Why it matters

A heritage site over 80 years old, closed since 2014, is set to reopen in a new form. The Zoological Park has undergone a redevelopment project to transform it into a state-of-the-art space (Immersive Zoo) to meet the city’s needs for recreational facilities.

Who is financing it

With a total estimated cost of 250 million dirhams, financed by the General Directorate of Local Authorities (DGCT) under the Ministry of the Interior with 130 million dirhams, the Casablanca municipality with 80 million, and the Casablanca-Settat region with 40 million.

What will be done

The project will include three geographical zones representing Africa, Asia, and the Americas. The park will cover an area of 13 hectares, with 10 hectares dedicated to animal habitats and 3 hectares allocated to recreational facilities.

According to Moulay Ahmed Afilal, Vice-President of the Casablanca City Council, the reopening of the park is scheduled for next September.

The zoo will feature a collection of over 45 animal species and will also include an educational farm, a veterinary clinic, two picnic areas, and a restaurant.

The park’s reopening will depend on the completion of the animals’ adaptation period and the required safety and welfare tests. According to Moulay Ahmed Afilal, Vice-President of the Casablanca City Council, the park is expected to reopen in September of the coming year.

Who is in charge

The project, overseen by SDL Casablanca Aménagement, has its architectural design handled by the Rain Forest Diseno and ID Prod group, while the engineering component is managed by the CED and Ingebatt consortium.

The park’s management has been entrusted to Dream Village, the company behind the eponymous eco-village located in the Mohammedia prefecture. In addition to maintaining the animal collection and implementing conservation programs, Dream Village will be responsible for developing recreational activities, as well as deploying environmental education and training programs.

Written in French by Younes Saoury, edited in English by Eric Nielson