فاس نيوز ميديا جريدة الكترونية جهوية تعنى بشؤون و أخبار جهة فاس مكناس – متجددة على مدار الساعة
In a significant move to strengthen Fes’s position as a regional sports center, the authorities have announced the results of the national engineering competition for designing and constructing a multipurpose sports hall, also known as “Salle Omnisports Fes” or “Fes Arena.” This project aligns with national efforts to develop sports infrastructure, particularly as Morocco prepares to host major international events such as the Futsal World Cup and the 2030 FIFA World Cup in partnership with other countries. The arena is seen as a modern alternative to older venues like the January 11 Hall, which has been described as being in a critical condition and urgently needing replacement.
The competition was launched in February 2025, inviting architectural and engineering proposals focused on innovative features like dynamic facades that interact with light and symbolize movement and unity in sports. By May 2025, a consulting firm was selected to oversee the project, marking an important step after the initial competition phase. In June 2025, necessary studies were completed, the site was confirmed, and public announcements highlighted the arena’s world-class standards.
The project is located in the Ouled Tayeb commune near Fes Saïs Airport on the Imouzzer road. Its site offers open spaces planted with olive trees and initial arrangements such as parking facilities. This strategic location supports broader urban improvements, including enhancing green spaces and transport connectivity. By August 2025, site preparations were visible, with scale models displayed to engage the public, although actual construction had not yet begun.
In July 2025, the technical supervision contract was awarded to AXE SURVEY for 714,000 dirhams, signaling that construction works were approaching under the supervision of the project owner, Fès Région Aménagements. The competition concluded in October 2025 with award presentations, including the fifth prize granted to a team of engineers: YSA Architectes, BHA Architects, and SG Studio. Their proposal features a fluid, mesh-like facade design reflecting dynamism, specifically aimed at hosting the Futsal World Cup in Morocco. Although first-place winners were not explicitly mentioned, the emphasis on national talent highlights Morocco’s push to leverage local expertise in projects meeting international standards.
Illustrations of the design show colorful circular pixelated patterns with a vibrant interior capable of accommodating large audiences for events such as basketball games, complete with modern scoreboards and lighting systems. Financially, the project carries a substantial budget of about 250 million dirhams (approximately 25 million USD), reflecting the scale of this significant infrastructure venture. This budget covers design, construction, and supervision, though some detailed specifics remain limited in reports.
The project’s purpose extends beyond local use, aligning with Morocco’s role as a co-host of the 2030 World Cup, positioning Fes as a key venue for international competitions. It complements the renewal of Fes’s sports complex, which now holds 35,000 seats with VIP areas and conference facilities, enhancing the city’s overall capacity to host major events.
Project Timeline
| Phase | Date | Details |
|---|---|---|
| Competition Launch | February 2025 | Announcement of architectural design and supervision competition |
| Selection of Consulting Firm | May 2025 | Supervision firm selected; 250 million dirham budget allocated |
| Site Studies Completed | June 2025 | Location confirmed near airport; public announcements |
| Supervision Contract | July 2025 | AXE SURVEY awarded 714,000 dirhams for technical oversight; construction imminent |
| Site Preparations | August 2025 | Scale models displayed; construction not yet started |
| Competition Results | October 2025 | Awards granted, including fifth prize to Moroccan architects |
Key Stakeholders
| Entity | Role | Details |
|---|---|---|
| Fès Région Aménagements | Project Owner | Oversees development and tender processes |
| AXE SURVEY | Project Supervision | Technical supervision contract valued at 714,000 dirhams |
| YSA Architectes, BHA Architects, SG Studio | Competition Participants | Awarded the fifth prize for their dynamic design proposal |
| Ministry of Youth and Sports (involved) | Regulatory Supervision | Potential role in approvals related to World Cup preparations |
The project integrates with Fes’s renewed sports complex, which includes an athletics stadium with VIP seating and media facilities, holding 35,000 spectators. Although no exact completion date has been set, sources express optimism about rapid progress to meet scheduled international events. Challenges such as delays in old halls underline the importance of this new facility in revitalizing regional sports. This initiative is not merely about constructing a sports venue but represents an investment in heritage and the future, balancing innovation with the preservation of Moroccan identity.
Summary
- Competition Win: Moroccan architects secured awards in the national design contest focusing on innovative designs combining local heritage and modernity.
- Budget and Location: The project has a budget of approximately 250 million Moroccan dirhams and is situated in Ouled Tayeb near Fes Saïs Airport, featuring preliminary infrastructure such as parking and green spaces.
- Timeline: The competition started in February 2025, awards were given in October 2025, and construction is expected to begin soon to host international events including the Futsal World Cup.
- Significance: The project will enhance Fes’s sports infrastructure by replacing aging venues like the January 11 Hall and aligns with Morocco’s preparations for the 2030 World Cup.
