Rabat – King Mohammed VI ordered today the opening of 157 mosques built, reconstructed, or restored across Morocco.
According to a statement from the Ministry of Habous and Islamic Affairs, the projects include 95 newly built mosques, 42 that underwent reconstruction, eight historic mosques rebuilt after deterioration, and 11 restored sites.
Together, these places of worship can receive up to 160,000 faithful.
The total cost reached MAD 647.3 million ($64.7 million). The projects relied on public funds as well as contributions from benefactors, a tradition that continues to shape religious life in Morocco.
The timing carries strong symbolism. Ramadan draws large crowds for daily prayers and night Taraweeh services. For many families, the mosque becomes a central space for reflection, solidarity, and community ties during the holy month.
This expanded capacity responds to this annual surge and to the needs of growing neighborhoods.
The King also approved the opening of the Mohammed VI Mosque and its annexes in N’Djamena, the capital of Chad. The initiative reflects Morocco’s religious cooperation efforts on the African continent.
In Agadir, the monarch gave his name to the Grand Mosque of Hay Salam. The mosque can host 3,600 worshippers and required an investment of MAD 62.5 million ($6.25 million).
With these openings, Morocco enters Ramadan with strengthened religious infrastructure, as communities across the country prepare to gather for prayer under expanded roofs and restored walls.
Morocco expects Thursday, February 19 to be the first day of Ramadan for 2026, depending on the moon sighting.
