Former President Donald Trump claims Morocco named the Tiznit‑Dakhla highway after him, highlighting Rabat's strategic push in the disputed Western Sahara. The move ties into US‑Morocco ties and Morocco's bid to host the 2030 World Cup.

Key Takeaways

  • Trump alleges Morocco named a major highway after him
  • The highway is part of a larger infrastructure push to cement control over Western Sahara
  • The timing aligns with Morocco's 2030 World Cup ambitions and renewed US support

Trump’s Claim and Rabat’s Silence

Former U.S. President Donald Trump posted on Truth Social thanking King Mohammed VI and saying he looks forward to traveling the “Great Highway one day.” Rabat has not officially confirmed the naming, leaving analysts to speculate on the political motives.

Historical Background

The United States recognized Morocco’s sovereignty over Western Sahara in December 2020, paving the way for Morocco’s participation in the Trump‑brokered Abraham Accords and the normalization of ties with Israel. This diplomatic boost helped Rabat advance its claims over the long‑disputed territory.

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Strategic Importance of the Highway

Spanning 1,055 km, the Tiznit‑Dakhla highway became fully operational in January 2026 at a cost of roughly $1 billion. It links southern Morocco to Mauritania, runs through Laayoune—the main city in Morocco‑controlled Western Sahara—and continues to the Dakhla Peninsula, where the Dakhla Atlantic Port is under construction.

Why This Matters

BozokMedia analysis shows that the naming serves Morocco’s broader goal of showcasing its infrastructural capability ahead of the 2030 World Cup, while also reinforcing the United States‑Morocco strategic partnership.

"The gesture is less about personal tribute and more about Morocco cementing its geopolitical narrative in Western Sahara." – Middle East Institute analyst Intissar Fakir
Did You Know?: The segment of the highway allegedly dedicated to Trump was only completed in late 2025, explaining the recent announcement.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q1: Has the Moroccan government officially confirmed the highway’s new name?

A: No official confirmation has been released, but experts consider the claim plausible given the political context.

Q2: What impact could this have on the Western Sahara conflict?

A: It could strengthen Morocco’s de‑facto control and attract further international backing, complicating the Polisario Front’s independence efforts.