In the eastern part of Rabat lies the Stade Al Barid, a lesser-known but significant venue for AFCON 2025. Until recently, the stadium had little international recognition, but a major renovation has transformed it into a modern football venue ready for the continent’s biggest stage. With upgraded facilities, improved seating, and enhanced infrastructure, the stadium now plays a key role in hosting matches during the tournament.
During AFCON 2025, Stade Al Barid will host several group-stage matches, making it an essential part of Rabat’s tournament setup. Thanks to its location outside the busy city center, the stadium is relatively easy to reach, though planning your route in advance is recommended.
On this page, you will find everything you need to know about the stadium’s renovation, the matches played here and how to get to Stade Al Barid.
Stadium information
- Location: Rabat
More about this host city > - Capacity: 18,000
- Build: 1970
- Home team: UTS
Situated in the Agdal district of Rabat, the Stade Al Barid has been part of Moroccan football for decades. Originally built in 1970, it served as the long-time home ground of Union Touarga Sports (UTS). The old venue had a capacity of only 2,000 spectators, basic turf and no lighting. This was far from meeting modern football standards.
Ahead of AFCON 2025, the stadium underwent a complete transformation. The new Stade Al Barid is now a modern football arena with seating for 18,000 fans and upgraded facilities throughout.
One of the most striking features of the renovated stadium is its innovative roof design, inspired by the shape of a protective cloud. Beyond its symbolism, it is also highly functional, providing shade from the sun, shelter from rain, and even collecting rainwater for pitch irrigation. In addition, the structure incorporates solar panels, making the stadium environmentally sustainable and energy efficient.
Matches at Stade Al Barid
| 23 December | Group D |
 DR Congo Benin | 1 0 |
| 26 December | Group A |
 Zambia Comoros | 0 0 |
| 27 December | Group C |
 Uganda Tanzania | 1 1 |
| 30 December | Group D |
 Botswana DR Congo | 0 3 |
In addition to group-stage fixtures, one Round of 16 match will also take place at Stade Al Barid.
Accessibility
The new Stade Al Barid is well-connected and easy to reach by various means of transport. Ahead of AFCON 2025, several infrastructure improvements are being completed to make access even smoother.
Train
Rabat has two main train stations:
- Rabat-Ville (city center)
- Rabat-Agdal (near the Agdal district)
Both are operated by ONCF, including the Al Boraq high-speed line (which connects Rabat to Casablanca, Tangier and Kenitra). From Rabat-Agdal, the stadium is just a short taxi ride or a 20-minute walk away.
Tram
Rabat has an efficient tram system with two lines (L1 and L2), covering a total of 42 stops. While there is no direct stop at the stadium, several are located nearby in the Agdal area, such as Avenue de France or Ibn Sina. From there, the stadium is easily accessible on foot or by taxi.
Bus
Rabat’s urban bus network is extensive and affordable, with multiple lines serving the Agdal district and the areas around the stadium.
For visitors traveling from outside Rabat, the new intercity bus station near the Prince Moulay Abdellah Complex serves as a major hub, offering connections that integrate smoothly with the local transport system.
Taxi
Petit taxis (blue): Ideal for short rides within Raba. They are fast, metered and inexpensive. Perfect for travel between tram or train stations and the stadium.
Grand taxis (white): Used for longer routes or shared travel between nearby cities.