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Living in Casablanca: The Ultimate Expat Guide

Living in Casablanca: The Ultimate Expat Guide

Updated: January 2025

 

In Europe, Morocco comes up mostly as a holiday destination. But why limit your stay in this vibrant country to just a week or two? 

 

It is an incredibly diverse country, with its rich culture shaped by Islamic, French, and Spanish influences. Suppose you’d like to experience living in a place which combines Arabic culture with just enough of the European touch to make it feel a little bit less foreign and overwhelming. In that case, Morocco is the perfect destination for you. 

 

Imagine eating delicious food, surfing, and basking in sunrays every single day of the year. It’s possible! Find out how to move to Casablanca, Morocco with our Ultimate Expat Guide.


 

  1. Work in Casablanca, Morocco

 

Casablanca is the business heart of Marocco. The headquarters of a majority of big, international companies are based there. Therefore, it is also the best place to look for a job in Morocco, as the number of opportunities is the highest in the country. 

 

The easiest way to get a job in Morocco is to be transferred by an international company you already work for. Big enterprises are more likely to sponsor work permits and visas for international hires than small businesses, but the process can be quite long. 



 

Useful job boards when living in Casablanca, Morocco


 

Don’t worry if a transfer is not in the cards for you - there are plenty of resources to look for a job in Casablanca. Firstly, have a look at the vacancies posted at Europe Language Jobs. We specialise in job offers abroad, allowing you to find work with the languages you speak.

 

You can also use these job boards popular in Morocco:

 

In English:

 


 

In French:

 


 

Sectors & languages in demand


 

Arabic is the official language in Morocco, but French is considered the language of business. You can expect to speak English in international companies, but knowledge of either Arabic or French is very useful to navigate meetings and paperwork, or negotiate and close deals.

 

Morocco has trade deals with some Asian, Scandinavian, and Eastern European countries. Therefore, the languages spoken in these parts of the world are in high demand. You can also expect a higher salary for positions involving these languages, as their speakers are not easy to find in Morocco.

 

The tourism sector thrives in the majority of key Moroccan cities. However, while Casablanca is still visited by many tourists from all over the world, it remains the business centre of the country. Therefore, you can expect to find positions in sales, customer service, marketing, or finance. 



Working culture

 

Moroccan culture is heavily influenced by the French due to the long years it has spent as its protectorate - this is also true for the business culture. 

 

The French influence on the business world prioritises formality and courtesy. Handshakes are common for introductions between people of the same gender. In exchanges between men and women, the woman should be the first one to offer her hand. If she doesn’t, the man is expected to bow his head in greeting. 

 

First impressions matter in Morocco, so you should pay attention to your attire. Always check with your company what kind of dress code they follow. 

 

Morocco is a Muslim country, and it is important to remember about it in the business world as well. You should avoid scheduling meetings during the prayer times between 11 AM and 3 PM on Fridays. Try to schedule them a week or two in advance, and remember to confirm a day or two before. 

 

Make sure to double-check which language the meeting will be held in beforehand. In big, international companies, it will most likely be English, but there is always a chance it could be French. If you don’t speak that language, ask for a translator.

 

The standard working week in Morocco is 40 hours, with most businesses running from 9 AM to 7 PM. This includes time for prayers and a long lunch break. On Fridays, many shops and businesses close between 11 AM and 3 PM to allow Muslim employees to attend the weekly prayer service.

 

Employees in Morocco are entitled to 18 days of annual leave. This increases to 21 days after ten years of employment. On top of that, you can count on 13 public holidays per year. 

 

The hand-in period for your redundancy notice varies between four and nine weeks, depending on how long you have been professionally active. Make sure to double-check with your employer before you start.



 

Work permit 


 

As a foreigner, you need a work permit (attestation de travail) to be legally employed in Morocco. You can obtain it from Anapec (Agence nationale de promotion de l’emploi et des competences). It translates to “National Agency for the Promotion of Employment and Skills”. 

 

In order to hire a foreigner, a Moroccan employer first needs to prove to Anapec that the position couldn’t be filled by a Moroccan citizen. The agency also needs to review the working contract in order to confirm that it complies with the local laws and regulations. Your employer should take care of that for you.

 

You need to submit the following documents with your work permit application*:

 

  • Two stamped copies of the filled-out application form

  • A copy of your employment contract, reviewed and approved by Anapec

  • A copy of your passport

  • Two passport photos

  • A copy of all relevant diplomas and qualifications

 

*This is the general set, but you might be required to bring in other documents, depending on where you are from and where you are employed, so always double-check with your employer and the local Ministère de l’emploi.



 

Residence permit

 

If you intend to stay in Morocco for more than 3 months, or longer than your visa allows you (if you need one), you have to obtain a residence permit. There are two kinds of residence permits in Morocco;

 

  • Registration card

  • Residence card (carte de séjour)


 

Registration card

 

Issued when you are going to live in Morocco for a specific reason, such as studies or work, without the intention to stay permanently. There are 5 different types of registration cards, depending on the purpose of your stay. You can find them all in the official guide by the Moroccan government (page 6).

 

If you obtain your registration card for work purposes, it needs to include your professional activity.

 

After the initial application, the registration card is valid for 1 year. After that, it can be renewed annually, or for 5 or 10 years. It will be revoked if you leave the country for more than 6 months, and you will need to apply again when you come back.

 

Once the registration card has expired, you must leave Morocco or get a renewal or a residence card for a permanent stay. If your application is refused or withdrawn, you have to leave the country within 15 days from the issue date of the notification. 

 

You can obtain a list of all the documents necessary to apply for the registration card at the office étranger at the head police station in your city. Mind that you can’t go to any police station - it must be the central office. 

 

Important: as a foreigner, you need to legalise all the necessary documents at the local Foreigners Office (Muqata’a).



 

Residence card (carte de séjour)

 

Apply for the residence card if you wish to stay in Morocco indefinitely. In order to obtain the permanent residence card, you need to "prove a non-interrupted residence of at least 4 years on Moroccan territory that complies with the existing laws and regulations ".

 

You have the right to obtain the residence card in 7 cases outlined in the government’s brochure (page 7).

 

The residence card is issued for 10 years and can be renewed unlimited times after that. It gives you the right to move freely around Morocco and leave the country, but not for more than 2 years at a time. In this case, your residence card loses its validity and you will be required to apply for it again when you return. 

 

The entire process of obtaining the residence card, along with the necessary documents, is exhaustively explained here.


 

Visas


 

Citizens of the EU don’t need a visa to enter and live in Morocco. You can use this tool to verify whether you need a visa to go to Marocco.

 

Those who require a visa and wish to relocate to Morocco for work need to obtain the long-term visa. Just like a tourist visa, it is also valid for 3 months, but it gives you the right to apply for the residence or registration card. You can’t apply for a residence or registration card with a tourist visa.

 

The validity of the long-term visa gives you enough time to apply for the residence or registration card. Mind that you will need to do it as soon as you arrive to receive it before your visa expires, as the process can take several weeks up to a few months. 



 

Social Security


 

The national security system in Morocco is managed by the Caisse Nationale de Securité Sociale (CNSS). 

 

Expats are seen as an equal part of the labour force, so your employer should enrol you in the CNSS. The contributions are mandatory and split between employers and employees.

 

The employer pays 6.4% of the monthly compensation and the employee 4.48%, with the maximum amount being 6000 MAD (Moroccan Dirham). These amounts are automatically deducted from the paycheck. They cover benefits such as maternity and sick leave, retirement pension, and disability allowance.

 

Morocco has bilateral social security agreements in place with several European countries, including Denmark, Germany, Spain, Portugal, Sweden, and Romania.



  1. Getting around Casablanca, Morocco


 

Public transport


 

Public transport in Morocco is efficient and very affordable for those accustomed to European rates. 


 

Trams

 

The Casa Tramway line is the most effective and reliable mode of public transport in Casablanca. It is definitely the locals’ favourite, with the most developed line network and high efficiency. 

 

It consists of more than 100 stations spread across 72.5 km of network. There are 4 lines, with 2 having opened very recently, in 2024. 

 

The ticket for a single journey costs 6 MAD (€0.60). More information about pricing and schedules can be found on the Casa Tramway official website.


 

Buses

 

Unlike in many European cities, buses are not the most popular choice in Casablanca. The bus network is more chaotic and busier than the preferred trams. They used to be the cheapest alternative to get to places not covered by the T1 and T2 lines, but since the opening of T3 and T4 in 2024, they are steadily losing passengers. 


 

Trains

 

Trains are the best way to explore Morocco and travel between major cities. They are operated by the ONCF company and people consider them inexpensive, reliable, and comfortable.

 

Living in Casablanca, you may want to experience the famous scenic route from Casablanca to Marrakesh. It allows you to admire the breathtaking views of the Atlas Mountains and the Atlantic Coast. 

 

Find out more at the official ONCF website.


 

Bikes

 

Although bikes are not as loved by Casablancan citizens as they are by the locals in many European cities, there are some rentals available. Allo Vello is one of the most popular choices.

 

Be mindful that the infrastructure for bicycles isn’t as developed in Casablanca as, for example, Amsterdam or Copenhagen. Many Europeans take some time to get used to the driving customs in Morocco and initially don’t feel comfortable commuting everywhere by bike.


 

Taxis

 

There are two types of taxis in Morocco.

 

The first corresponds to the taxis Europeans are familiar with: the red petite taxis pick up single passengers from designated stations or off the side of the main roads. Unlike buses and trams, they operate 24 hours a day, so they are the best (and usually the only) option for coming back from a night out.

 

Be aware that you will pay 50% more for all rides after 8 PM. However, the rates still remain quite low compared to European and American standards.

 

Make sure to agree on a price beforehand, as the fares aren’t set the way they would be in a taxi app like Lyft or Uber. The drivers are known to overcharge foreigners and tourists, so some negotiation before the ride is necessary.

 

The second type of taxis is more akin to minibuses. They offer group rides for up to 6 passengers and split the price between them, making them the cheaper alternative.


 

Driving

 

Many Europeans need some time to get used to the local driving customs. It is often described as chaotic or hectic, especially during rush hours. But, to be honest, the same can be said about every big city, regardless of its location.

 

Renting a car - or buying one, if you intend to stay for longer - is a good option if you’d like to explore the surrounding areas of Casablanca and Morocco in general. While trains connect the major cities and are quite comfortable, some people prefer the freedom of driving on their own, or wish to visit places not covered by the train line. 

 

You need to be at least 21 to rent a car in Morocco, and will be required to pay a surcharge if you are under 25. Some well-known international renting companies such as Hertz, Avis, or Europecar are available at Casablanca’s airport.

 


Casablanca airport

 

Mohammed V International Airport is located about a 40-minute drive South of Casablanca city centre. The best way to get to and from the airport is by train. The journey takes 45 minutes and costs about 40 MAD (€3.85).

 

The train station is located under Terminal 1. The Casa Voyageurs station is the best for transfer to other major cities in Morocco, while Casa Port is the stop closest to the centre of Casablanca.

 

The trains run roughly every hour between 6 AM and 10 PM. If you’re pressed for time or your flight leaves outside of the train operating hours, a taxi is your best option. Taxi rides to the airport are significantly more expensive than the train, especially after 8 PM, when the surcharge applies. 

 

However, you can find a mini-bus taxi and split the cost of the ride with 5 other passengers. The time it takes to get to and from the airport by taxi is very similar to the journey time by train. 



 

  1. Housing in Casablanca, Morocco


 

Flat hunt


 

Housing in Morocco is cheaper than in most of Europe and America. However, it is worth it to keep in mind that the standards may also be different than what Europeans and Americans are used to. 

 

The price and standards often depend on the location of the property. Most Moroccan cities are divided between the old Medina, with narrow, winding streets and traditional architecture, and the more modern part, constructed during the period of the French protectorate.

 

Expats often prefer the second location, due to the French influence on the architecture. The houses there are also more modern and closer to the standards newcomers are used to.

 

Most buildings in Morocco don’t have heating - and beware, despite what it seems, there is snow in parts of Morocco. However, heaters are available for reasonable prices, and your landlord may provide one if you ask. 

 

Make sure to check if utilities are included in the monthly rent before signing a tenancy agreement. 

 

The Finance Law regulates the prices per square metre. The Moroccan government also simplified the property purchasing process in order to encourage foreigners to invest in real estate. 


 

Helpful websites for finding accommodation in Casablanca:

 


 

 

Where to live? Districts in Casablanca


 

Casablanca, just like all of Morocco, is very diverse. Each neighbourhood is different, so choose your location wisely, based on what you’re looking for.

 

You can select from the old parts of the city, dating back to the 18th century and reflecting the traditional Arabic architecture, to modern districts influenced by the French. There are green areas, urban areas, quiet zones, and places that buzz with life 24/7. 


 

Bouskoura - located a bit further away from the city centre, Bouskura is Casablanca’s greenest neighbourhood. It takes its name from the Bouskoura Forest - a great place to reconnect with nature and relax after a long day at work. With the growing number of restaurants, shops, and cafés opening there, some say Bouskoura is becoming its own little town within Casablanca.


 

Habous - also called the New Medina. This district was built to accommodate the influx of immigrants relocating to Casablanca in the first half of the 20th century. Designed by French architects, it blends traditional Moroccan architecture with European influence, creating accommodation adjusted to the needs of modern life.

With time, Habous has become somewhat of a touristic destination due to its unique architecture, shaded arcades, and colourful market stands. Therefore, although vibrant and interesting, it isn’t the best choice for expats looking for peace and quiet. 


 

Triangle d’or - The Golden Triangle deserves the title of the most chic district in Casablanca. It owes its name to its location. Situated between 3 grand boulevards: Zerktouni, Al Masirra, and Abdellatif Benkaddour, the district’s shape resembles a triangle.

Triangle d’or is home to many high-fashion stories, chic boutiques, and perfumeries. Living there, you can walk in and out of the numerous beauty, fashion, and design concept stores and dine in luxury restaurants and charming cafés. 


 

Ain Diab - this Northern part of the city is known for its proximity to the sea. It is a haven for surfers, beach enthusiasts, and sea lovers. Numerous infrastructural developments have been carried out in the area, creating lots of green spaces for outdoor activities and picnics. 


 

Centre Ville - full of historical landmarks Casablanca is known for, it is also full of tourists. Therefore, it is a good choice for those who are in the city for a limited time and want to inhale as much of its essence as possible, but could be tiring long-term. 



 

  1. Living like a local

 

People


 

Morocco is a very diverse country. Its local population can be divided into two basic groups: the Arabs and the Berbers. The latter split out into 4 further groups - and many more sub-groups, each with its own culture, traditions, and language.

 

The diversity is visible in the everyday life of the Moroccans - they have coexisted for centuries, and welcome new cultures and expats. At the same time, they have a strong sense of identity and appreciation for their own traditions and history. The country’s reputation is important to many of its citizens, and they constantly work on improving it. 

 

Moroccans are also known for their hospitality. This quality is deeply ingrained in the culture, and passed down from generation to generation. 

 

Like some other Arabic countries, Morocco cultivates a relationship-based culture. The people are easy-going and it’s not unlikely for them to approach you. 

 

Still, expats need to keep in mind that Morocco is a Muslim country, and the religious values are deeply ingrained in its culture and people. They are sometimes very different from what people coming from other parts of the world are accustomed to, so it is crucial to do your research beforehand and decide if you accept this way of living and will be tolerant of it as a guest in a foreign country.


 

 

The LGBTQ+ Community in Casablanca

 

Romantic relationships between same-sex partners are illegal in Morocco for both men and women. According to article 489 of Morocco’s Penal Code, relations between individuals of the same gender are punished by a fine and up to 3 years in prison. 

 

Interestingly, there is a difference in how same-sex relationships are portrayed in French-speaking and Arabic-speaking media in Morocco. Arabic-speaking media tend to be more conservative in their approach to this topic.

 

While most social criticism revolves around the illegality of same-gender partnerships, it is worth noting that sexual relations outside of marriage are also criminalised for heterosexual couples in Morocco. 

 

There is a growing number of activist groups forming in Morocco, aiming to change the law and support those targeted by it. However, the Moroccan law restricting the freedom of association poses big challenges to the official formation of NGOs. 


 

Language

 

There are two official languages in Morocco: Arabic and Standard Moroccan Berber. Although French is not an official language, it is also widely spoken in the country. The same can be said about Spanish - especially in the North of Morocco, in the part bordering with Spain across the Alboran Sea. 

 

Additionally, the Berber community is divided into many different sub-groups, each speaking its own unique dialect. 

 

Arabic is a difficult language to master, but here are a few basic phrases that will make your everyday life in Morocco easier:

 

  • Good morning - صباح الخير (sabah alkhayr)

  • Good afternoon / Good evening - مساء الخير (masa' alkhayr)

  • Hello - مرحبًا (mrhban)

  • Goodbye - مع السلامة (mae alsalama)

  • Goodnight - طاب مساؤك (tab masawuk)

  • How are you? - كيف حالك (kayf halika)

  • Thank you, I’m okay. HBU? - شكرا لك، أنا بخير. ماذا عنك (shukran lika, 'ana bikhayri. madha eank)

  • What’s your name - ما اسمك (ma asmuk)

  • My name is… - اسمي هو (asmi hu)

  • Nice to meet you! - سعيد بلقائك (saeid biliqayik)

  • Cheers! - هتافات (hutafat)

  • Have a nice day - طاب يومك (tab yawmak)

  • Enjoy your meal! - أتمنى لك وجبة شهية ('atamanaa lak wajbatan shahiatan)

  • Yes - نعم (naeam)

  • No - لا (la)

  • Maybe - ربما (rubama)

  • I don’t know - لا أعرف (la 'aerif)

  • I don’t understand - لا أفهم (la 'afham)

  • Please - لو سمحت (law samaht)

  • Excuse me - اعذرني (aiedhirni)

  • Thank you - شكرًا لك (shkran lak)

  • You’re welcome - على الرحب والسعة (ealaa alrahb walsaea)

  • Do you speak English? - هل تتكلم بالإنجليزية (hal tatakalam bial'iinjilizia)

  • How much is it? - كم سعره (kam sieruh)

  • Where is the toilet? - أين المرحاض ('ayn almirhad)

  • Help! - يساعد (yusaeid)

 

Be aware that Arabic language is written from right to left. We listed the words in the way customary for Latin languages to make it simpler, but don’t forget the words from Arabic are written differently. 


 

Save the Date

 

National Holidays in Morocco

 

There are 13 national holidays in Morocco. 

 

  • January 1 - New Year's Day

  • January 11 - Independence Manifesto

  • May 1 - Labour Day

  • July 30 - Throne Day 

  • August 14 - Allegiance of Oued Eddahab

  • August 20 - Anniversary of the Revolution of the King and the People

  • August 21 - Youth Day/King’s Birthday

  • November 6 - Green March Day

  • November 18 - Independence Day

 

 

Festivities where the dates vary:

 

  • Al-Hijra (Islamic New Year)

  • Eid al-Adha (Feast of Sacrifice)

  • Eid al-Fitr (End of Ramadan)

  • Mawlid an-Nabi (The Prophet’s Birthday) 

  • Ashura (Celebration of the day Allah parted the Red Sea for Moses for Sunni Muslims, commemoration of the death of Husayn for Shia Muslims)

 

The most important holiday in the Islamic world is undoubtedly Ramadan. Its date varies, depending on the lunar calendar, but it always occurs on the ninth month of the Islamic calendar. Ramadan is a festivity of fasting, reflection, prayer, and celebrating community.

 

During Ramadan, Muslims must not eat or drink during the day. It is important to take into consideration for foreigners, as restaurants, bars, and cafes remain closed during this time. They reopen after sunset, when various performances, processions, and carnivals take place until sunrise during the Eid al-Saghir period. 

 

Many businesses also close between 11 AM and 3 PM, as Muslims celebrating Ramadan need to perform their prayers 5 times a day. 

 

Eid al-Fitr is the last day of Ramadan, celebrated by the community visiting one another, giving gifts, and paying their respects to their relatives’ graves. 

 

 

Events in Morocco

 

There aren’t many annual events hosted in Casablanca, but thanks to the efficient train network, hopping over to another city in Morocco is not an issue! Here are some of the best things happening in Morocco every year:

 

 

Tan-Tan Moussem (May/June) - the largest gathering of nomadic tribes in Northern Africa. More than thirty tribes from across the Saharan desert come together to perform, dance, share stories, and bond in an event so culturally important, that it has been included on the Representative List of the Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity by UNESCO. 

 

World Folklore Days (October) - a compilation of musical and dancing performances of folk artists from all over the world. It takes place in Marrakesh, and the year 2024 will see the 6th edition of the festival.

 

Marrakesh International Film Festival (November - December) - one of the biggest events in the world of Moroccan cinema. It gathers filmmakers and cinephiles from all over the world, celebrating the 7th art.

 

 

  1. Fun things to do around the city

 

 

Moroccan cuisine

 

The food in Morocco is full of flavours and spices. It is also incredibly appealing to the eye - presentation is just as important as taste in the local cuisine. Moroccan meals are a feast for both the palate and the eye, and everyone will find something they’ll love.

 

 

Soups, sides, and main dishes

 

 

Tagine - in fact, the name is that of the traditional clay pot used to make meals, not the actual dish. It can serve to make a variety of different dishes, although the most popular one is probably a slow-cooked stew of lamb or chicken with vegetables, spices, and dried fruit. 

 

Couscous - a type of fine grain, often served steamed as a side dish to accompany meals such as tagine. 

 

Harira - a thick soup made of tomatoes, lentils, and chickpeas, with a hearty addition of lamb meat. Garnished with a splash of lemon juice, and sometimes sour cream to soften the spiciness.

 

Bissara - soup made of dried beans or peas. It originates from Egypt, but is popular in Morocco as well. 

 

Zaalouk - some call it a dip, others a salad, depending on its consistency. It’s an eggplant-based side dish garnished with fresh tomatoes, olive oil, garlic, and a mix of spices.

 

Bastilla - a pie on the verge of sweet and savoury, filled with meat and roasted almonds, sprinkled with powdered sugar and cinnamon. It originates from Andalucia and is one of the most popular dishes in the Moroccan cuisine these days.

 

Fish chermoula - chermoula itself is the name of a marinade popular in several countries in North Africa. It has many variations, and although it is primarily used to flavour fish and seafood, it can also accompany meat and vegetables.

 

R’fissa - a dish originating in none other than Casablanca! A hearty mix of stewed chicken, onions, and lentils bathed in aromatic spices. It is served on a heap of shredded Moroccan pastries, and tradition dictates that new mothers are served r’fissa after giving birth to regain their strength due to how filling it is. 

 

Briouat - small pastries with different fillings - sweet or savoury. It is wrapped in paper-thin pastry called warqa. They are especially popular during Ramadan. 

 

Krachel - sweet bread rolls spiced with aniseed and orange blossom water. They can be eaten as a side to dishes or as a snack with a variety of spreads or on their own. 

 

Sardines - as a coastal country, seafood constitutes a crucial element of the Moroccan diet. Sardines make up the majority of the fish catch in Morocco, so they are served in all kinds of ways: fried, stuffed, as snacks, or as a part of a meal.

 

Tagine dish

 

Desserts

 

Ghoriba bahla - a crunchy cookie made of almonds and sesame seeds. 

 

Sellou - a thick paste made of roasted flour, fried almonds, sesame seeds, honey, butter, and spices. It is formed into a pyramid and decorated with almonds, then cut into portions. 

 

Chebakia - deep-fried sesame cookies. They come in a characteristic, floral shape and are especially popular during Ramadan. 

 

Mint tea - this green tea-based drink is a staple in Morocco. Its brewing process is a true ritual, and it accompanies Moroccans in their social life. 

 

 

Casablanca’s best food places

 

Restaurants

 

Saveurs du palais - this restaurant serves traditional Moroccan food and specialises in tagine dishes. It serves a wide variety of them with all kinds of meat, so if you’re looking to try the best tagine in Casablanca, this is the place to go.

 

Dar dada - this premium restaurant offers a fusion take on Moroccan food. Its interior will take your breath away, with the arches, colourful tiles, and a perfect balance between tradition and modernism. 

 

Rick’s Café - although the film Casablanca wasn’t actually filmed in Casablanca, Rick’s Café really featured in it. You can enjoy tasty Moroccan food and live music, feeling like Ingrid Bergman and Humphrey Bogart.

 

Chez Michel et Hafida - located at the central market, this low-profile restaurant serves the best seafood in town. Stop by for a break in your shopping spree and taste a crucial element of the Moroccan diet - seafood-based dishes.

 

Niya - Moroccan food isn’t the most vegan-friendly, so if you’re looking for a plant-based alternative, then Niya is the place to go. You can choose from a variety of breakfasts, lunches, dinners, and desserts surrounded by bookshelves. The establishment also organises workshops, meet-ups, and book clubs, offering a vibrant social life.

 

Cafés 

 

% Arabica - located in Racine, a hustling and bustling part of Casablanca, % Arabica is a true Mecca for coffee lovers. They serve high-quality blends that will satisfy even the most demanding palates. 

 

Roosevelt Café - the place to go to try the staple Moroccan mint tea or have your daily dose of caffeine. Make sure to order a pastry or crepe to accompany your drink, as Roosevelt is known for its delicious desserts.

 

Espressolab - a great location to get some work done while enjoying a good cup of high-quality coffee. It’s popular among remote workers, who often visit with a laptop and let productivity flow in a friendly atmosphere. 

 

Bondi Coffee Kitchen - its modern interior invites locals and internationals alike. Hop in for breakfast, a cup of coffee, lunch, or dinner, and grab a seat outdoors to enjoy the hum of the city and sun. 

 

Nightlife

 

Bars

 

La Bodega de Casablanca - if you need a break from typically Moroccan food, head over to La Bodega for Spanish wine and tapas. Almost every night, you can catch a live music show of different genres. 

 

Sky 28 - the rooftop bar’s name comes from its location on top of the Kenzi Tower Hotel, one of the best hotels in Casablanca. Come for delicious cocktails, DJ or live music, and breathtaking views of Casablanca through the floor-to-ceiling windows. 

 

Armstrong - the bar is famous for its live music performances and concerts. It’s not a club, per se, but it sports a dance floor, where you can go crazy all night long with a tasty drink in hand. 

 

CasArt Bar & Lounge - an upscale establishment with a cabaret-like atmosphere. It hosts events such as art expositions and live music performances. It is part of Hotel Sofitel Casablanca Tour Blanche.

 

 

Clubs

 

La Maison B - this trendy club and lounge bar is known for its international crowds. You can dance the night away on the spacy dance floor or breezy terrace, sipping a reasonably-priced drink.

 

Black House Casablanca - nestled in Hyatt Regency Hotel, the club welcomes its guests with energetic music and exotic cocktails. With the party starting at midnight and lasting until the sun comes up, Black House is the perfect place to waltz into after a pub crawl or late-night dinner. 

 

 

Places to Go / Things to Do

 

Parks

 

Arab League Park - the original design of Casablanca did not allow for many green spaces - the neighbourhoods were meant to provide homes for as many people as possible, with houses squeezed tightly together. 

Built in 1916 under the French influence, the Arab League Park is a green lung of the city. The 30 acres provide plenty of space to stroll, organise picnics, relax, jog, skate, or practise other sports, such as tennis.

The park was renovated between 2016 and 2019, preserving plant species and providing more facilities for children and adults alike. Nowadays, the Arab League Park is one of the most recognisable spaces in all of Casablanca.

 

Bouskoura forest - very different from the Arab League Park. The Bouskoura forest spreads out over 3000 hectares outside of the city, constituting the perfect respite for nature lovers, joggers, and those who wish to enjoy a peaceful stroll. You pass it on your way to the airport, spotting the recognisable eucalyptus trees.

 

Anfa park - the park covers 18 hectares and takes its name from the district in which it is located - Casa Anfa. It features plenty of promenades and paths, benches, playgrounds, and fountains. A canal winds its way through the park, adding to its charming atmosphere. 

 

Museums

 

Dar Al Ala - founded in 2011 by the Association of Fans of Andalusian Music, the museum aims to preserve the Arabic-Andalousian traditions. Situated in the Habous district, the building itself boasts elements of original Arabic architecture, which have been preserved in the museum. 

The museum has a library, an audio-library, and an exhibition showcasing instruments and manuscripts. It regularly hosts music-oriented events such as get-togethers or music shows. 

 

Villa des arts - the place is a work of art, both on the outside and on the inside. The beautiful 1930s villa is home to a museum of contemporary Moroccan art, with more than 800 works on display. The museum organises conferences, exhibitions, workshops, and shows on various topics. 

 

Sacred Heart Cathedral - this catholic sanctuary in a Muslim country is a symbol of religious tolerance in Morocco. Building it took a quarter of a century, as it takes up nearly an entire hectare. It was meant to rival similar structures from all over the world and serve as a place of worship for all Christians visiting Morocco. Formerly a cathedral, it now serves as a museum. 

 

Museum of Moroccan Judaism - the only Jewish museum in the Arabic world, and the first museum in Casablanca, opened in 1997. Hosted in a former orphanage for Jewish children, it exhibits the everyday and sacred objects of the Jewish community in Morocco, collected from synagogues from all across the country. 

 

Abderrahman Slaoui Foundation Museum - this colourful museum located in a stunning villa from the 1940s exhibits paintings, jewelry, ornate boxes, and other objects collected by Abderrahman Slaoui throughout his life. As the trip isn’t long, many guests enjoy a mint tea on the charming terrace.

 

 

Other spots

 

Hassan II Mosque - one of the only two mosques in Morocco, that non-Muslim visitors can enter. It features the tallest minaret in the world (210 metres tall) and is decorated with striking blue, green, and yellow tiles. It is also located on the seafront, providing beautiful views and nestling flawlessly into the charming scenery.

 

La Corniche - situated right next to the Hassan II Mosque, La Corniche is a picturesque promenade along the coast. You can walk, jog, skate, or cycle admiring the seaside views and enjoying the breeze. 

 

Mohammed V Square - the administrative centre of Casablanca. Designed by a French architect, it is a blend of modernism and traditional architecture. It is worth visiting for the towering palm trees, trickling fountain, and characteristic wooden balconies and decorated façades of the surrounding buildings. 

 

Royal Palace - one of the grandest landmarks in Casablanca. Built in the 1920s in the New Medina, it used to serve as one of the residencies for the king of Morocco. Tourists are not allowed inside, but the structure is admire-worthy from the outside.

 

Clock Tower - a symbol of Casablanca. It is located in the United Nations square and serves as an entrance to the Southern part of the medina. Interestingly, the tower you can see isn’t the original one from 1911. It was destroyed in 1948 due to its poor state and wasn’t rebuilt until 45 years later. 

 

Art Deco quarter - the Art Deco movement transformed a part of Casablanca during the colonial period. The art deco featured are mixed with traditional Arabic ones, creating a blend of styles and a feast for the eyes. 

 

The Medina (Old City) - a network of narrow, labyrinth-like streets, colourful buildings, mosques, squares, and bustling markets. It is one of the oldest parts of the city, rebuilt in 1755 after an enormous earthquake that entirely destroyed it. 

 

Beaches - situated along the coast, Casablanca sports several beaches with lots of sun for fans of sunbathing and big waves for surfers. You can start your day with a dip in the sea, and finish it with watching the sun disappear behind the horizon. 

 

 

Sports

 

Without a doubt, football is the number one sport in Morocco. In 1970, Morocco became the first African nation to reach the second round of the FIFA World Cup. Much to the chagrin of its citizens, the country will co-host the next FIFA World Cup championships together with Spain and Portugal in 2030. 

 

Morocco has also had some success in athletics - for example, the first Aram Muslim woman to win an Olympic gold medal was Nawal El Moutawakel from Morocco.

 

 

Shopping in Casablanca

 

The main shopping centre in Casablanca is the Morocco Mall. It is the largest and most luxurious shopping mall in all of Morocco, with 70,000 square metres of shops, and twice as much space overall. 

 

You can spend all your money in one of the 350 shops, have a meal in the food court, have fun in one of the multiple entertainment areas, or visit the on-site aquarium, amusement park, and IMAX cinema. Don’t forget to take a photo with the biggest musical fountain in the world, preferably during one of its shows featuring lights, music, and water. 

 

 

  1. Cost of Living in Casablanca, Morocco

 

Food/Grocery shopping

 

Moroccans do their basic grocery shopping in corner shops. Specific products are also commonly bought in specialist shops called hanouts - meat, bread, fruits and vegetables. 

 

The main supermarket chains in Morocco include Carrefour, Marjane, Atacadão, Aswak Assalam, and Bim, with Carrefour being the most expensive one, and Bim being the cheapest. 

 

Below, you can find estimated costs of weekly grocery shopping in Casablanca:

 

 

 

Other expenses

 

Expats from Europe and America need to get a local mobile plan, as using data or making long-distance calls will drain their funds very quickly. The main providers in Morocco are: Orange, Maroc Telecom, and INWI. 

 

Who you go with usually depends on your location rather than your preferences - specific areas are covered by a specific provider. When choosing your plan, make sure both data and calls are covered, as they don’t always include both.

 

 

Taxes

 

You have to pay Moroccan taxes if you live there for more than 183 days per year. They are based on worldwide income and divided into 6 income brackets. Depending on how much you earn, you will pay up to 38% of tax. 

 

 

Medical care

 

Morocco suffers from a deficiency of medical professionals, as many of them migrate abroad. The standards of Moroccan medical care are different from the Western ones - access to it is much easier in big cities than in rural areas.

 

It is possible to find an English-speaking doctor in Casablanca. Many expats choose private hospitals to increase their chances of accessing medical care in English and receive treatment closer to the standards they are used to. 

 

Obtaining standard, over-the-counter medication is hassle-free, as pharmacies are easy to find in all Moroccan cities. There are also 24/7 ones, and every pharmacy should provide information about which locations are open during the night and on holidays.

 

Health insurance

 

Health insurance in the private sector is managed by the National Social Security Fund (Caisse Nationale de Securité Sociale). It covers employees, as well as their spouses and children under 18 if they are doing an apprenticeship, or under 21 if they are studying.

 

When it comes to public healthcare, several attempts to cover more of the Moroccan population have been made. In 2005, the government introduced the Obligatory Health Insurance scheme (Assurance Maladie Obligatoire - AMO). 

 

As it only covered about 30% of the population, it was followed by the Medical Assistance Scheme (Régime d’Assistance Médicale - RAMED), which covered a further 30% of Moroccans. Those plans don’t cover self-employed people.

 

As the public healthcare system is quite overcrowded, many employers and self-employed expats choose to go with private providers. 

 

 

Films and books set in Casablanca

 

Did you know that a lot of films are actually made in Morocco? Its sandy landscape features in many productions - doubling as Iran, Iraq, or Lebanon. There are many studios in the country, making it a great location for filming. 

 

In fact, you have probably seen shots of Morocco many times in some of your favourite films without even realising it. If not, here’s a list of films and books set in Morocco to help you discover more about its culture.

 

Not all of them are directly connected to Casablanca, but they all have ties to Morocco.

 

 

Films

 

  • Casablanca (1942)

 

We could not fail to open this section with this absolute classic. It tells the story of a love affair between a nightclub owner and the wife of an opposition movement activist from Czechia. Although the plot is set in Casablanca, the film wasn’t actually filmed there and many people coming to visit the city are quite disappointed failing to spot the iconic locations they know from the film.

 

 

  • Spy Game (2001)

 

Robert Redford and Brad Pitt star as CIA agents in this action-packed spy thriller. A retiring CIA agent tries to release his former subordinate from the Chinese prison, encountering a series of obstacles on the way. Although the plot doesn’t involve Morocco in any way, locations in Casablanca double as Beirut.

 

  • Babel (2006)

 

The plot is divided between 3 stories happening in Morocco, the United States/Mexico, and Japan. The main theme connecting them is problems with communication, which finds its reflection in the film’s title. Although it wasn’t filmed specifically in Casablanca, a part of the plot is set in the Moroccan desert  

 

 

  • Jock Wick: Chapter 3 - Parabellum (2019)

 

The third instalment in the iconic series of action films sees John Wick fleeing from New York to Casablanca to escape a legion of hitmen wanting to hunt him down. The scenes happening in Casablanca are actually filmed there, so even if you’re not a fan of hit-and-run films, you might want to watch it for the sights of the city featuring in the background.

 

 

Books

 

  • The Caliph’s House: A Year in Casablanca by Tahir Shah

 

The book’s plot is based on the author’s experience of moving with his family from London to Casablanca. They deal with cultural shock, get accustomed to the blend of Islamic and African cultures in Morocco, and experience encounters with djins - invisible, mystical spirits.

 

The tale is told with a healthy dose of humour and just a touch of magic that will have you turning the pages late into the night. The witty narration style lessens the impact of an otherwise heavy topic: starting a new life in a foreign country.

 

 

  • The Lioness of Morocco by Julia Drosten

 

A tale of feminism, conflict, and contrasting cultures. Young Sibylla feels stifled and trapped in 19th-century London, where her views are perceived as too revolutionary. Although all she craves is freedom and independence, she decides the only way to be granted her wish is through marriage.

 

Her husband’s dealings bring her to Marocco, where she must get accustomed to an entirely new culture. As her marriage gets progressively worse, her feelings for a charismatic Frenchman grow in strength. Eventually, she will need to make a choice: fight for her family or follow her heart.

 

 

  • The Sultan’s Wife by Jane Johnson

 

This fictional story is filled with intrigue, romance, and unpredictable twists of fate. When Alys is captured by corsairs during a sea voyage and sold into the harem, she must accept her new fate: marry the sultan, give him sons, and thus help him consolidate his growing power.

 

The court’s scribe is tasked with ensuring she flawlessly steps into the role expected of her under the threat of death - for both of them. They aren’t supposed to grow closer - especially not with the threat hanging over both of their heads - but love, just like life in court, has its own rules.

 

 

Casablanca playlist 

 

If you are already imagining living in Casablanca, inhaling the salty breeze and strolling in the sun, we're about to make the experience even more real. Listen to our playlist inspired by the city and get swept away by its unique climate!

 

 

Casablanca is so much more than just a holiday destination. With everyone relocating to Portugal and Spain, be original and move to Morocco! It will be a once-in-a-lifetime adventure that will show you a brand-new way of living. You already know everything you need to after reading this guide, so all that is left is to find a job in Casablanca and make the move!

 

Sources: 

 

 

 

Sep 2, 2024 by
Lucyna

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