Morocco has inaugurated the 55 story, 820 foot Mohammed VI Tower in Salé, near the capital Rabat, marking a major milestone in the country’s push to expand its global profile. The 700 million dollar skyscraper, inspired by a rocket on a launchpad, will house a luxury hotel, offices, shops, restaurants and high end apartments, and is already among the tallest buildings in Africa.

Built over eight years with the involvement of more than 2,500 workers from over a dozen countries, the project is expected to create 450 direct jobs and 3,500 indirect positions. Located near the Grand Theatre of Rabat and overlooking the Atlantic Ocean, the tower is intended to elevate Rabat and Salé as international destinations.

The development comes as Morocco strengthens its tourism sector, already the largest on the continent, and prepares to co host the 2030 World Cup. Officials present the tower as a symbol of the country’s growing regional influence, though critics argue that investment remains concentrated along the Atlantic coast while other regions face unemployment and strained public services.