Everything you need to know about Morocco's flagship Prince Moulay Abdellah Sports Complex in Rabat. Capacity, facilities, transport, hotels, seating guide, and match day tips for AFCON 2025 and World Cup 2030.
Prince Moulay Abdellah Sports Complex stands as Morocco's flagship sporting venue and the crown jewel of Rabat's sporting infrastructure. With a capacity of 69,500, this iconic stadium will host the AFCON 2025 Opening Match and Final, as well as key fixtures for the 2030 FIFA World Cup. Whether you're attending the tournament or visiting for a Morocco national team match, this guide covers everything you need to know. For an overview of all venues, check out our complete guide to AFCON 2025 stadiums.
Stadium Overview
Quick Facts
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Official Name | Prince Moulay Abdellah Sports Complex (Stade Prince Moulay Abdellah) |
| Also Known As | Grand Stade de Rabat, Stade Moulay Abdellah |
| Location | Madinat Al Irfane, Rabat, Morocco |
| Capacity | 69,500 (AFCON 2025 configuration) |
| Opened | March 6, 1983 |
| Renovated | 2024-2025 (AFCON 2025 & World Cup 2030 upgrades) |
| Home Teams | Morocco National Team, FUS Rabat |
| Surface | Natural grass (FIFA Quality Pro certified) |
| Dimensions | 105m × 68m (standard FIFA) |
| Architect | Groupe 3 Architectes (original), SCAU (renovation) |
Stadium Significance
Morocco's Premier Venue:
National Team Home — Primary venue for Atlas Lions matches
AFCON 2025 Centerpiece — Hosts Opening Match (Dec 21) and Final (Jan 18)
World Cup 2030 — Designated as one of Morocco's 6 World Cup stadiums
Historic Matches — Hosted 1988 AFCON, 2013 FIFA Club World Cup, 2014 FIFA Club World Cup Final
Recent Upgrades (2024-2025):
Expanded capacity from 52,000 to 69,500
New VIP and hospitality areas (3,500 premium seats)
State-of-the-art LED lighting system
Upgraded media facilities (250+ press positions)
Enhanced accessibility features
Modern dressing rooms and player facilities
Improved concourse and concession areas
Underground parking expansion (5,200 spaces)
Getting to Prince Moulay Abdellah Sports Complex
Address: Avenue Moulay Abdellah, Madinat Al Irfane, Rabat 10100, Morocco
GPS Coordinates: 33.9847° N, 6.8489° W
From Rabat City Center
By Tramway (BEST OPTION):
Lines: 1 or 2 to Madinat Al Irfane station
Journey Time: 10-15 minutes from Gare Rabat Ville
Frequency: Every 10-15 minutes (increased on match days)
Cost: ~10 MAD ($1)
Operating Hours: 5:30 AM - 11:30 PM
Stadium Distance: 400m walk from tram station (5 minutes)
Tram Stations Near Stadium:
1Madinat Al Irfane (closest) — 400m, 5-minute walk
2Hay Riad — 800m, 10-minute walk
By Taxi:
From City Center: 30-50 MAD ($3-5), 15 minutes
From Rabat Ville Train Station: 40-60 MAD, 10 minutes
From Agdal District: 25-40 MAD, 10 minutes
Apps: Careem, Heetch available in Rabat
By Car:
From City Center: Take Avenue Moulay Abdellah north
Parking: Underground parking (5,200 spaces), ~20-30 MAD
Match Day: Arrive 2+ hours early for parking
Traffic: Heavy on match days — tram recommended
From Rabat-Salé Airport (RBA)
Distance: 18 km (30 minutes)
Option 1: Train + Tram
Airport train to Rabat Ville station (15 min, ~25 MAD)
Tram Line 1/2 to Madinat Al Irfane (10 min, ~10 MAD)
Total: ~35 MAD, 30-35 minutes
Option 2: Taxi
Direct to stadium: 150-200 MAD ($15-20), 30 minutes
Pre-book for guaranteed service
From Other Cities
From Casablanca:
Train: Al Boraq high-speed to Rabat Ville (55 min, ~80 MAD)
Then tram to stadium (10 min)
Total Journey: ~70 minutes
From Tangier:
Train: Al Boraq to Rabat Ville (2h 10min, ~150 MAD)
Then tram to stadium
From Marrakech:
Train: Conventional to Rabat (2h 30min, ~120 MAD)
Then tram to stadium
Stadium Layout & Seating Guide
Seating Sections
Prince Moulay Abdellah Sports Complex features a bowl design with continuous seating around the pitch.
Main Sections:
1. Tribune Présidentielle (Presidential Stand)
Location: West side, center
Capacity: ~8,000 (including VIP)
Features: Premium seating, VIP boxes, best views
Access: Dedicated entrances, hospitality lounges
Price Range: Premium tier (800-1,500 MAD for AFCON)
2. Tribune Est (East Stand)
Location: Opposite Presidential Stand
Capacity: ~17,000
Features: Standard seating, good views
Popular With: Away fans (designated sections)
Price Range: Mid-tier (400-800 MAD)
3. Tribune Nord (North Stand)
Location: Behind north goal
Capacity: ~22,000
Features: Closest to action, vocal atmosphere
Popular With: Ultras, passionate fans
Price Range: Budget-friendly (200-500 MAD)
4. Tribune Sud (South Stand)
Location: Behind south goal
Capacity: ~22,500
Features: Family-friendly sections available
Popular With: Local supporters
Price Range: Budget-friendly (200-500 MAD)
Best Seats
For Atmosphere:
Tribune Nord (North Stand) — Ultras section, loudest
Tribune Sud (South Stand) — Family-friendly but energetic
For Views:
Tribune Présidentielle (center, elevated) — Best overall view
East Stand (center sections) — Excellent pitch view
For Families:
Tribune Sud (designated family sections)
East Stand (upper rows, quieter)
For Photography:
Tribune Présidentielle (center) — Ideal angle
Corner sections (diagonal views)
Accessibility
Wheelchair Access:
Dedicated wheelchair platforms in all stands
Accessible entrances at Gates 2, 5, 8
Companion seating available
Accessible restrooms throughout
Elevator Access:
12 elevators serving all levels
Priority access for disabled visitors
Stadium Facilities
Concessions & Food
Food Options:
Concession Stands: 40+ locations throughout stadium
Cuisine: Moroccan (tagine, couscous), international (burgers, pizza)
Snacks: Sandwiches, pastries, chips
Beverages: Soft drinks, coffee, tea, juice (no alcohol)
Prices:
Sandwiches: 30-50 MAD
Hot meals: 50-80 MAD
Drinks: 10-20 MAD
Snacks: 15-30 MAD
Payment:
Cash and cards accepted
Mobile payment available
Recommendations:
Arrive early to avoid halftime queues
Try Moroccan pastries (chebakia, sellou)
Mint tea is a local favorite
Restrooms
Total: 120+ restroom facilities
Distribution: All concourse levels
Accessible: 24 accessible restrooms
Family: Dedicated family restrooms available
Fan Zones & Entertainment
Pre-Match:
Fan Zone: Opens 3 hours before kickoff
Location: North plaza
Features: Music, entertainment, food trucks
Activities: Photo opportunities, merchandise
Concourse:
Wide concourses (8-12m width)
Merchandise kiosks
Interactive displays
Charging stations
Medical & Safety
Medical Facilities:
On-site medical center
First aid stations (8 locations)
Ambulance access points
Defibrillators throughout
Security:
Metal detectors at all entrances
Bag checks (clear bags recommended)
CCTV coverage
Security personnel throughout
Match Day Experience
Arrival & Entry
Recommended Arrival Times:
Regular Matches: 60-90 minutes before kickoff
Morocco National Team: 90-120 minutes early
AFCON 2025 Matches: 2-3 hours early (Opening, Final)
Entry Process:
1Security Screening — Bag check, metal detector
2Ticket Scan — QR code or physical ticket
3Fan ID Check (AFCON 2025) — YALLA app verification
4Concourse Access — Find your section
What to Bring:
Valid ticket (digital or printed)
Fan ID (AFCON 2025 mandatory)
Photo ID (passport/national ID)
Small bag (max 30cm × 30cm × 15cm)
Portable charger
Light jacket (December evenings cool)
Prohibited Items:
Weapons, sharp objects
Fireworks, flares, smoke bombs
Alcohol, illegal substances
Large bags, backpacks
Professional cameras (DSLR with detachable lens)
Drones
Laser pointers
Atmosphere
Morocco National Team Matches:
Attendance: Typically 60,000-69,500 (sold out)
Atmosphere: Electric, passionate, loud
Chants: "Dima Maghrib" (Always Morocco), national anthem
Colors: Red and green everywhere
Drums & Flags: Ultras sections very active
AFCON 2025:
Opening Match: Expect record atmosphere
Final: Once-in-a-lifetime experience
International Fans: Diverse, colorful, festive
Tips for First-Timers:
Embrace the energy and passion
Learn basic chants ("Dima Maghrib!")
Wear red or green (Morocco colors)
Respect local customs
Stay hydrated
Hotels Near Prince Moulay Abdellah Sports Complex
Within 2km (Walking Distance)
Luxury (5★):
1. The View Rabat
Distance: 1.9 km from stadium
Price: $150-250/night
Features: Modern design, rooftop pool, city views
Why Stay: Closest upscale option, walkable to stadium
Booking: Major platforms
2. Sofitel Rabat Jardin des Roses
Distance: 4 km from stadium
Price: $180-350/night
Features: Rose gardens, spa, fine dining
Why Stay: Luxury experience, easy tram access
Booking: Sofitel.com
Within 5km (Easy Tram Access)
Mid-Range (3-4★):
3. Ibis Rabat Agdal
Distance: 3 km from stadium
Price: $70-120/night
Features: Budget-friendly, reliable chain
Why Stay: Value for money, near tram
Booking: Accor.com
4. Hotel Majliss
Distance: 3.5 km
Price: $60-100/night
Features: Comfortable, local charm
Why Stay: Affordable, good location
5. Riad Kalaa (Medina)
Distance: 7 km from stadium
Price: $80-150/night
Features: Traditional riad, authentic experience
Why Stay: Cultural immersion, 30 min tram ride
Booking: Riads.com, Airbnb
Budget Options
6. Auberge de Jeunesse (Youth Hostel)
Distance: 5 km
Price: $15-30/night (dorms), $40-60 (private)
Features: Social atmosphere, budget-friendly
Why Stay: Backpacker favorite
Booking Tips
For AFCON 2025:
Book 3+ months ahead for Opening/Final
Expect 50-100% price increases during tournament
Consider Airbnb for better value
Stay near tram lines for easy access
For Regular Matches:
Book 1-2 weeks ahead
Standard rates apply
More availability
Food & Drink Around the Stadium
Pre-Match Dining
Near Stadium (Madinat Al Irfane):
1. Café Maure
Distance: 500m from stadium
Cuisine: Moroccan, café
Specialties: Mint tea, pastries, tagine
Price: Budget-friendly (30-80 MAD)
Hours: 8 AM - 11 PM
2. Restaurant Al Mounia
Distance: 1 km
Cuisine: Traditional Moroccan
Specialties: Couscous, pastilla, mechoui
Price: Mid-range (100-200 MAD)
Reservation: Recommended for groups
In Agdal District (3km)
3. La Bodega
Cuisine: Spanish tapas, Mediterranean
Price: Mid-range (120-250 MAD)
Atmosphere: Lively, popular with locals
4. Ty Potes
Cuisine: French bistro
Price: Mid-range (100-180 MAD)
Good For: Pre-match meals
In Rabat City Center (7km)
5. Dar Naji
Cuisine: Traditional Moroccan
Specialties: Pastilla, tagine
Price: Budget-friendly (60-120 MAD)
Atmosphere: Authentic, local favorite
6. Paul (Multiple Locations)
Cuisine: French bakery, café
Good For: Quick bites, coffee
Price: Budget (30-80 MAD)
Post-Match Celebrations
Agdal District:
Numerous cafés and restaurants
15-minute tram ride from stadium
Lively atmosphere after Morocco wins
Rabat Medina:
Traditional souks and eateries
30-minute tram ride
Authentic Moroccan experience
AFCON 2025 at Prince Moulay Abdellah
Tournament Schedule
Confirmed Matches:
Opening Match — December 21, 2025
Match: Morocco vs. Mali
Kickoff: 8:00 PM local time (GMT+1)
Expected Attendance: 69,500 (sold out)
Significance: Morocco's tournament debut on home soil
Group Stage Matches:
Multiple Group A matches
Select matches from other groups
Dates: December 21-30
Knockout Rounds:
Quarter-final: January 11 or 12
Semi-final: January 15 or 16
FINAL — January 18, 2026
Kickoff: 8:00 PM local time
Expected Attendance: 69,500 (sold out)
Significance: Crowning of African champions
Ticket Information
AFCON 2025 Tickets:
Platform: tickets.cafonline.com
Fan ID: Mandatory (register via YALLA app)
Prices:
Category 1 (Premium): 800-1,500 MAD
Category 2 (Standard): 400-800 MAD
Category 3 (Budget): 200-400 MAD
Opening/Final: Higher prices, limited availability
Booking Tips:
Register Fan ID early
Book tickets as soon as sales open
Morocco matches sell out in minutes
Consider package deals
World Cup 2030 Preparations
Stadium Role
FIFA World Cup 2030:
One of 6 Moroccan World Cup stadiums
Expected to host 6-8 World Cup matches
Potential for Round of 16, Quarter-final matches
Capacity may expand to 75,000+ for World Cup
Ongoing Upgrades:
Phase 2 renovations (2026-2029)
Enhanced VIP facilities
Expanded media center
Improved player facilities
Sustainability features (solar panels, water recycling)
Match Day Tips & Tricks
Insider Tips
Best Time to Arrive:
Take tram 2 hours before kickoff (avoid rush)
Explore fan zone while waiting
Grab food before entering (cheaper outside)
Seating Strategy:
Tribune Nord for atmosphere
Tribune Présidentielle for comfort
Arrive early for best unreserved seats (if applicable)
Weather Preparation:
December-January: 15-20°C daytime, 8-12°C evening
Bring light jacket or sweater
Rain possible (bring poncho)
Sunny days: sunscreen, hat
Photography:
Smartphones allowed
No professional cameras
Best shots from center sections
Capture pre-match atmosphere
After the Match:
Wait 15-20 minutes to avoid tram crush
Explore nearby cafés
Taxis more available 30 min after final whistle
What Makes It Special
Unique Features:
Home of Atlas Lions — Morocco's fortress
Historic Venue — Hosted major tournaments since 1983
Modern Upgrades — State-of-the-art facilities
Passionate Fans — Electric atmosphere
Rabat Location — Capital city prestige
Memorable Moments:
1988 AFCON matches
2013 & 2014 FIFA Club World Cup Finals
Morocco World Cup qualifiers
AFCON 2025 Opening & Final (upcoming)
Practical Information
Contact & Information
Stadium Management:
Operator: SONARGES (Société Nationale de Réalisation et de Gestion des Stades)
Phone: +212 537 540 600
Email: [email protected]
Website: www.sonarges.ma
AFCON 2025 Info:
Tickets: tickets.cafonline.com
Fan ID: www.yallamorocco.ma
CAF Support: [email protected]
Emergency Services
Police: 19
Ambulance: 15
Fire: 15
Tourist Police: +212 537 730 818
Nearby Attractions
Within 5km:
Hassan Tower (7 km) — Historic minaret
Mausoleum of Mohammed V (7 km) — Royal burial site
Kasbah of the Udayas (8 km) — Medieval fortress
Chellah (6 km) — Roman-Islamic ruins
Rabat Medina (7 km) — Old city souks
Day Trip Options:
Casablanca (90 km) — Hassan II Mosque, 1-hour train
Salé (5 km) — Across river, pottery souks
Temara Beach (15 km) — Atlantic coast
Conclusion
Prince Moulay Abdellah Sports Complex represents the pinnacle of Moroccan football infrastructure. As the venue for AFCON 2025's Opening Match and Final, plus a key World Cup 2030 stadium, it offers world-class facilities combined with passionate Moroccan atmosphere.
Key Takeaways:
✅ 69,500 capacity — Morocco's flagship stadium
✅ Easy access — Tram directly to stadium (Madinat Al Irfane)
✅ AFCON 2025 — Opening Match (Dec 21) & Final (Jan 18)
✅ Modern facilities — Recent renovations, premium amenities
✅ Great atmosphere — Home of passionate Atlas Lions fans
✅ Central location — Rabat capital city, excellent transport links
Whether you're attending AFCON 2025, a Morocco national team match, or planning ahead for World Cup 2030, Prince Moulay Abdellah Sports Complex promises an unforgettable experience.
Dima Maghrib! (Always Morocco!) 🇲🇦⚽
Resources:
Stadium Info: www.sonarges.ma
AFCON Tickets: tickets.cafonline.com
Fan ID: www.yallamorocco.ma
Rabat Tourism: www.visitrabat.com
*Last updated: November 28, 2025*
In this article
- Stadium Overview
- Getting to Prince Moulay Abdellah Sports Complex
- Stadium Layout & Seating Guide
- Stadium Facilities
- Match Day Experience
- Hotels Near Prince Moulay Abdellah Sports Complex
- Food & Drink Around the Stadium
- AFCON 2025 at Prince Moulay Abdellah
- World Cup 2030 Preparations
- Match Day Tips & Tricks
- Practical Information
- Conclusion
Written by
Morocco Stadiums Team
AFCON 2025 Guide