Towards generalization of BIM in Morocco: current status, challenges, and perspectives

Abstract The digital transformation of the construction industry has positioned Building Information Modeling as a key approach for improving collaboration, productivity, project quality, and lifecycle management. However, its adoption in Morocco remains limited and fragmented despite the country’s expanding infrastructure program. This systematic review assesses the current state of Building Information Modeling adoption in Morocco, identifies the principal barriers and enabling factors, and proposes a context-specific strategy for wider implementation. Literature published between 2010 and 2025 was identified through Scopus, Web of Science, IEEE Xplore, and ScienceDirect and was complemented by a documentary analysis of Moroccan regulations, institutional reports, professional initiatives, educational programs, and documented implementation activities. The evidence was synthesized narratively and supported by comparative policy benchmarking involving the United Kingdom, Singapore, France, the United Arab Emirates, Brazil, and South Africa. The findings indicate that adoption in Morocco is constrained by the absence of a national mandate, harmonized standards, institutional coordination, and legal recognition of digital information deliverables. Additional barriers include limited digital maturity among small and medium-sized enterprises, high implementation costs, shortages of qualified professionals, cultural resistance, interoperability difficulties, and unequal digital infrastructure. Nevertheless, major infrastructure investments, growing academic interest, private-sector initiatives, an emerging digitally skilled workforce, and proximity to European markets provide favorable conditions for development. Based on the synthesized evidence, a phased national roadmap for 2025–2035 is proposed, encompassing governance and standardization, pilot implementation, professional training, progressive requirements for public projects, financial support, and integration into higher education. Coordinated action among public authorities, professional organizations, universities, and industry is essential for achieving sustainable digital transformation and strengthening the regional competitiveness of Morocco’s construction sector.