MOROCCAN FESTIVALS AND EVENTS FOR 2013

MOROCCAN FESTIVALS AND EVENTS FOR 2013



There are plenty of events and festivals going on throughout the year, many of which are colourful, have deep traditional roots and are highly entertaining.

January

Marrakech International Marathon The marathon takes place in the beautiful setting of Marrakech and sees competitors from all over the world competing around some superb scenery to complete this gruelling marathon.

February

Almond Blossom Festival This beautiful spectacle takes place in Tafraoute where the trees for only a short time are in full blossom and whose colours greatly admired. The festival includes singing, dancing and other performances by the locals.

March

International Magic Festival The annual magic festival is held in Marrakech and has several performances by both international and up and coming local artists. Many of the top performers delight audiences at the Royal Theatre in Marrakech and there are plenty of magic performances on the street as well.

April

The Sand Marathon The Sand Marathon is an incredibly gruelling marathon that covers 150 miles and lasts for 11 days. The marathon takes place in Ouarzazate, usually towards the beginning of April.

Grand Prix Hassan II This popular event attracts some the very best players on the ATP World Tour and takes place at the Complexe Al Amal in Casablanca.

May

Mawazine Festival This modern festival takes place in the city of Rabat and has several artists performing concerts that range from top international performers to local artists, past headliners include Elton John and Sting. Also on offer are art exhibitions and plenty of street entertainers to keep the huge crowds entertained.

Desert Music Festival The Desert music Festival offers an outstanding selection of music genres that ranges from traditional Moroccan music to music from international musicians from around the world. The event takes place annually in Errachidia.

June

Fes Sacred Music Festival The festival offers a wide range of traditional music performed by both Moroccan musicians and those from around the world. The event takes place in the city of Fes annually during the month of June.

July

Marrakech Popular Arts Festival The festival features traditional Berber music, dancing, story tellers and entertainers and takes place in the vibrant and bustling city of Marrakech.

August

Imilchil Marriage Festival This unique event is steeped in tradition and takes place in the village of Imichil close to Marrakech. The event provides local Berbers the opportunity to meet and agree to marry, with everyone wearing traditional dress along with plenty of music, dancing and loads of atmosphere, the event is usually held around August or September.

September

Festival of Fantasia The Festival of Fantasia is a horse event that take place in Meknes usually towards the beginning of the month, and offers participants the chance to show off their horses, riding ability and timing.

October

Tissa Horse Festival The Tissa Horse Festival is held near Fes and provides the opportunity for hundreds of riders to compete against each other and show off their beautiful mounts and skills as horsemen.

November

Tan Tan Moussem This is a traditional festival gathering, of nomadic tribal members who come together in celebration of their culture and religion. The event takes place towards the end of November or beginning of December in the town of Tan Tan, to the south of Morocco.

Eid Al Adha Festival During this annual festival, the Prophet Abraham is honoured with the sacrifice of a ram, goat or cow.

December

Casablanca International Art Fair The art fair offers a huge selection of art forms such as sculptures and photography as well as workshops to participate in. The event takes place in the Exchange Office in Casablanca usually at the beginning of the month.
MOROCCAN FESTIVALS AND EVENTS FOR 2013
     
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14th January 2013: Moroccan Property News



There are plenty of events and festivals going on throughout the year, many of which are colourful, have deep traditional roots and are highly entertaining.

January

Marrakech International Marathon The marathon takes place in the beautiful setting of Marrakech and sees competitors from all over the world competing around some superb scenery to complete this gruelling marathon.

February

Almond Blossom Festival This beautiful spectacle takes place in Tafraoute where the trees for only a short time are in full blossom and whose colours greatly admired. The festival includes singing, dancing and other performances by the locals.

March

International Magic Festival The annual magic festival is held in Marrakech and has several performances by both international and up and coming local artists. Many of the top performers delight audiences at the Royal Theatre in Marrakech and there are plenty of magic performances on the street as well.

April

The Sand Marathon The Sand Marathon is an incredibly gruelling marathon that covers 150 miles and lasts for 11 days. The marathon takes place in Ouarzazate, usually towards the beginning of April.

Grand Prix Hassan II This popular event attracts some the very best players on the ATP World Tour and takes place at the Complexe Al Amal in Casablanca.

May

Mawazine Festival This modern festival takes place in the city of Rabat and has several artists performing concerts that range from top international performers to local artists, past headliners include Elton John and Sting. Also on offer are art exhibitions and plenty of street entertainers to keep the huge crowds entertained.

Desert Music Festival The Desert music Festival offers an outstanding selection of music genres that ranges from traditional Moroccan music to music from international musicians from around the world. The event takes place annually in Errachidia.

June

Fes Sacred Music Festival The festival offers a wide range of traditional music performed by both Moroccan musicians and those from around the world. The event takes place in the city of Fes annually during the month of June.

July

Marrakech Popular Arts Festival The festival features traditional Berber music, dancing, story tellers and entertainers and takes place in the vibrant and bustling city of Marrakech.

August

Imilchil Marriage Festival This unique event is steeped in tradition and takes place in the village of Imichil close to Marrakech. The event provides local Berbers the opportunity to meet and agree to marry, with everyone wearing traditional dress along with plenty of music, dancing and loads of atmosphere, the event is usually held around August or September.

September

Festival of Fantasia The Festival of Fantasia is a horse event that take place in Meknes usually towards the beginning of the month, and offers participants the chance to show off their horses, riding ability and timing.

October

Tissa Horse Festival The Tissa Horse Festival is held near Fes and provides the opportunity for hundreds of riders to compete against each other and show off their beautiful mounts and skills as horsemen.

November

Tan Tan Moussem This is a traditional festival gathering, of nomadic tribal members who come together in celebration of their culture and religion. The event takes place towards the end of November or beginning of December in the town of Tan Tan, to the south of Morocco.

Eid Al Adha Festival During this annual festival, the Prophet Abraham is honoured with the sacrifice of a ram, goat or cow.

December

Casablanca International Art Fair The art fair offers a huge selection of art forms such as sculptures and photography as well as workshops to participate in. The event takes place in the Exchange Office in Casablanca usually at the beginning of the month.

WEALTHY INVESTORS BUY LUXURY MOROCCAN PROPERTY

WEALTHY INVESTORS BUY LUXURY MOROCCAN PROPERTY

The second home industry in Morocco is expanding and attracting domestic buyers as well as wealthy property investors from around the globe, according to a new report.

Over the last decade, Morocco has benefited from strong macroeconomic policies that have contributed to its economic growth, improving social indicators and expanding middle class, says the report from Aylesford International.

It points out that according to Wealth-X there are now 35 ultra high net worth individuals in Morocco, with a total wealth of US$5 billion who are interested in property as an investment.

Political reform introduced with a new constitution in July 2011 has meant Morocco has not experienced the social unrest of the wider north African region and as such, tourism and the second home industry have continued to expand, attracting both fashionable domestic clientele as well as the international elite, and have been key to driving the country’s economy.

The report also says that there is now a substantial expat community in Morocco. Foreign residents are primarily from Francophone countries and the UK, as well as those from much further afield. They are attracted to Morocco’s moderate property transaction costs, liberal inheritance laws, and supply of exceptional, high end properties.

Recently, however, slow growth in the European Union, particularly in France and Spain which are Morocco’s key export partners, has had an impact on economic performance, and the current deficit is thought to have increased to 8.8% of GDP in 2012, according to figures from the International Monetary Fund.

To that end, Morocco’s Budget in 2013 has sought to tax both high income earners as well as companies that produce large profits. Effective as of 01 January 2013 for three years until the end of 2015, the ‘social contribution’ applies to individuals whose net, Moroccan sourced salaries are above 360,000 dirhams (£28,200), at progressive rates from 2% to 6%. The highest rate is applied to salaries in excess of 840,000 dirhams or £65,800.

The report details what taxes are payable on buying and selling property in Morocco. When buying there is an agent commission of 2.5%, at Notary fee of 1% plus VAT at 10% plus a Notarial tax of 0.5%. There is also a land registration fee of 3% to 4% plus land registry tax of 1%.

When selling a property there is no inheritance tax as such but gift tax may be levied at a flat rate of 20%. Capital Gains Tax applies to the sale of a property unless it has been the owner’s principal residence for six years. Gains are subject to the tax on real estate profits at a 20% rate. The minimum tax is 3% of the transfer price. However, gains derived from the sale of property amounting to a maximum of MAD 140,000 per year are exempt.

As far as local property taxes are concerned owners face an annul urban tax from local municipalities which are progressive from 0.025% to 0.5%. There is a tax d’habitation which is an annual property tax based on 0% to 30% of the rental value of the property. Only 25% of the assessed rental property value is subject to tax when it is a primary residence.

Properties that are attracting wealthy buyers in Morocco include luxury villas in Marrakech on private estates which can boast 18 hole golf courses, luxury boutique hotels, and spas.

DISCOVERY TRIPS FROM €290

Our discovery trips are second to none in this industry. Unlike most companies we offer a bespoke viewing experience where you will have our total focus.

This ensures that following a consultation either in person or by telephone prior to your visit, we can tailor a portfolio of property completely to your requirements.

Areas in which we sell property in Morocco - Saidia, Marrakech, Tangier, Agadir, Essaouira and Casablanca.

Equally if you are on holiday just prefer to travel under your own steam we can provide the support you need when searching for the right property in Morocco. Our whole team know the area inside out - we are the specialists. We too have bought here and know how important it is to research the area thoroughly before you make a decision. With that in mind we will give you a comprehensive tour of the local area, beaches, shops, food and culture. All of which will enable you to make an informed choice.

Our discovery trips to Morocco range from between 2 - 4 days and run throughout the week and the year. With property viewing specialists and offices in Morocco, Spain and in the UK we can accommodate any viewing requirements you may have. Any cost relating to travel, food or accommodation when you are with us will be covered.

During our trips you will be under no-pressure to buy what so ever. We firmly believe that the area sells itself. We are a professional family company with property interests in the area and a friendly, impartial, all encompassing service. We do not work on commission.

All we ask for is a confirmation of available funds, a general knowledge of the area and definite requirements.

If you would like to book a trip with us to Morocco, please complete the following form and then sit back and relax while we take care of everything.

AL HOUARA APTS

Reference: TA150000
Price £128,000 • €150,000
Golf apartments from €151,488
Beach apartments from €268,800
Wide selection of luxury beach and golf property
Fantastic beachfront location
10 minutes from Tangiers international airport
By Qatari Diar – a major UAE developer
Comprehensive luxury facilities
3 x luxury hotels - Kempinski confirmed
Sports academy
Completion in August 2011
Interested? Contact us for further details

AL HOUARA RESORT: THE GOOD LIFE

Conveniently located within 20 minutes drive from Tangiers and its international airport, the Al Houara Resort offers a selection of truly luxurious accommodation designed to meet the expectations of discerning visitors.

Enjoy the Moroccan spa, equestrian centre or popular beach club and for those who would like a personal challenge, why not try out the 18-hole world-class golf course designed by Graham Marsh and Vijay Singh.

Oceanfront living has never been so luxurious and elegant. Select from a wide range of beach apartments or villas. Each offers a special view of a shimmering sandy beach. Golf residences are also available for those who prefer the view of a lush green.

THE KASBAH: A UNIQUE FIVE STAR RESORT

Al Houara’s 5 Star Kempinski hotel is the crowning glory of the resort, offering breathtaking comfort and refined elegance. The exotic Kasbah, is the perfect place to shop or just relax at one of the many restaurants, cafés and enjoy the good life. Improve muscle tone and let go of tensions in the spa, health club and swimming pools and, when night falls, move to an entirely different rhythm in the chic Al Houara nightclub.

THE DIAR CLUB: OWNERSHIP MADE EASY

The Diar Club gives you the option of remarkable and unexpected financial opportunities. With its affiliation to the Registry Collection, the Diar Club allows owners to exchange vacation time with owners of similar luxury resort properties in exotic locations around the world. Moreover, the Diar Club offers a rental service to generate income for owners whenever their properties are not being used. To top it off, its members automatically benefit from unlimited personalised concierge services to meet their every whim.

QATARI DIAR: TURNING VISION INTO VALUE

The State of Qatar has a vision of a tolerant, modern society, based on the latest knowledge and built of contemporary infrastructures, developed to the most exacting standards of excellence. It also has the investment resources to be truly innovative and forward thinking. Qatari Diar, a master real-estate developer, has been entrusted with realising this vision in a way that promotes sustainable growth and, through projects such as Al Houara, uplifts and nurtures entire communities. Qatari Diar accepts only the highest standards in design and construction. The Al Houara complex is bound to become a distinctive landmark, in elegant harmony with the unique historical surroundings of Morocco. Moreover, it will create long-term financial benefits for the people of the region. We invite you to be part of the amazing Al Houara cultural project.

OWNERSHIP OPTIONS:

The developer is offering two ownership models. The first one private - full freehold to use as you wish.

The 2nd an investment ownership option - Personal Use and Rental Exchange - This innovative ownership model is offered in conjunction with Wyndham Worldwide's Registry Collection, the world's largest rental company with a database of 9 million clients. Properties in this scheme are offered fully furnished and managed with an allocation for personal use and if you fancy a change you can exchange weeks in Al Houara for weeks in other Wyndham Resorts throughout the world.

FINANCE AND PAYMENT TERMS:

OPTION 1: 5,000€ to reserve, 20% down after 21 days (paid into an Escrow account), 30% at foundation (after one year), 20% at roof, 30% after two years on completion

OPTION 2: 5,000€ to reserve, 20% down after 21 days (paid into an Escrow account), 10% after one year. After this financing available from Moroccan Bank



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Morocco is any traveler's dream destination with its long beaches


The best time to visit this country and take Morocco tours would be during the season of autumn, when Morocco once again becomes a major travelling destination. During this time, accommodation prices rise, making it slightly difficult for the budget traveler to find his or her way around. However, everyone is in high spirits after Ramadan here which makes up for the high prices with joyful festivities and celebrations. The beaches are perfect at this time and the water feels just wonderful and the desert also benefits from gentle breezes, usual to the autumn season. Also, this is the right time to explore the winding streets of Fès Medina and discover its hidden treasures. The city also celebrates its founder in a huge moussem or religious festival in September at this time and the Imilchil's Berber Marriage festival is a sight to witness.



Morocco is any traveler's dream destination with its long beaches, fortified fishing ports, lush oases, abundant flora and fauna and the High Atlas Mountains. Also, Morocco's coasts and countryside offer plenty to lure and interest avid travelers. Moreover the cities of Fez, Meknes and Marrakesh with their marvelous early Islamic architecture, rich cuisines, grand culture and traditional fiestas, also add to the overall beauty. And invite travelers from all over the world to take a plunge in Morocco's grandeur with Morocco tours. Read our article to find out more about Morocco tours, the best time to visit and its hidden art and culture delights waiting to be explored.

When it comes to a delightful tourist destination, Morocco is one of the hot favorites amongst travelers from various parts of the world. Just a few hours away from Europe's major cities by flight, it is regularly frequented by travel loving Europeans and adventure lovers. Receiving nine million foreign visitors every year, it is second only to Egypt as a popular North African holiday destination. Also, the vivid Morocco Tours available here, offer a new and colorful way to explore the country. Morocco is well-served by both budget and luxury airlines, with the main entry points to the country being Marrakesh, Casablanca, Fès and Tangier. Tangier is also an important ferry point for visitors from Spain, which also makes this country accessible through the sea route to travelers.

Morocco is good for visiting throughout the year, however, avoiding the hot summer months of July and August is a good idea in order to escape the excessive heat. August is clearly the hottest time of the year with the city of Marrakesh being particularly scorching which makes it very exhausting to travel and visit places of interest during the day. However, if the season of summer is the only time available for travelling, then one can head for the cooling sea breezes in the cities of Essaouira and Asilah as their proximity to the sea keeps their climate more or less ideal throughout the year. In Asilah there is a three-week long art festival in July, overlapping with Marrakesh's Festival of Popular Arts, another not to be missed extravaganza while taking Morocco tours.

Le Maroc est la destination de rêve de tout voyageur avec ses longues plages,

Le Maroc est la destination de rêve de tout voyageur avec ses longues plages, ports de pêche, des oasis fortifiées luxuriants, la flore et la faune abondantes et les montagnes du Haut Atlas. En outre, les côtes et la campagne du Maroc offrent beaucoup pour attirer les voyageurs avides et d'intérêt. En outre, les villes de Fès, Meknès et Marrakech avec leur merveilleuse architecture début islamique, cuisines riches, grand culture et fêtes traditionnelles, également ajouter à la beauté globale. Et inviter les voyageurs de partout dans le monde à prendre un plongeon dans la grandeur du Maroc avec des visites Maroc. Lisez notre article pour en savoir plus sur les visites Maroc, le meilleur moment pour visiter et son art caché et la culture délices attendent d'être explorées.

Quand il se agit d'une destination touristique agréable, le Maroc est l'un des grands favoris parmi les voyageurs en provenance de différentes parties du monde. A quelques heures des grandes villes d'Europe par le vol, il est régulièrement fréquenté par voyage d'amour Européens et les amateurs d'aventure. Recevoir neuf millions de visiteurs étrangers chaque année, ce est la deuxième à l'Egypte en tant que destination d'Afrique du Nord de vacances populaire. En outre, les Tours Maroc vives disponibles ici, offrent une façon nouvelle et coloré pour explorer le pays. Le Maroc est bien desservi par deux lignes aériennes de budget et de luxe, avec les points principaux dans le pays étant Marrakech, Casablanca, Fès et Tanger entrée. Tanger est également un point de traversier important pour les visiteurs en provenance d'Espagne, ce qui rend également ce pays accessible par la route aux voyageurs de la mer.

Le Maroc est bien situé pour visiter toute l'année, cependant, éviter les chauds mois d'été de Juillet et Août est une bonne idée pour échapper à la chaleur excessive. Août est clairement le moment le plus chaud de l'année avec la ville de Marrakech étant particulièrement brûlant qui le rend très épuisant de voyager et de visiter des lieux d'intérêt pendant la journée. Toutefois, si la saison d'été est le seul temps disponible pour voyager, alors on peut se diriger vers les brises de mer de refroidissement dans les villes d'Essaouira et de Asilah que leur proximité de la mer maintient leur climat plus ou moins idéale toute l'année. Dans Asilah il ya un festival à long art en trois semaines en Juillet, qui se chevauchent avec le Festival des Arts Populaires de Marrakech, un autre spectacle à ne pas manquer tout en prenant des visites Maroc.

Le meilleur moment pour visiter ce pays et de prendre des visites Maroc serait au cours de la saison de l'automne, lorsque le Maroc devient une fois de plus une destination de voyage. Pendant ce temps, les prix d'hébergement augmentent, ce qui en fait un peu difficile pour le voyageur de budget pour trouver son chemin autour. Cependant, tout le monde est de bonne humeur après le Ramadan ici, qui compense les prix élevés avec fêtes et célébrations joyeuses. Les plages sont idéales en ce moment et l'eau se sent tout simplement merveilleux et le désert bénéficie également de douces brises, habituelles pour la saison d'automne. Aussi, ce est le bon moment pour explorer les rues sinueuses de la médina de Fès et découvrir ses trésors cachés. La ville célèbre aussi son fondateur dans un grand moussem ou festival religieux en Septembre à cette époque et le festival berbère Mariage de la Imilchil est un spectacle à voir.