Medina Bike*

Medina Bike is a bike-sharing system launched in Marrakesh, making it the first of its kind on the African continent. Named after the city’s historic center, the initiative aligns with Morocco’s broader efforts and envisions “implementing green transportation and promoting sustainable urban mobility”. Alongside Marrakech’s new fleet of electric buses, it reflects the government’s commitment to practical solutions for sustainable development.

The initiative aims to revive cycling culture in Marrakesh and encourage residents to use non-motorized transport. By promoting bike-sharing systems, Medina Bike helps reduce urban congestion, lower carbon emissions, and fight against the negative impacts of climate change by boosting sustainable transportation.

Medina Bike operates a fleet of 300 bikes with 10 automatic rental stations strategically installed in key locations , including Koutoubia Mosque and Majorelle Garden.

This bike-sharing system integrates innovative technology solutions:
• Smart bikes: equipped with embedded communication technology.
• Solar-Powered Stations: Free-standing, energy-efficient stations that require no civil engineering for installation.
• Overflow feature: Allows users to return bikes even when stations are full.

Ensuring affordability for lower-income residents was a key priority. Consequently, for an inclusive system, various payment methods were introduced, including cash, credit cards and smartphone app; options typically used in bike-sharing schemes.

Medina Bike was initiated by the Moroccan Ministry of Environment, in cooperation with the United Nations Industrial Development Organization (UNIDO) and the Global Environment Facility (GEF).

The system was developed and will be operated by the French bike company Smoove, in partnership with the local organization Estates Vision.

It is funded by the Global Environmental Facility. The project was inaugurated during the COP22 Climate Conference i in Marrakesh and will be maintained under a renewable five-year contract to ensure long-term sustainability.