Published on and written by Cyril Jarnias
Morocco, a multifaceted country, offers an exceptional playground for sports enthusiasts. Between its majestic mountains, its fine sandy beaches, and its modern infrastructure, the Cherifian Kingdom has become a top destination for expatriates seeking a wide variety of physical activities. Let’s discover together the most popular sports in Morocco, the best places to practice them, and the budget to plan for pursuing your sporting passion under the Moroccan sun.
From Soccer to Surfing: The Sports That Get Morocco’s Heart Racing
Morocco is a true sporting nation, where tradition and modernity blend to offer a highly diverse range of activities. Here’s an overview of the most popular sports in the kingdom:
Soccer, the Undisputed King
Unsurprisingly, soccer holds the top spot in the hearts of Moroccans. A true national passion, this sport brings together millions of fans across the country. The national team’s recent achievements at the 2022 World Cup have only strengthened this enthusiasm.
Track and Field, a Tradition of Excellence
Morocco has built a solid reputation in track and field, thanks in large part to legendary champions like Hicham El Guerrouj. Running, in particular, enjoys great popularity among both Moroccans and expatriates.
Water Sports, Between Ocean and Mediterranean
With thousands of miles of coastline, Morocco is a paradise for water sports enthusiasts. Surfing, kitesurfing, and windsurfing attract many devotees to the beaches of Essaouira, Dakhla, and Taghazout.
Tennis, on the Rise
Tennis is experiencing significant growth in Morocco, particularly thanks to the organization of international tournaments like the Grand Prix Hassan II.
Mountain Sports
The Atlas Mountains offer an ideal playground for hiking, climbing, and even skiing in winter. These activities are gaining popularity among locals and expatriates seeking adventure.
Modern Facilities for Every Sporting Taste
Morocco has invested heavily in its sports infrastructure in recent years, offering numerous opportunities to practice your favorite sport:
State-of-the-Art Soccer Stadiums
The country boasts several modern stadiums, including the Mohammed V Sports Complex in Casablanca and the Grand Stadium of Marrakech. These venues regularly host high-level matches and are also open to amateurs.
Gyms for Every Budget
Morocco’s major cities are full of gyms, ranging from high-end clubs to more affordable options. You’ll also find numerous outdoor fitness areas in urban parks.
Renowned Surf Spots
The Moroccan coastline is dotted with famous surf spots, such as Anchor Point beach in Taghazout or Dakhla Bay. Numerous schools offer lessons and equipment rentals for both beginners and experienced surfers.
Accessible Tennis Courts
Most major cities have tennis clubs open to the public. Some hotels also offer courts for their guests.
Marked Hiking Trails
Morocco has developed a network of hiking trails in the Atlas, allowing enthusiasts to safely discover the country’s spectacular landscapes.
Sports Budget in Morocco: Attractive Rates for Expatriates
Practicing your favorite sport in Morocco is generally more affordable than in Europe, making it an attractive destination for athletic expatriates. Here’s an overview of the costs to expect:
Gym Membership
The average monthly gym membership cost in Morocco is around 220 dirhams (about 20 euros), which is 32% cheaper than in France. Prices can vary depending on the city and the club’s standard.
Tennis Court Rental
Renting a tennis court for one hour costs an average of 222 dirhams (about 21 euros), which is slightly more expensive than in France (+31%). However, club membership packages can prove to be more advantageous.
Sports Equipment
Buying sports equipment is generally less expensive than in Europe. For example, a pair of sports shoes costs an average of 790 dirhams (about 75 euros), which is 17% less than in France.
Surf Lessons
Surf lesson rates vary depending on the region and the school, but expect to pay on average between 200 and 400 dirhams (20 to 40 euros) for a two-hour session, equipment included.
Guided Hiking
A day of guided hiking in the Atlas can cost between 300 and 600 dirhams (30 to 60 euros) per person, depending on the difficulty of the trail and the group size.
Good to Know:
Many sports clubs and associations offer preferential rates for expatriates. Don’t hesitate to reach out to the local expat community to take advantage of the best deals.
Morocco therefore offers an ideal setting for athletic expatriates, combining a diversity of activities, modern facilities, and attractive prices. Whether you’re a soccer fan, a surfing addict, or a hiking enthusiast, you’ll undoubtedly find your sporting bliss under the Moroccan sun.
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Cyril Jarnias is an independent expert in international wealth management with over 20 years of experience. As an expatriate himself, he is dedicated to helping individuals and business leaders build, protect, and pass on their wealth with complete peace of mind.
On his website, cyriljarnias.com, he shares his expertise on international real estate, offshore company formation, and expatriation.
Thanks to his expertise, he offers sound advice to optimize his clients' wealth management. Cyril Jarnias is also recognized for his appearances in many prestigious media outlets such as BFM Business, les Français de l’étranger, Le Figaro, Les Echos, and Mieux vivre votre argent, where he shares his knowledge and know-how in wealth management.
