Morocco - Language, Culture and Doing Business
Morocco FlagFacts and Statistics
Location: North Africa, bordering Algeria 1,559 km, Western Sahara 443 km, Spain (Ceuta)
6.3 km, Spain (Melilla) 9.6 km
Capital: Rabat
Climate: Mediterranean, becoming more extreme in the interior
Population: 32,209,101 (July 2004 est.)
Ethnic Make-up: Arab-Berber 99.1%, other 0.7%, Jewish 0.2%
Religions: Muslim 98.7%, Christian 1.1%, Jewish 0.2%
Government: constitutional monarchy
Languages in Morocco
Classical Arabic is Morocco's official language, but the country's distinctive Arabic dialect is the most widely spoken language in Morocco. In addition, about 10 million Moroccans, mostly in rural areas, speak Berber--which exists in Morocco in three different dialects (Tarifit, Tashelhit, and Tamazight)--either as a first language or bilingually with the spoken Arabic dialect. French, which remains Morocco's unofficial third language, is taught universally and still serves as Morocco's primary language of commerce and economics; it also is widely used in education and government. Many Moroccans in the northern part of the country speak Spanish. English, while still far behind French and Spanish in terms of number of speakers, is rapidly becoming the foreign language of choice among educated youth. English is taught in all public schools from the fourth year on.
Why not learn some useful Arabic or French phrases?
Moroccan Society & Culture
Islam
Islam is practised by the majority of Moroccans and governs their personal, political, economic and legal lives. Islam emanated from what is today Saudi Arabia. The Prophet Muhammad is seen as the last of God's emissaries (following in the footsteps of Jesus, Moses, Abraham, etc) to bring revelation to mankind. He was distinguished with bringing a message for the whole of mankind, rather than just to a certain peoples. As Moses brought the Torah and Jesus the Bible, Muhammad brought the LAST BOOK, the Quran. The Quran and the actions of the Prophet (the Sunnah) are used as the basis for all guidance in the religion.
Among certain obligations for Muslims are to pray five times a day - at dawn, noon, afternoon, sunset, and evening. The exact time is listed in the local newspaper each day. Friday is the Muslim holy day. Everything is closed. Many companies also close on Thursday, making the weekend Thursday and Friday.
During the holy month of Ramadan all Muslims must fast from dawn to dusk and are only permitted to work six hours per day. Fasting includes no eating, drinking, cigarette smoking, or gum chewing. Expatriates are not required to fast; however, they must not eat, drink, smoke, or chew gum in public. Each night at sunset, families and friends gather together to celebrate the breaking of the fast (iftar). The festivities often continue well into the night. In general, things happen more slowly during Ramadan. Many businesses operate on a reduced schedule. Shops may be open and closed at unusual times.
The Concept of Shame - HshumaMap of Morocco
. Moroccans' most cherished possession is their honour and dignity, which reflects not only on themselves but on all members of their extended family.
. Moroccans will go out of their way to preserve their personal honour.
. Hshuma occurs when other people know that they have behaved inappropriately.
. A Moroccan's sense of self-worth is externally focused, so the way others see them is of paramount importance.
. If someone is shamed, they may be ostracized by society, or even worse by their family.
. To avoid hshuma, many Moroccans will say or do things publicly because it makes them look good or helps them avoid embarrassment or awkwardness.
. In business it is extremely important to verify anything that has been agreed to in front of others as it may not have been a sincere agreement and the person may have no intention of following through.
Moroccan Family Values
. The family is the most significant unit of Moroccan life and plays an important role in all social relations.
. The individual is always subordinate to the family or group.
. Nepotism is viewed positively, since it indicates patronage of one's family.
. The family consists of both the nuclear and the extended family.
. The elderly are revered and respected and often exert a great influence on the rest of the family.
Etiquette & Customs in Morocco
Meeting Etiquette
. When Moroccans greet each other they take their time and converse about their families, friends, and other general topics.
. Handshakes are the customary greeting between individuals of the same sex.
. Handshakes may be somewhat weak according to western standards.
. Once a relationship has developed, it is common to kiss on both cheeks, starting with the left cheek while shaking hands, men with men and women with women.
. In any greeting that does take place between men and women, the woman must extend her hand first. If she does not, a man should bow his head in greeting.
. When entering a social function, shake hands with the person to your right and then continue around the room going from right to left.
. Say good-bye to each person individually when leaving.
Gift Giving Etiquette
. If you are invited to a Moroccan's home bring sweet pastries, nuts, figs, dates or flowers to the hostess.
. A small gift for the children is seen as a token of affection.
. Do not bring alcohol unless you know that your host drinks.
. Gifts are not opened when received.
Dining Etiquette
If you are invited to a Moroccan's house:
. You should remove your shoes.
. Dress smartly. Doing so demonstrates respect towards your hosts.
. Check to see if your spouse is included in the invitation. Conservative Moroccans may not entertain mixed-sex groups.
. Shake everyone's hand individually.
Watch your table manners!
. Food is generally served at a knee-high round table.
. The guest of honour generally sits next to the host.
. A washing basin will be brought to the table before the meal is served. Hold your hands over the basin while water is poured over them. Dry your hands on the towel provided.
. Do not begin eating until the host blesses the food or begins to eat.
. Food is served from a communal bowl.
. Eat from the section of the bowl that is in front of you. Never reach across the bowl to get something from the other side. As an honoured guest, choice cuts will be put in front of you.
. Scoop the food with a piece of bread or the thumb and first two fingers of the right hand.
. Eat and drink only with the right hand.
. Do not wipe your hands on your napkin.
. Water is often served from a communal glass. If you want your own glass, ask for a soft drink.
. The washing basin will be brought around the table again at the end of the meal.
. Expect to be urged to take more food off the communal plate. Providing an abundance of food is a sign of hospitality.
Business Etiquette and Protocol in Morocco
Relationships & CommunicationEtiquette in Morocco
. Moroccans prefer to do business with those they know and respect, therefore expect to spend time cultivating a personal relationship before business is conducted.
. Who you know is more important than what you know, so it is important to network and cultivate a number of contacts who may then assist you in working your way through the serpentine bureaucracy.
. Expect to be served mint tea whenever you meet someone, as this demonstrates hospitality.
. Moroccan business practices have been greatly influenced by the French and emphasize courtesy and a degree of formality.
. Since Moroccans judge people on appearances, dress and present yourself well.
Business Meeting Etiquette
. Appointments are necessary and should be made as far in advance as possible and confirmed a day or two before the meeting.
. It is best to avoid scheduling meetings during Ramadan since Muslims cannot eat or drink during the day.
. Never try to schedule meetings on Friday between 11:15 a.m. and 3 p.m. since most companies close for prayers.
. Try to arrive at meetings on time and be prepared to wait. Moroccan businesspeople who are accustomed to dealing with international companies often strive to arrive on time, although it is often difficult for them to do so in such a relationship driven culture.
. In general, Moroccans have an open-door policy, even during meetings. This means you may experience frequent interruptions. Others may even wander into the room and start a different discussion. You may join in, but do not try to bring the topic back to the original discussion until the new person leaves.
. French is generally the language of business, although some companies use English. Check which language your meeting will be conducted in, so you know if you should hire an interpreter.
Business Negotiations
. Companies are hierarchical. The highest ranking person makes decisions, but only after obtaining a group consensus.
. Decisions are reached after great deliberation.
. If the government is involved, discussions will take even longer since the ministers of several departments must often give approval.
. Moroccans are looking for long-term business relationships.
. Do not criticize anyone publicly. It is important that you do not cause your Moroccan business associates to lose face.
. Moroccans are non-confrontational. They may agree in meetings rather than cause you to lose face.
. Expect a fair amount of haggling. Moroccans seldom see an offer as final.
. Decisions are made slowly. Do not try to rush the process, as it would be interpreted as an insult.
. The society is extremely bureaucratic. Most decisions require several layers of approval.
. It may take several visits to accomplish simple tasks.
. Do not use high-pressure tactics as they will work against you.
. Moroccans can be deliberate and forceful negotiators.
Dress Etiquette
. Business attire is formal and conservative.
. Men should wear dark coloured conservative business suits to the initial meeting.
. Women should wear elegant business suits, dresses or pantsuits.
. Women must be careful to cover themselves appropriately. Skirts and dresses should cover the knee and sleeves should cover most of the arm.
. Avoid wearing expensive accessories.
Business Cards
. Business cards are given without formal ritual.
. Have one side of your card translated into French or Arabic.
. Present your card so the translated side faces the recipient.
Solar Energy Production Progresses in Morocco
Solar Energy Production Progresses in Morocco
In support of Morocco's ongoing efforts to develop its renewable energy resources and reduce its dependency on fossil fuels, the World Bank has approved the US$519 million phase two and phase three expansion of the Ouarzazate Solar Power Station (OSPS) which will provide up to 1.1 million Moroccans with a source of clean renewable energy by 2018. Located in the Ghessat rural council area of Souss-Massa-Drâa, around 10 km from the town of Ouarzazate, the OSPS covers an area of 2,500 hectares with phase one of the project, referred to as Noor 1 CSP (concentrated solar power), already under construction. The first phase of the project will supply 160 megawatts of energy, while phase two and three are set to provide 350 megawatts as well as the installation of solar thermal collectors and solar energy tower. It is anticipated that the plant will be operational in the second half of 2015.
Currently Morocco is the largest energy importer in the Middle East, relying on imported fossil fuels for more than 97 percent of its energy requirements. The Noor-Ouarzazate Solar Power Station will enable the Moroccan Agency for Solar Energy (MASEN) to increase both its capacity and output. With up to 3,000 hours of sunshine per year, Morocco has one of the highest rates of solar radiation in the world and has great potential for harnessing the power of the sun. The public-private venture, MASEN, will be LEADING solar power projects in the country with the aim of providing up to 18 percent of the country’s annual electricity requirements by 2020.
Concentrated solar power makes use of mirrors or lenses to capture a large area of sunlight and concentrate it onto a small area. When the concentrated light is converted to heat, it drives an engine which is connected to an electrical power generator, thereby generating electricity. Spain is currently the world leader in CSP, and Spanish consortium TSK-Acciona-Sener is collaborating on the technology of the OSPS.
In addition to funding from the World Bank - $400 million of which will come from the Bank, with US$119 million from the Clean Technology Fund administered by the Bank – the project is supported by the African Development Bank, European INVESTMENT Bank, European Commission, Kreditanstalt fuer Wiederaufba, and l'Agence Française de Développement.
In support of Morocco's ongoing efforts to develop its renewable energy resources and reduce its dependency on fossil fuels, the World Bank has approved the US$519 million phase two and phase three expansion of the Ouarzazate Solar Power Station (OSPS) which will provide up to 1.1 million Moroccans with a source of clean renewable energy by 2018. Located in the Ghessat rural council area of Souss-Massa-Drâa, around 10 km from the town of Ouarzazate, the OSPS covers an area of 2,500 hectares with phase one of the project, referred to as Noor 1 CSP (concentrated solar power), already under construction. The first phase of the project will supply 160 megawatts of energy, while phase two and three are set to provide 350 megawatts as well as the installation of solar thermal collectors and solar energy tower. It is anticipated that the plant will be operational in the second half of 2015.
Currently Morocco is the largest energy importer in the Middle East, relying on imported fossil fuels for more than 97 percent of its energy requirements. The Noor-Ouarzazate Solar Power Station will enable the Moroccan Agency for Solar Energy (MASEN) to increase both its capacity and output. With up to 3,000 hours of sunshine per year, Morocco has one of the highest rates of solar radiation in the world and has great potential for harnessing the power of the sun. The public-private venture, MASEN, will be LEADING solar power projects in the country with the aim of providing up to 18 percent of the country’s annual electricity requirements by 2020.
Concentrated solar power makes use of mirrors or lenses to capture a large area of sunlight and concentrate it onto a small area. When the concentrated light is converted to heat, it drives an engine which is connected to an electrical power generator, thereby generating electricity. Spain is currently the world leader in CSP, and Spanish consortium TSK-Acciona-Sener is collaborating on the technology of the OSPS.
In addition to funding from the World Bank - $400 million of which will come from the Bank, with US$119 million from the Clean Technology Fund administered by the Bank – the project is supported by the African Development Bank, European INVESTMENT Bank, European Commission, Kreditanstalt fuer Wiederaufba, and l'Agence Française de Développement.
History and Culture in the Museums of Marrakech
History and Culture in the Museums of Marrakech
Housed in the Dar M'Nebhi Palace in the historic center of the city, the Museum of Marrakech offers visitors a window into the history and culture of Morocco. Built in the late 1800s by Mehdi Menebhi, the palace is a superb example of classical Andalusian architecture which was restored by the Omar Benjelloun Foundation* and opened to the public as a museum in 1997. Traditional seating areas, a central courtyard with fountains, exquisite tiling, mosaics and wood carvings, as well as a traditional hammam are all features of the palace. The atrium of the museum is covered in fabric and glass with an unusual chandelier-style decoration hanging in the center, catching and reflecting the light. Exhibits at the museum include collections of traditional and contemporary Moroccan art, along with historic books, pottery and coins representing Moroccan Jewish, Arab and Berber cultures.
Located alongside the Museum of Marrakech is the city's only remaining example of Almoravid architecture – the Almoravid Koubba. Originally built in 1117, this small building was restyled in the 16th century, and again in the 19th century, before being renovated in 1952 and preserved as a historic monument. The interior is embellished with cedar wood featuring skillfully carved floral patterns and calligraphy, and contains North Africa's oldest known example of cursive Maghrebi script.
The Ben Youssef Madrasa, situated just forty meters or so from the Museum of Marrakech, was an Islamic college founded in the 14th century by Abu al-Hassan, a Sultan of the Marinid dynasty. It was renovated in the mid-16th century by the Saadian Sultan Abdallah al-Ghalib and includes a courtyard surrounded by 130 student dormitory cells. The courtyard is decorated with inscriptions and geometric patterns carved in cedar, stucco and marble. The Madrasa was closed as a learning center in 1960 and, after being renovated, it was opened to the public in 1982.
(*Born in Oujda in 1936, Omar Benjelloun was an engineer, journalist, lawyer and General Secretary of the USFP (Union Socialiste des Forces Populaires), a social-democratic political party in Morocco. He was murdered in front of his home in Casablanca in December 1975.)
Housed in the Dar M'Nebhi Palace in the historic center of the city, the Museum of Marrakech offers visitors a window into the history and culture of Morocco. Built in the late 1800s by Mehdi Menebhi, the palace is a superb example of classical Andalusian architecture which was restored by the Omar Benjelloun Foundation* and opened to the public as a museum in 1997. Traditional seating areas, a central courtyard with fountains, exquisite tiling, mosaics and wood carvings, as well as a traditional hammam are all features of the palace. The atrium of the museum is covered in fabric and glass with an unusual chandelier-style decoration hanging in the center, catching and reflecting the light. Exhibits at the museum include collections of traditional and contemporary Moroccan art, along with historic books, pottery and coins representing Moroccan Jewish, Arab and Berber cultures.
Located alongside the Museum of Marrakech is the city's only remaining example of Almoravid architecture – the Almoravid Koubba. Originally built in 1117, this small building was restyled in the 16th century, and again in the 19th century, before being renovated in 1952 and preserved as a historic monument. The interior is embellished with cedar wood featuring skillfully carved floral patterns and calligraphy, and contains North Africa's oldest known example of cursive Maghrebi script.
The Ben Youssef Madrasa, situated just forty meters or so from the Museum of Marrakech, was an Islamic college founded in the 14th century by Abu al-Hassan, a Sultan of the Marinid dynasty. It was renovated in the mid-16th century by the Saadian Sultan Abdallah al-Ghalib and includes a courtyard surrounded by 130 student dormitory cells. The courtyard is decorated with inscriptions and geometric patterns carved in cedar, stucco and marble. The Madrasa was closed as a learning center in 1960 and, after being renovated, it was opened to the public in 1982.
(*Born in Oujda in 1936, Omar Benjelloun was an engineer, journalist, lawyer and General Secretary of the USFP (Union Socialiste des Forces Populaires), a social-democratic political party in Morocco. He was murdered in front of his home in Casablanca in December 1975.)
5 Helpful Tips When Exploring Marrakech
5 Helpful Tips When Exploring Marrakech
If you’re seeking a unique and intriguing holiday destination that’s free of all subtlety and possesses an atmosphere unlike any other, the beautifully ancient Moroccan city of Marrakech could the perfect choice for you. There’s so much to witness and plenty to explore, with stunning views, glorious food and the friendliest of locals all contributing to a wonderful North African holiday experience.
Despite the fact that so many people regularly visit the majestic city of Marrakech every year, it’s important to remember that the utmost respect comes from adhering to the various traditional and cultural aspects of the city. There’s also a plethora of useful tips for you to take on board prior to travelling that will help make your experience all the more splendid.
Spend All the Dirham You Have Before Leaving- You won’t be able to exchange any of the Dirham (Moroccan currency) that you have before you head home as it is a closed currency, so you should try and organize your spending so that you use up all the money you’ve taken out at the start of the trip. If you find that you’ve got some Dirham left over, use it to purchase some of the many wonderful stall goods on show in the streets of Marrakech. There are plenty of stunningly exotic items to purchase that you can take home for decorative purposes, such as rugs and leather goods.
Catch a Cab - The medina area is quite small but almost always busy, so it helps to catch a cab to and from your chosen destinations. The streets can get quite hectic at times, so it helps to escape the blistering heat and potentially claustrophobic environment with the help of a highly efficient cab service. Cabs are much more affordable than you might think, so you don’t have to restrict yourself to walking or other types of public transport. Cabs also give you the chance to sit back and take in the unique atmosphere associated with the medina.
Appropriate Dress – There’s a beautifully traditional feel about Marrakech that is further contributed to by popular Moroccan culture. Morocco is a devoutly Muslim country, with the religion strictly observed in many parts of the city. In order to respect the cultural and religious values of Marrakech, we advise anyone visiting to adhere to certain clothing requirements. This means most men should wear t-shirts and light trousers rather than shorts and vests, while women should look to cover their shoulders and wear skirts or shorts that cover the knees. While there’s not likely to be any consequences, it’s certainly more respectful to appreciate and be sensitive to cultures other than our own.
Ignore Street Signs – It’s a funny tip to start with but in truth, there’s absolutely no point following the various street signs you’ll come across throughout the city. Even someone with the keenest sense of direction will struggle to recall where their street and stall-venturing began, so you’ll enjoy yourself a whole lot more if you simply let the hustle and bustle of the busy streets take you on a unique journey. So rather than rely on signs to get you from one place to another, get help from a tour guide or perhaps even use the knowledge of the friendly locals.
Choose Peaceful Accommodation - Marrakech is a city that always seems to be on the move, much like London or New York for instance. However, those of us from colder climates may struggle to find any relaxation in the sweltering heat commonly associated with Morocco, particularly in the summer. It’s advisable that you seek a peaceful accommodation that takes you away from the hectic streets of Marrakech so that you have the perfect place to reflect on your day and recover your strength for the following day. Try and choose accommodation that presents itself as being calm, relaxed and well away from the busy streets.
If you’re seeking a unique and intriguing holiday destination that’s free of all subtlety and possesses an atmosphere unlike any other, the beautifully ancient Moroccan city of Marrakech could the perfect choice for you. There’s so much to witness and plenty to explore, with stunning views, glorious food and the friendliest of locals all contributing to a wonderful North African holiday experience.
Despite the fact that so many people regularly visit the majestic city of Marrakech every year, it’s important to remember that the utmost respect comes from adhering to the various traditional and cultural aspects of the city. There’s also a plethora of useful tips for you to take on board prior to travelling that will help make your experience all the more splendid.
Spend All the Dirham You Have Before Leaving- You won’t be able to exchange any of the Dirham (Moroccan currency) that you have before you head home as it is a closed currency, so you should try and organize your spending so that you use up all the money you’ve taken out at the start of the trip. If you find that you’ve got some Dirham left over, use it to purchase some of the many wonderful stall goods on show in the streets of Marrakech. There are plenty of stunningly exotic items to purchase that you can take home for decorative purposes, such as rugs and leather goods.
Catch a Cab - The medina area is quite small but almost always busy, so it helps to catch a cab to and from your chosen destinations. The streets can get quite hectic at times, so it helps to escape the blistering heat and potentially claustrophobic environment with the help of a highly efficient cab service. Cabs are much more affordable than you might think, so you don’t have to restrict yourself to walking or other types of public transport. Cabs also give you the chance to sit back and take in the unique atmosphere associated with the medina.
Appropriate Dress – There’s a beautifully traditional feel about Marrakech that is further contributed to by popular Moroccan culture. Morocco is a devoutly Muslim country, with the religion strictly observed in many parts of the city. In order to respect the cultural and religious values of Marrakech, we advise anyone visiting to adhere to certain clothing requirements. This means most men should wear t-shirts and light trousers rather than shorts and vests, while women should look to cover their shoulders and wear skirts or shorts that cover the knees. While there’s not likely to be any consequences, it’s certainly more respectful to appreciate and be sensitive to cultures other than our own.
Ignore Street Signs – It’s a funny tip to start with but in truth, there’s absolutely no point following the various street signs you’ll come across throughout the city. Even someone with the keenest sense of direction will struggle to recall where their street and stall-venturing began, so you’ll enjoy yourself a whole lot more if you simply let the hustle and bustle of the busy streets take you on a unique journey. So rather than rely on signs to get you from one place to another, get help from a tour guide or perhaps even use the knowledge of the friendly locals.
Choose Peaceful Accommodation - Marrakech is a city that always seems to be on the move, much like London or New York for instance. However, those of us from colder climates may struggle to find any relaxation in the sweltering heat commonly associated with Morocco, particularly in the summer. It’s advisable that you seek a peaceful accommodation that takes you away from the hectic streets of Marrakech so that you have the perfect place to reflect on your day and recover your strength for the following day. Try and choose accommodation that presents itself as being calm, relaxed and well away from the busy streets.
Moroccan Arts and Culture
Moroccan Arts and Culture
The almost medieval-like hustle and bustle of Morocco is for most travelers a world away from their own cities and towns. The culture and people are usually so completely different from what they know that they often find themselves in situations to which they have no idea how to react. The following brief explanation of Moroccan art and culture is designed to help you get the most out of your stay in this amazing country.
Art
The art of this country is truly special. Many historical examples are on display at the local museums. More modern examples are on display at art galleries and in souks. Beware of cheap imitations though!
There are so many different ways that the people express themselves – in carpets, clothing, jewelry, ceramics, sculpture, painting, carving, and calligraphy. They even hold an international art festival once a year to showcase all their talent. If you ever have the opportunity to visit this country, you should consider buying some of the local artwork. Not only will it provide you with a little memento of your trip, but it will help out the local people who are usually quite poor.
Culture
Souks are a way of life in Morocco and you usually wont have to go far to find one. You can often get good bargains here, but remember that most Moroccans will have a lot more experience than you will when it comes to haggling the price so you will seldom find yourself able to get better than that which is offered.
You may find, if you are friendly and courteous enough, that you will soon start to make friends with the locals. If this happens and you are invited to a meal, it is good to keep in mind some of the local customs. For example, you will usually take off your shoes when entering a house. You can follow your host’s example in this regard. Also it is a good idea to take a gift of some sort with. If you are in a home in the city you might take some pastries or some sugar with you. If you are in the county it would be better to buy a live chicken for the household which is likely to not be quite so well off. A home invitation is perhaps the most authentic way to sample Moroccan dishes. Most Moroccan food is eaten with the hands. If you are invited to join someone for a meal, you should always eat with the right hand as the left is supposed to be used for the toilet.
Any plans to visit mosques will usually meet with failure as these are considered to be very holy places that only Muslims are allowed access to. Though this is allowed in other parts of the world, the closest you will likely get to the inside of a mosque in Morocco is if you visit some ruins or disused mosques such as Tin Mal and Smara. Most other monuments are on view to the public for a price and you can also observe certain celebrations such as the Imichal wedding Fair.
When taking photographs of the local people, it would be wisest to ask their permission. Taking a photograph of someone with out their permission – especially in rural areas – can cause offense. This may result in them demanding money from you – even if you only intended to take a scenic shot of something. In contrast, taking photographs of someone you have become friendly with is usually very welcome. Often people with whom you’ve become acquainted will take you to a place where they can get a photograph taken with you for themselves. You should not be unfriendly about this as it usually does not result in you paying for the picture or any further harassment.
Traditionally the men take to the streets and the women are in control of their homes. This means that you will not often find woman in cafés or restaurants. If you are a woman and you strike up a friendship, you will likely be invited to the person’s home or to a hamman (bath) for further association. On the other hand, if you are a man or a man and woman traveling together, you will likely be invited into a café for some tea or a meal.
In general, Moroccan culture can be an exiting and worldly experience. The people are friendly and the place is colorful. Hospitality is really a part of their culture so you can strike up friendships virtually anywhere if you have the right attitude. Usually this results in further association with these dynamic and interesting people and a real taste of Moroccan life.
The almost medieval-like hustle and bustle of Morocco is for most travelers a world away from their own cities and towns. The culture and people are usually so completely different from what they know that they often find themselves in situations to which they have no idea how to react. The following brief explanation of Moroccan art and culture is designed to help you get the most out of your stay in this amazing country.
Art
The art of this country is truly special. Many historical examples are on display at the local museums. More modern examples are on display at art galleries and in souks. Beware of cheap imitations though!
There are so many different ways that the people express themselves – in carpets, clothing, jewelry, ceramics, sculpture, painting, carving, and calligraphy. They even hold an international art festival once a year to showcase all their talent. If you ever have the opportunity to visit this country, you should consider buying some of the local artwork. Not only will it provide you with a little memento of your trip, but it will help out the local people who are usually quite poor.
Culture
Souks are a way of life in Morocco and you usually wont have to go far to find one. You can often get good bargains here, but remember that most Moroccans will have a lot more experience than you will when it comes to haggling the price so you will seldom find yourself able to get better than that which is offered.
You may find, if you are friendly and courteous enough, that you will soon start to make friends with the locals. If this happens and you are invited to a meal, it is good to keep in mind some of the local customs. For example, you will usually take off your shoes when entering a house. You can follow your host’s example in this regard. Also it is a good idea to take a gift of some sort with. If you are in a home in the city you might take some pastries or some sugar with you. If you are in the county it would be better to buy a live chicken for the household which is likely to not be quite so well off. A home invitation is perhaps the most authentic way to sample Moroccan dishes. Most Moroccan food is eaten with the hands. If you are invited to join someone for a meal, you should always eat with the right hand as the left is supposed to be used for the toilet.
Any plans to visit mosques will usually meet with failure as these are considered to be very holy places that only Muslims are allowed access to. Though this is allowed in other parts of the world, the closest you will likely get to the inside of a mosque in Morocco is if you visit some ruins or disused mosques such as Tin Mal and Smara. Most other monuments are on view to the public for a price and you can also observe certain celebrations such as the Imichal wedding Fair.
When taking photographs of the local people, it would be wisest to ask their permission. Taking a photograph of someone with out their permission – especially in rural areas – can cause offense. This may result in them demanding money from you – even if you only intended to take a scenic shot of something. In contrast, taking photographs of someone you have become friendly with is usually very welcome. Often people with whom you’ve become acquainted will take you to a place where they can get a photograph taken with you for themselves. You should not be unfriendly about this as it usually does not result in you paying for the picture or any further harassment.
Traditionally the men take to the streets and the women are in control of their homes. This means that you will not often find woman in cafés or restaurants. If you are a woman and you strike up a friendship, you will likely be invited to the person’s home or to a hamman (bath) for further association. On the other hand, if you are a man or a man and woman traveling together, you will likely be invited into a café for some tea or a meal.
In general, Moroccan culture can be an exiting and worldly experience. The people are friendly and the place is colorful. Hospitality is really a part of their culture so you can strike up friendships virtually anywhere if you have the right attitude. Usually this results in further association with these dynamic and interesting people and a real taste of Moroccan life.
Morocco Mall
Morocco Mall a été conçu par Davide Padoa, qui est l'architecte en chef et le président-directeur général de Design International, une firme architecturale spécialisée dans la conception de designs pour des magasins et centres internationaux. Design International qui a élaboré cette œuvre en collaboration avec Oger International a gagné en 2009 le prix de la « Meilleure architecture commerciale » pour le Morocco Mall aux International Property Awards11.
Morocco Mall
Un panel de 350 boutiques abritant 600 grandes marques7 ainsi qu'un hypermarché d'une superficie d'un hectare sont référencés dans ce complexe d'une surface de 250 000 m²2.
D'ores et déjà, ce plus grand centre commercial d'Afrique comprend une panoplie de grandes enseignes internationales. Parmi elles, toutes les marques du Groupe Aksal ainsi que celles du LEADER du marché Nesk Investment sont présentes : Massimo Dutti, Zara, [[H&M]], Mango, Promod, Okaïdi, Aldo, OYSHO, Stradivarius, Sinéquanone et sans oublier les grandes marques de luxe : Louis Vuitton, Fendi, Gucci, [[Miu Miu]], Prada, [[Philipp Plein]], Ralph Lauren, Galeries Lafayette, Christian Dior, Uterqüe, Analog, Gravis…
À cela s'ajoute une offre en loisirs et restauration diversifiée : SPA, patinoire, une fontaine musicale de WET Design8 (4e plus grande au monde), un aquarium panoramique (3e plus grand au monde), un Adventureland, une aire de restauration avec 45 restaurants ainsi que des activités proposées pour la première fois au Maroc : le Dolphin Show9, un cinéma IMAX10 en 3D ainsi que Morocco Souk, qui réinterprète les souks traditionnels de Fès et de Marrakech.
Le Morocco Mall est le premier centre commercial du genre à regrouper autant d'offres dans un seul et même site sur le continent africain. Le concept projette déjà d'être étendu à d'autres villes phares du royaume chérifien.
D'ores et déjà, ce plus grand centre commercial d'Afrique comprend une panoplie de grandes enseignes internationales. Parmi elles, toutes les marques du Groupe Aksal ainsi que celles du LEADER du marché Nesk Investment sont présentes : Massimo Dutti, Zara, [[H&M]], Mango, Promod, Okaïdi, Aldo, OYSHO, Stradivarius, Sinéquanone et sans oublier les grandes marques de luxe : Louis Vuitton, Fendi, Gucci, [[Miu Miu]], Prada, [[Philipp Plein]], Ralph Lauren, Galeries Lafayette, Christian Dior, Uterqüe, Analog, Gravis…
À cela s'ajoute une offre en loisirs et restauration diversifiée : SPA, patinoire, une fontaine musicale de WET Design8 (4e plus grande au monde), un aquarium panoramique (3e plus grand au monde), un Adventureland, une aire de restauration avec 45 restaurants ainsi que des activités proposées pour la première fois au Maroc : le Dolphin Show9, un cinéma IMAX10 en 3D ainsi que Morocco Souk, qui réinterprète les souks traditionnels de Fès et de Marrakech.
Le Morocco Mall est le premier centre commercial du genre à regrouper autant d'offres dans un seul et même site sur le continent africain. Le concept projette déjà d'être étendu à d'autres villes phares du royaume chérifien.
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