In a gesture both symbolic and unmistakable, Morocco has paid tribute to former U.S. President Donald Trump by naming its longest highway after him. The decision, approved by King Mohammed VI, marks the southern route connecting Tiznit to Dakhla—a key corridor through the disputed Western Sahara—as the Donald J. Trump Highway.
The announcement, made via the official Moroccan Agency for Press (MAP), followed a letter sent by the monarch to Trump on July 2, underscoring the move as a token of gratitude for his historic 2020 recognition of Morocco’s sovereignty over the region. “This landmark decision will forever remain etched in the hearts of all Moroccans,” the king wrote.
The 1,055-kilometre roadway, now the longest in Africa, stretches from the coastal city of Tiznit southward through the heart of the Sahara before reaching Dakhla. Construction began in 2015 under Mohammed VI’s vision for regional development and has since become a cornerstone of Morocco’s infrastructure ambitions in the area.
Trump’s 2020 stand that reshaped the dispute
In a surprise diplomatic shift in December 2020, Trump declared U.S. support for Morocco’s autonomy plan for Western Sahara, paving the way for the North African nation to normalize relations with Israel. The move came as a major victory for Rabat, which has controlled most of the phosphate-rich and strategically vital territory since Spain’s withdrawal in 1975. However, the United Nations still classifies the region as non-self-governing, and the Polisario Front—backed by Algeria—continues to demand independence.
The newly renamed highway represents more than just a road; it embodies Morocco’s deep appreciation for the former president’s role in advancing its territorial claims. The infrastructure project, still partially under development, includes a high-speed segment from Tiznit to Laâyoune—the administrative heart of the disputed region—before transitioning into a widened national road leading to Dakhla. With a price tag nearing €850 million, it stands as a testament to Morocco’s commitment to integrating and developing its southern provinces.
A reciprocal gesture of unwavering support
In a public response shared by MAP on August 1, Trump reciprocated the honour in a message marking the 27th anniversary of Mohammed VI’s accession to the throne. The former president reaffirmed his backing for Rabat’s autonomy proposal, calling it “the only viable foundation for a just and lasting solution.” He added, “Any alternative path only prolongs the status quo and is unacceptable.”
On his Truth Social platform, Trump expressed excitement over the highway’s new name, writing, “What an incredible honour! I look forward to driving the full length of this magnificent road one day—hopefully soon!” Although Rabat has not confirmed his claim about visiting the site, the gesture reflects the strong diplomatic bond forged between the two leaders.
Aerial footage of the Tiznit-Dakhla corridor, released alongside the announcement, showcases the sweeping scale of the project—complete with modern bridges, service areas, and solar-powered lighting systems. While the highway is not yet fully operational, sections have already begun to transform connectivity and economic potential across southern Morocco and the Western Sahara.
