This update focuses on ONCF rail works. Morocco’s ONCF rail network is facing a series of temporary adjustments this September as major rail works progress on the future Kénitra–Marrakech high-speed line and on conventional routes.
ONCF rail works: why services are changing now
The national rail operator says these changes are needed to push ahead with construction while keeping safety standards high and maintaining basic service.
For Moroccans living abroad, these disruptions can affect late-summer trips home, business or family visits, and connections between the airport and major cities.
ONCF has announced a first phase of exceptional measures overnight from Saturday 5 to Sunday 6 September, from 11 p.m. to 11 p.m. the next day, before a new transport plan comes into effect from 14 September 2026.
Casablanca, El Jadida, Settat: main lines affected
Around Casablanca, several routes will temporarily operate under new conditions during the first phase of the ONCF rail works:
- Shuttle trains between Casablanca and El Jadida will terminate at Bouskoura station.
- Passengers will have to continue their journey on Atlas intercity trains.
- On the Casablanca–Settat axis, shuttle trains will be suspended, with travellers redirected to Atlas trains.
- The direct train linking Safi to Casablanca will be temporarily cancelled.
These changes directly affect corridors often used by Moroccans abroad when they travel from Casablanca to their hometowns, or commute between Casablanca and nearby cities.
It becomes crucial to check updated timetables before travelling, allow more time for connections, and, where possible, book an Atlas train instead of the usual shuttle.
Access to Mohammed V airport: replacement buses instead of trains
The rail link to Mohammed V International Airport will be suspended during the announced works period.
To keep passengers moving, Supratours buses will replace trains between the airport and the ONCF network.
For Moroccans around the world arriving in or departing from Casablanca, this suspension is a key point to anticipate:
- expect a longer journey time between the airport and the city;
- check the exact departure and arrival points of Supratours buses;
- allow extra time if you have flights very early in the morning or late at night.
It is advisable to check the latest information on ONCF’s official channels before every trip.
Khouribga, Berrechid and the new phase from 14 September
On the Khouribga line, trains will run only as far as Berrechid station. Passengers will then continue their journey using Atlas trains.
ONCF stresses that these timetable and service changes are temporary and will evolve as construction advances.
From 14 September 2026, a new phase will start with the rollout of a revised transport plan directly linked to progress on the Kénitra–Marrakech high-speed project.
For Moroccans abroad planning longer stays, investments, or frequent travel between several Moroccan cities, these ONCF rail works point to a medium-term goal: a faster, more extensive rail network.
In the meantime, it is wise to:
- systematically check train schedules before travelling;
- coordinate flight and train bookings with more flexibility;
- follow updates on ONCF’s website and use reliable guides for practical procedures when in Morocco.
The current adjustments may complicate travel in the short term, but they are part of a broader modernisation that should ultimately make mobility between Moroccan cities easier.
For more context, readers can follow Canal212 news for Moroccans abroad.
For official updates, readers can check the relevant official source.
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