Mohammedia, known in Arabic as المŘŮ…ŘŻŮŠŘ© (Al-Mohammadiya) and historically referred to as FĂ©dala, is a prominent urban commune situated along the Atlantic coast of Morocco. Positioned strategically between the administrative capital, Rabat, and the economic powerhouse, Casablanca, the city plays a critical role in the infrastructure and industrial landscape of the Grand Casablanca-Settat region.
The geography of Mohammedia is defined by its coastal location, which has facilitated its development into a major industrial center. The city is home to the Samir refinery, which stands as the primary oil refinery in Morocco. This facility is central to the nation's energy sector, supported by the kingdom's main oil port located within the commune. Furthermore, the suburbs of Mohammedia host the country's largest thermal power station, an essential utility that provides a significant portion of the electricity supply for the entire Grand Casablanca region.
As of the 2014 census, Mohammedia recorded a population of 208,612 inhabitants. The city functions as a dynamic urban environment where the pace of industrial activity meets the daily rhythms of a coastal Moroccan town. Residents benefit from its proximity to the major metropolitan areas of the country, making it a key residential and professional hub within the prefecture of Mohammedia.
While Mohammedia is primarily recognized for its industrial contributions, its coastal setting provides a distinct character compared to inland cities. Visitors traveling between Casablanca and Rabat often pass through the area, noting its unique position as a bridge between the two major urban centers. The city offers basic amenities and infrastructure to support its population and transient visitors. Those planning to visit or conduct business in the area will find that the city's connectivity via the coastal road and rail networks makes it highly accessible from the surrounding regions.
The transition from its former name, FĂ©dala, to its current name, Mohammedia, reflects a significant chapter in the city's history. The urban identity is deeply intertwined with its evolution from a coastal settlement into a cornerstone of Morocco's energy infrastructure. The city maintains a balance between its historical roots and its modern role as an industrial engine, providing a glimpse into the diverse economic activities that sustain the Grand Casablanca-Settat region.
