Al Boraq High-Speed Train: Complete Guide
What Is Al Boraq?
Al Boraq, launched in 2018, is the first high-speed train service in Africa, operated by the national railway ONCF. Built with French TGV technology, it runs at speeds up to 320 km/h on the dedicated high-speed section, making it one of the fastest ways to travel between Morocco's northern cities.
The name refers to Al-Buraq, the mythical steed of Islamic tradition. The service has transformed travel along the busy Tangier-Rabat-Casablanca corridor, slashing journey times and offering a smooth, modern alternative to driving or flying.
Routes and Journey Times
The high-speed line runs from Tangier in the north to Kenitra, then continues on upgraded conventional track to Rabat and Casablanca. The headline journey, Tangier to Casablanca, takes about 2 hours 10 minutes, compared with nearly 5 hours before.
Tangier to Rabat takes roughly 1 hour 20 minutes, and Rabat to Casablanca about 50 minutes to an hour. From Casablanca and Rabat, you can connect to ONCF's regular intercity trains to reach Marrakech, Fes, Meknes and beyond, making Al Boraq a key link in a wider rail journey.
Classes and Comfort
Al Boraq offers two classes: first (1ère) and second (2ème). Both are clean, air-conditioned and comfortable, with large windows and a smooth ride. First class has wider, more spacious seating and is worth the modest extra cost on longer legs or busy days.
Trains have power sockets, luggage space and a cafe-bar car. Seats are reserved, so you are guaranteed a place, unlike on some conventional regional trains. The onboard experience is genuinely modern and a highlight for many visitors used to slower regional rail.
Ticket Prices and Booking
Fares are reasonable. A second-class Tangier-Casablanca ticket typically costs around 200-250 MAD, with first class a little more, though prices vary with demand and how early you book. Discounted advance fares are often available.
You can buy tickets at station counters and machines, or online and via the ONCF mobile app, which is the easiest way for visitors. Book ahead for weekends, holidays and peak times, as popular departures sell out. Keep your ticket or app QR code accessible for boarding.
Stations and Connections
Al Boraq serves Tangier (Tanger-Ville), Kenitra, Rabat-Agdal, and Casablanca-Voyageurs. From Casablanca-Voyageurs, the conventional network reaches Marrakech in around 3 hours and Fes via the eastern line. Rabat is a convenient interchange for many onward routes.
Stations are modern and well-signposted, with taxis and city transport outside. Arrive 20-30 minutes before departure to find your platform and carriage. Note that Casablanca's airport (Mohammed V) has its own rail link, so you can combine Al Boraq with airport transfers.
Tips for Riders
Download the ONCF app before travelling for the simplest booking and to check live schedules. Validate or keep your ticket ready, and note your assigned coach number, shown on platform displays and carriage exteriors.
Travel light if you can; while there is luggage space, large suitcases are easier to manage on less crowded departures. For the best scenery and a relaxed trip, choose daytime services. Al Boraq is punctual and reliable, and it is one of the most pleasant ways to see northern Morocco.
| Route | Journey Time | Approx. 2nd Class Fare |
|---|---|---|
| Tangier to Casablanca | ~2 hrs 10 min | ~200-250 MAD |
| Tangier to Rabat | ~1 hr 20 min | ~150-180 MAD |
| Rabat to Casablanca | ~50-60 min | ~70-100 MAD |
| Casablanca to Marrakech (connect) | ~3 hrs (conventional) | ~120-150 MAD |
Al Boraq Routes and Approximate Times
FAQ
Does Al Boraq go to Marrakech?
Not directly. The high-speed line currently runs between Tangier and Casablanca via Rabat. To reach Marrakech, take Al Boraq to Casablanca and connect to a conventional ONCF intercity train, which takes about 3 more hours. An extension toward Marrakech is planned for the future.
How do I book Al Boraq tickets?
You can book online, through the ONCF mobile app, or at station counters and machines. The app is easiest for visitors and lets you reserve a specific seat. Book ahead for weekends, holidays and peak departures, which can sell out, and keep your QR code ready for boarding.
Is first class worth it on Al Boraq?
First class offers wider, roomier seats for a modest price difference and is worth it on longer journeys or busy travel days. Second class is still clean, comfortable and air-conditioned, so budget travellers will be perfectly satisfied either way.
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