ZENATA ECO-CITY
CASABLANCA
Morocco
Zenata Eco-City is a pioneering sustainable urban development project located near Casablanca, It is Morocco’s first internationally recognized eco-city and a large-scale sustainable development project. Developed by Société d’Aménagement Zenata (SAZ), it is a pilot city under the “Climate Change” pillar of Morocco’s National Sustainable Development Strategy. The city is designed as a model of integrated, resilient urban planning that prioritizes social, economic, and environmental sustainability.
Strategically located between the major urban centres of Casablanca and Rabat, and adjacent to the Mohammed V International Airport, Zenata spans 1,830 hectares. As a dedicated development zone (DDZ), the project is a public-private partnership that integrates diverse functions – residential neighbourhoods, economic zones, and a university hospital into a cohesive master plan. It is designed to ultimately accommodate 300,000 inhabitants and create 100,000 jobs, serving as a green gateway to the Casablanca-Settat region.
Future Cities criteria compliance
Environmental & Nature
The first city in Africa with the Eco-City Label, Zenata uses bioclimatic urban morphology to exploit natural Atlantic winds for cooling, substantially cutting energy demand. 30% of the area features ecological green corridors.
The city employs wastewater recycling and stormwater management to maximize resource reuse. Efforts to minimize carbon footprint include promoting public transport, pedestrian pathways, and cycling infrastructure. Zenata is often highlighted for pioneering eco-friendly urban planning in the MENA region.
Smart City
Zenata implements a Smart City Strategy (5, 10, 20-year plan) focused on using technology for efficiency and human well-being, integrating over 100 initiatives. The digital framework is designed to optimize resource consumption, notably reducing water and energy use in the Eco-Industrial Park.
Human-Centric
The urban design focuses on walkability, social cohesion, and affordable housing to accommodate diverse populations and support inclusive growth. It draws inspiration from the Moroccan Medina to foster community and aims to create 100,000 new jobs in high-value sectors, driving significant economic uplift. It prioritizes quality of life through mixed-use neighbourhoods, community-centric public spaces, and access to essential services like schools, healthcare, and cultural centres.
Interesting Links
Links to external websites and video features available for cities and developments that apply and are accepted as Official Participants: click here to apply