UAE plans massive tourism village project in Morocco’s Sahara coast
Luxury resort proposal targets La Güera ghost town as bilateral investments deepen and regional infrastructure expands
RABAT, Morocco (MNTV) — The United Arab Emirates is planning to develop a large-scale tourism village along Morocco’s Atlantic coastline in the Sahara region, with a proposed project in the sparsely populated town of La Güera, according to local media reports.
The project site lies near Morocco’s southern border on the Atlantic coast and is often described as a “ghost town” due to its minimal population and limited infrastructure. Reports say the initiative reflects expanding UAE economic and political engagement in the region.
The proposed tourism complex would feature villas and chalets, hotels and guesthouses, luxury desert tents, swimming pools and water parks, spa and fitness facilities, sports areas, landscaped parks, restaurants and cafés, retail outlets, and family recreation zones.
Plans also include conference halls, a marina, security and reception services, parking areas, and full electricity, sewage, and internet infrastructure.
The development follows growing diplomatic and economic ties between Abu Dhabi and Rabat. The UAE opened a consulate in Laayoune in 2020 and is reportedly considering an embassy in Dakhla, signaling deeper engagement in the Sahara region amid shifting regional dynamics.
The UAE is among Morocco’s largest foreign investors, with Emirati investments reaching about $188 million in the first half of 2025, according to Morocco’s Ministry of Economy and Finance, ranking second after France.
In 2024, a consortium of Emirati and Moroccan firms signed memoranda of understanding for water and energy infrastructure projects valued at roughly $14 billion, involving Abu Dhabi National Energy Company (TAQA), Nareva, and the Mohammed VI Investment Fund.
The tourism initiative also aligns with Morocco’s broader infrastructure push ahead of co-hosting the 2030 FIFA World Cup with Spain and Portugal, as the kingdom seeks to expand hospitality capacity and attract international investors.
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