Dajla consolidates its position as an economic hub in West Africa with strategic infrastructure

The city of Dakhla is not only establishing itself as a key economic and commercial centre for Africa and Morocco, but is also defining itself as a testing ground for sustainable development through a combination of innovation, clean energy, the blue economy, tourism and urban planning. 

One of the city's advantages is that, if the process is well managed, Dakhla could become a model city for the new urban centres emerging across the African continent. The implementation of these projects seeks long-term sustainable growth, reflecting the country's strategic vision for modernisation. 

One of the most ambitious projects is the construction of the Atlantic Port of Dakhla, designed as a strategic infrastructure that will not only connect Morocco with the rest of the African continent, but also with Europe and Latin America. This port is expected to serve as another competitor for the ports of Tangier Med and Nador West Med in terms of goods movement and economic contribution to the country's gross domestic product. 

Another important area of development is the promotion of aquaculture, i.e. the breeding and cultivation of aquatic organisms, both plant and animal, in controlled aquatic environments. Dakhla has positioned itself as an ideal location for fish and shellfish farming, thanks to the excellent climate and water conditions in its bays. 

The development of numerous fish farms has generated large amounts of employment and investment, in what is known as an expansion of the ‘blue economy’. However, abuse of these practices can have negative impacts on the environment, so proper management must be the basis for the sector's growth. 

Innovative solutions are also being implemented for the sustainable supply of basic resources, through wind energy and seawater desalination projects designed to address two fundamental challenges for the country: water scarcity and the need for clean energy. 

At the same time, investment is also being made in green hydrogen, a type of fuel in which Morocco is one of the world's leading production and research centres. To this end, through the project known as ‘White Dunes’, Morocco seeks to position Dakhla as a global centre for clean hydrogen production. 

If consolidated, green hydrogen could become a strategic source of income for Morocco, especially through exports to Europe, a continent that lacks sustainable alternatives to fossil fuels. 

But investments are not only focused on industry and the economy. Urban development is also part of Dakhla's transformation. With the construction of large, modern residential complexes such as Westpoint Residence and ARKSUR, Morocco wants to bring Dakhla's housing stock up to the same standard as the rest of the country's cities. Sports complexes, leisure facilities and modern, sustainable infrastructure will be available to all residents. Finally, road infrastructure is being modernised to improve connectivity in the region, strengthening Dakhla's integration with the rest of the country and the continent.