Dakhla Atlantic Port: Morocco's New Gateway to West Africa
A Billion-Dollar Deep-Water Project
Located at El Argoub, roughly 40 kilometres north of Dakhla, the Dakhla Atlantic Port is a deep-water complex spread across some 650 hectares. Its estimated cost is over one billion US dollars, equivalent to roughly 12.5 to 13 billion dirhams, making it a flagship of Morocco's investment in its southern provinces.
Construction has progressed steadily and has passed the 60 percent completion mark, with the maritime viaduct linking the port to the mainland among the most advanced structures. Officials target final delivery by the end of 2028, with operations expected to begin in 2029.
What the Port Will Handle
Once operational, the port is projected to handle around 35 million tonnes of goods per year. The complex is designed as a multi-purpose facility, combining a commercial trade port with an oil terminal, a dedicated fishing port and a shipyard for vessel maintenance.
This mix reflects the economic profile of the region, which depends heavily on fisheries, phosphates and emerging energy projects. By concentrating these functions in one modern hub, Morocco aims to lower logistics costs across the south.
A Continental Trade Ambition
The port is positioned as a gateway between Morocco, West Africa and the wider Atlantic basin. It is a central pillar of Rabat's strategy to connect the Sahel and sub-Saharan markets to maritime trade routes.
By facing the Canary Islands and the Atlantic shipping lanes, Dakhla is meant to complement the Mediterranean hub of Tanger Med, giving Morocco a second major ocean gateway oriented toward Africa and the Americas.
Linking Land and Sea
The port does not stand alone. It is connected to the newly completed Tiznit–Dakhla expressway and planned rail and road links that extend toward neighbouring countries.
Together with desalination, energy and fisheries projects in the area, the port anchors a broader development push intended to transform Dakhla from a remote coastal town into a regional logistics centre.
Frequently asked
When will the Dakhla Atlantic Port open?
Construction is targeted for completion by the end of 2028, with port operations expected to begin in 2029.
How much cargo will the port handle?
The port is designed to handle around 35 million tonnes of goods per year across commercial, oil, fishing and shipyard facilities.
How much does the project cost?
The estimated cost exceeds one billion US dollars, roughly 12.5 to 13 billion Moroccan dirhams.