Rabat Reportedly to Launch Two Amphibious Buses to Boost Bouregreg Tourism

Marrakech – Rabat is preparing to introduce a pioneering tourism initiative with the acquisition of two amphibious buses designed to operate on both land and water along the Bouregreg Valley.

According to several converging reports from Moroccan news outlets, the project, managed by the local development company Rabat Region Mobility, comes with an estimated investment of MAD 23 million ($2.3 million).

These specialized vehicles will be capable of traveling on roads just like conventional buses before transitioning to navigate the Bouregreg River, offering tourists a unique dual-mode experience.

The amphibious buses will feature panoramic views with glass roofs to maximize visibility of urban and riverside landscapes.

They will be equipped with multilingual audio guides synchronized for both land and water travel, accessibility features for people with reduced mobility, and modern amenities such as ventilation, connectivity, and ergonomic seating.

The vehicles’ exteriors will receive special treatment to resist marine corrosion, with safety systems specifically designed for transitions between land and water operations. This technical adaptation ensures the buses can withstand the challenging dual environment.

The implementation timeline spans 50 months and is divided into two distinct phases. The first phase covers 14 months for delivery and commissioning of the vehicles, while the second conditional phase extends over three years for maintenance, monitoring, and potential service expansion.

This initiative aims to strengthen the connection between the two banks of the capital while establishing a structured tourist route combining a land circuit and a river crossing. The project forms part of the broader strategy “Rabat, City of Lights, Cultural Capital of Morocco” to enhance the city’s tourism offerings.

The buses will allow visitors to discover major landmarks, including the Kasbah of Oudayas, Hassan Tower, the Marina, and the Salé Medina quarters from a fresh perspective.

If successful, authorities may consider progressive reinforcement with additional vehicles to further establish Rabat as a major tourist destination with innovative, experiential mobility solutions.

The public tender for this project is expected to conclude in late December, and implementation will begin shortly thereafter. The amphibious buses represent Rabat’s latest step in urban innovation, blending immersive experience with territorial attractiveness while promoting sustainable tourism development.