Assahafa.com
Rabat’s new Hay Riad railway station is expected to begin operations today, Monday, according to the National Railway Office (ONCF).
The office announced the public opening of the modern facility, enhancing transport connectivity in the Moroccan capital. The station opening comes less than a week before the Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON 2025) tournament begins.
Located in the heart of Hay Riad district, the new station sits directly across from the Moulay Abdellah sports complex. Construction work began in February 2024 and has progressed rapidly in recent days to ensure operational readiness before the continental football championship.
The facility spans 35,000 square meters and features a distinctive “bridge-station” design concept. The station connects two major city arteries: Avenue Annakhil to the east and Avenue Hassan II along with the Moulay Abdellah complex to the west.
This strategic positioning aims to facilitate pedestrian circulation and optimize infrastructure integration within the urban environment.
The new station forms part of the broader “Rabat, City of Light” urban transformation program designed to modernize city infrastructure and accommodate demographic and urban growth. Built according to international standards, the facility will complement existing Rabat Agdal and Rabat Ville stations to enhance passenger flow and optimize the overall urban railway network.
The building features two distinct blocks, exterior spaces, and an underground passage connecting two basement parking areas. The structure has two facades – one facing Avenue Annakhil and another facing Avenue Hassan II – providing strategic positioning within the capital.
Construction was handled by Société Générale des Travaux du Maroc (SGTM) at a total project cost of MAD 187 million ($18.7 million).
The station’s opening is strategically timed to support transportation needs during AFCON 2025. The ONCF serves as an official sponsor of the tournament through a strategic partnership agreement with the Confederation of African Football (CAF). The railway office will deploy its network to serve supporters throughout the competition.
Travelers can already book tickets departing from or arriving at the new station through the ONCF website. The facility is designed to handle the expected influx of visitors and residents, particularly those attending matches at the Moulay Abdellah stadium and its annex facility.
The new station represents the latest addition to Rabat’s expanding transportation infrastructure, aimed at improving urban mobility and meeting the growing needs of both residents and visitors to the capital.
Source: Morocco word news
