalination plants,
  • Energy transmission lines,
  • Pipelines,
  • Port facilities for export.

Investors can also leverage tax incentives under the 2022 Investment Charter, including VAT exemptions, customs relief, and bonuses of up to 30% for qualifying projects.

Land, Infrastructure, and Tax Incentives

Morocco’s green hydrogen ecosystem offers investors:

• Long-term land leases, ensuring security for projects with 20–30-year horizons.
• Shared, state-supported infrastructure, reducing capex risks.
• Access to export markets, especially the EU, which is targeting 10 million tonnes of imported green hydrogen by 2030 (European Commission report).

The New Investment Charter: Securing Investor Confidence

Adopted in 2022, the Investment Charter is Morocco’s centerpiece for attracting global capital. It aims to create 500,000 jobs and generate significant FDI by 2030.

Territorial and Sectoral Bonuses Up to 30%

Investors can benefit from bonuses covering up to 30% of project costs, based on:

• Location (regional development zones).
• Sector (renewables, industrial production, technology).
• Social impact, including job creation, gender equality, and local workforce training.

Strategic Projects Over MAD 2 Billion

Projects exceeding MAD 2 billion (~EUR 180 million) in strategic areas (water, energy, food security, technology) enjoy fast-tracked approvals and special incentives.

Contractual Guarantees for Legal Certainty

A key innovation is the investment agreement mechanism, allowing companies to lock in benefits and legal protections for the life of the project.
The state has also set up a one-stop shop and steering committee to reduce bureaucratic delays.

Innovative Financing for Mega Projects

To sustain high levels of investment without excessive state debt, Morocco is embracing innovative capital markets tools.

Securitisation and FPCT Funds

Morocco’s Act 33-06 now allows securitisation of future infrastructure revenues (like tolls, concessions, or power purchase agreements) via Fonds de Placement Collectif en Titrisation (FPCTs).

This enables public and private sponsors to raise long-term capital by selling market-backed securities.
An example is the ONEE gas power station financing at Al Wahda, where securitisation mobilised private investment for energy expansion.

Investment Opportunities by Sector

The following sectors offer the highest ROI potential for investors:

Renewable Energy and Industrial Decarbonisation

• Green hydrogen and derivatives (ammonia, methanol).
• Solar and wind farms tied to export-oriented projects.
• Industrial decarbonisation for export to the EU under the Carbon Border Adjustment Mechanism (CBAM).

Transport and Rail Modernisation

• Expansion of motorway corridors linking Nador, Fez, Kenitra, and Marrakech.
• High-speed rail projects and station upgrades.
• Logistics hubs for trade with Europe and West Africa.

Water Infrastructure

• Desalination plants for agriculture and cities.
• “Water highways” to transport water from surplus to deficit areas.
• PPP models to reduce public funding pressure.

Sports and Urban Development

• Construction and renovation of World Cup stadiums and hotels.
• Mixed-use urban projects (cultural centers, mobility hubs).
• Long-term gains from tourism growth.

AQs About Investing in Morocco’s Future Economy

What sectors offer the highest returns by 2030?

Renewable energy (especially green hydrogen), transport networks, and urban development projects tied to the World Cup are expected to deliver the highest ROI.

How can foreign investors navigate Morocco’s legal framework?

By leveraging investment agreements under the 2022 Charter, engaging local counsel, and structuring projects via PPP or securitisation frameworks.

What tax and financial incentives are available?

Up to 30% of investment costs can be offset through bonuses, plus VAT exemptions, customs benefits, and long-term land leases.

Is Morocco safe for green hydrogen investments?

Yes, but investors must account for regulatory gaps by securing contractual protections and aligning with ESG standards.

How will the 2030 World Cup reshape Morocco’s economy?

The tournament is expected to accelerate urban renewal, create jobs, attract FDI, and cement Morocco as a regional trade and energy hub.