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The Maritime Promenade of Hassan II Mosque

Casablanca, Morocco

2017 - Ongoing
Green SpacesPublic SpacesUrban ParkWaterfront

Project Description

Approach Words: Attractive City, Sustainability, Urban Livability

Public Policy Instruments: Financial Mechanism, Organization, Physical Intervention, Planning

The Maritime Promenade of Hassan II Mosque is a seaside development project in Casablanca, Morocco.1 2 It extends along the coastline from the Hassan II Mosque to El Hank tip, covering the Casablanca-Anfa Districts3 and the Ain Diab corniche.4 This project is part of a larger initiative to upgrade the Casablanca-Settat region’s coastline,i 5 which includes five waterfront sections: Al Hank, Aïn Sebaâ, Dar Bouazza, Mohammédia, and Aïn Diab.6 It also aligns with the Greater Casablanca Development Planii(2015-2020).7

The project aims to achieve three primary objectives: enhance the quality of life for residents8 by establishing a public space devoted to recreation and entertainment,9 foster social cohesion10 by creating a platform that facilitates interactions and serves as a communal gathering place for all Casablanca residents,11 and boost the city’s appeal to tourists, thereby strengthening its position as a desirable destination.12

Title: Development Strategy for the Waterfront in Greater Casablanca.

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Title: The five corniche segments in the plan for upgrading the coastline of the Casablanca-Settat Region.

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Title: Arial View of the Maritime Promenade of Hassan II Mosque.

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Title: Maritime Promenade of Hassan II Mosque After Construction.

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The project spans 1.5 kilometers and covers an area of approximately 130,000 square meters.13 It is divided into three main zones: a lookout panoramic zone, a recreational zone, and a cultural zone.14 15 These zones are designed to provide a variety of outdoor public spaces, including spaces for leisure, walkways, sports facilities, and green spaces, all with direct beach access and panoramic views of the ocean.16 The three zones and their associated activities are as follows:

(1) The lookout panoramic zone:

  • A wide, open promenade along the ocean’s edge extending to El Hank Point.17
  • An Agora and platform for hosting events.18
  • Pedestrian walkways integrated with the plazas of the Hassan II Mosque.19

(2) The recreational zone:

  • Shaded green spaces inspired by Islamic gardens,20 featuring low-maintenance plant species adapted to the local environment.21
  • Children’s playgrounds and sports areas.22
  • Integrated trails for joggers, walkers, and cyclists.23
  • Rest areas and meeting points.24

(3) The cultural zone:

  • A dedicated space with kiosks for selling handicrafts.25

Additional features include a commercial area for restaurants and coffee shops,26 and an underground parking facility with 1,000 spaces.27 Additionally, the project incorporates modern LED lighting and an efficient water management system for irrigation.28

The project was initiated by the Municipality of Casablanca and Casablanca Aménagement,29 30 a public limited-liability company established in October 2008 following the preparation of the “Master Plan for Urban Development (SDAU)” for the Greater Casablanca Region.31 The master plan of the promenade was designed by the Canadian consultant firm Lemay.32 The project cost is over $20 million,33 in addition to the $15 million allocated for the construction of the underground parking.34 The project is primarily funded by the Ministry of the Interior – General Directorate of Local Authorities ($14 million) and the municipality of Casablanca ($6 million).35

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