This ambitious undertaking aligns with the High Directives of His Majesty King Mohammed VI, who advocates a development vision based on excellence and national self-reliance. Through this project, Morocco confirms its ability to deliver large-scale infrastructure thanks to the dedication and professionalism of its human capital.
According to Rachid Andaloussi, one of the architects in the group responsible for the rehabilitation, the complex represents the accelerated transformation of Morocco’s infrastructure:
“This stadium, once in critical condition, has been entirely rebuilt to meet international requirements,” he told MAP.
Beyond its sporting function, the project highlights the growing strength of the Moroccan workforce, now globally recognized for its competence.
“The level of the Moroccan worker has evolved remarkably, drawing on proven expertise,” he added.
Architect Fikri Benabdallah, also part of the project team, emphasized the deeply Moroccan identity of the entire process:
“From project management to execution, all parties involved were Moroccan,” he said, noting the project drew inspiration from local architectural heritage.
In fact, the design was informed by the restoration of iconic monuments like the Al Quaraouiyine Mosque and the Nejjarine Foundation.
“The architectural style of these buildings inspired our approach, especially in designing the main façade,” he explained.
The complex features a front-facing operations building, designed to optimize the flow of various user categories (general public, players, VIPs), thereby avoiding unwanted interaction in high-pressure environments.
The stadium is equipped with cutting-edge technology:
- 520 surveillance cameras
- Giant screens
- A new sound system
- LED lighting
These elements place the stadium among the most modern sports venues in the region.
“Every space, both inside and out, was designed to reflect the architectural richness of Fès. The result is a perfect blend of tradition and modernity,” added Benabdallah.
Fully conceived using national engineering firms, local companies, and materials sourced in Morocco, the project fully embodies the technical independence of the Kingdom.
“This proves that Moroccan engineering is now capable of competing with the most rigorous international standards,” he asserted.
According to Mohamed Anas Arghouni, regional director of SONARGES and director of the complex, the renovation was completed in a record time of 13 months. More than 7,000 Moroccan workers, mostly from the Fès-Meknès region, contributed to the project, totaling over 7 million hours of work.
With a capacity of 35,000 seats, the stadium includes:
- 12 official seats
- 207 VIP seats
- 800 spots for distinguished guests
- 92 hospitality suites
- 198 press seats
- 4 team locker rooms
- A press conference room
- All necessary amenities for hosting major competitions
Thanks to optimized flow and space management, the venue can host two matches per day, making it a model of efficiency for organizing large-scale sporting events.
This project is part of Morocco’s national strategy to modernize sports infrastructure, particularly in preparation for the 2030 FIFA World Cup, which Morocco will co-host with Spain and Portugal. The complex now joins the ranks of flagship Moroccan stadiums, alongside the Grand Stade of Casablanca and other venues being modernized under this ambitious vision.
Beyond sports, the Fès complex serves as a driver of economic development and regional appeal, hosting sports, cultural, and commercial events.
Ultimately, it reflects Morocco’s ability to mobilize its human capital to deliver transformative projects, and to position itself as a top destination for major continental and international competitions.