Morocco–UAE: A Strategic Partnership Worth 130 Billion Dirhams to Elevate the Kingdom to the Top of Water and Energy Sovereignty
In an unprecedented move, Morocco and the United Arab Emirates have reached a historic milestone with the signing of three major agreements totaling a staggering 130 billion dirhams.
Backed by TAQA Morocco, Nareva, the Mohammed VI Investment Fund, and in close partnership with the Moroccan government and the National Office of Electricity and Drinking Water (ONEE), this ambitious program embodies a sovereign, sustainable, and forward-looking vision.
An Exceptional Partnership, Born of a Royal Alliance
This large-scale project stems directly from the joint declaration of December 4, 2023, between His Majesty King Mohammed VI and His Highness Sheikh Mohammed Bin Zayed Al Nahyan, marking a new era in strategic relations between Rabat and Abu Dhabi. It outlines an exemplary collaboration in the critical sectors of water, energy, and employment.
Water Security, Energy Independence, and Employment: The Three Pillars of Transformation
The first core component of this visionary partnership focuses on interconnecting the Sebou and Oum Rabia river basins, enabling the transfer of 800 million cubic meters of water annually. This critical infrastructure will ensure a long-term secure supply of drinking water to Morocco’s central regions.
The second major component centers on seawater desalination, using plants powered entirely by renewable energy, aiming for a capacity of 900 million cubic meters per year, at a controlled cost of 4.5 dirhams per cubic meter (excluding tax)—aligned with national standards.
In the energy domain, the program includes the creation of a 1,400 km high-voltage (HVDC) transmission line, effectively an electric highway between the South and Central regions, allowing a flow of 3,000 MW and further integrating the Southern provinces into Morocco’s industrial growth. It also plans for 1,500 MW of thermal power at Tahaddart and 1,200 MW in new renewable capacity.
An Industrial, Technological, and Human Catalyst for National Sovereignty
More than just an infrastructure project, this initiative seeks to build a Moroccan industrial and technological ecosystem focused on desalination, green energy, and power transmission. By 2030, over 25,000 jobs will be created, including 10,000 permanent positions, supported by specialized training programs to meet the needs of these strategic sectors.
A Strategic Alliance Driving Sovereignty, Innovation, and Prosperity
This partnership perfectly illustrates Morocco’s ambition, under the leadership of King Mohammed VI, to establish a resilient, inclusive, and sovereign development model, rooted in high-level South-South partnerships. It also marks the resurgence of Morocco–UAE relations, now focused on high-impact economic, social, and environmental projects.
Once again, Morocco positions itself as a key regional hub for sustainable innovation and energy sovereignty.
