The Moroccan government is working on a new vision for territorial development to address upcoming economic, demographic, and urban transformations. This new framework aims to strengthen policy coordination and support regional development dynamics. The strategy was presented by Minister of National Territorial Development, Urbanism, Housing, and City Policy Samir Belfkih.
The new strategy has two main objectives: ensuring better convergence between sectoral policies and helping regions align their development plans with national orientations. The approach prioritizes a more flexible strategic planning method, adapting to territorial needs and potential. This involves better structuring the national urban network, reinforcing the role of metropolises, and enhancing the contribution of intermediate and small cities.
Two national strategies have been developed to support this vision. One focuses on intermediate cities, while the other aims to improve the competitiveness of small cities and strengthen their connections with rural areas. According to Belfkih, 77 intermediate cities have been identified, housing 8.47 million people, and 292 small cities, home to nearly four million people.
Urban planning coverage in Morocco reached 89.5% in 2026, with 527 documents approved since October 2021. These include three master plans, 339 development plans, and 185 rural development plans. The direct housing aid program is another significant aspect of the government's policy, with 263,840 requests registered and 127,707 beneficiaries.
The housing aid program has seen significant financial engagement, with the state contributing 10.5 billion dirhams and the total value of acquired housing reaching 52.5 billion dirhams. Beneficiaries include a high number of young households and women, who represent 48% of beneficiaries, and 53% of those under 40 years old.
Minister delegate for Housing and City Policy Fatima Saadi presented the 2026-2031 action plan, focusing on five priorities: improving territorial and urban planning, access to decent and affordable housing, accelerating slum eradication, promoting territorial equity, and ensuring construction quality and durability.
The government's strategy aims to achieve complementary objectives, including regional economic competitiveness, housing access, and reducing territorial imbalances. The plan involves developing regional orientation frameworks and supporting regional councils in updating their territorial development plans.
Key points
- The new strategy aims to strengthen policy coordination and support regional development dynamics.
- Morocco's urban planning coverage has reached 89.5% in 2026.
- The state has contributed 10.5 billion dirhams to the direct housing aid program.
