An Innovative University Hospital District in Dakhla: A Forward-Looking Project Focused on Health and Community Well-being
The future Mohammed VI International University Hospital District in Dakhla is under development 10 km north of the city center, along national road N1B toward PK 25. This large-scale project spans 47 hectares and will include 27 major buildings, 50 villas, a solar farm, a wastewater treatment plant, and a helipad. It will serve as a cornerstone for the urban expansion of the city, seamlessly integrating between sea, lagoon, and desert.
The ambition of this complex matches the strategic importance of the region. It aims to become a major healthcare hub on a regional level while also reaching an international scale, positioned at the gateway to Sub-Saharan Africa. Its “Health Campus” will feature infrastructure dedicated to care, education, and research.
The hospital, with a capacity of 242 beds and care spaces, will cover a broad range of medical specialties and will be equipped with state-of-the-art technical facilities. A nearby residential building with 30 apartments will accommodate patients’ companions.
The university campus will house a variety of health-related disciplines and will welcome over 2,600 students.
The residential neighborhood will include 200 units in collective housing and 50 villas. Local shops and services will support daily life for residents. The project’s primary objective is to create a true piece of city within an untouched, arid territory—meeting the challenge of urban design focused on human well-being and in harmony with nature. Inspired by native vegetation, the architecture will consider local climate conditions: persistent northern winds, sea spray, low rainfall, and arid soil. The morphology and orientation of the buildings, along with the design of sheltered outdoor galleries, will provide natural protection against these environmental challenges.
In line with an ecological approach, the project will adopt responsible land use strategies, notably through greywater recycling for irrigation, helping to create a pleasant landscape and high-quality pedestrian pathways.
Lastly, the use of local construction systems, natural ventilation, and climate-adapted building techniques will ensure optimal integration with the environment—asserting the district’s sustainable and innovative identity.
Client
Mohammed VI Foundation for Health Sciences, Kingdom of Morocco
Architects
Youssef LAHKIM Architecte Studio + AIA Life Designers + Pictogramme
Engineering
Maroc Luseo + AIA Ingénierie
Environmental Expertise
AIA Environnement
Program
3 universities, 1 simulation center, 1 conference center, 1 sports center, 6 student residences, 1 restaurant, Residential district with 50 villas and 200 collective housing units, Community hub, 1 family residence, 1 administrative center, 1 hospital with 242 beds and care spaces, and 16 operating rooms
Surface Area
112,400 m²
Construction Cost
€160 million (excl. VAT)
Study Start
January 2024
Construction Start
Delivery Timeline