Morocco, located in northwest Africa, is a place of fascinating contrasts where thousand-year-old traditions and modernity harmoniously coexist. Whether you're planning to study there, travel there, or simply learn more about this unique nation, here are 30 amazing facts that will give you a glimpse of the cultural, historical, and natural richness of the Cherifian Kingdom.
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1. A Country Between Two Waters
Morocco is the only African country with coastlines on both the Atlantic Ocean and the Mediterranean Sea. These two bodies of water meet near Tangier, creating an impressive natural spectacle where you can observe the demarcation between the waters of the two seas.
2. A Bridge to Europe
Only 14 kilometers separate Morocco from Europe at the Strait of Gibraltar. This geographical proximity has strongly influenced cultural and commercial exchanges between Africa and Europe throughout history.
3. The Giant of the Atlas
The highest point in Morocco is Jbel Toubkal, which rises to 4,167 meters in the Atlas Mountains. It's the highest peak in North Africa and a popular destination for hikers from around the world.
4. Ski and Surf Resorts
Contrary to popular belief, Morocco has several ski resorts, particularly in Oukaïmeden (near Marrakech) and Michlifen (in the Middle Atlas). The diversity of Moroccan landscapes is such that it's possible to ski in the snow-covered mountains in the morning and walk in the desert in the afternoon! At the other end of the country, Dakhla in the south has become one of Africa's most coveted surfing spots, attracting surf enthusiasts from around the world thanks to its consistent waves and exceptional setting between desert and ocean.
5. The Goat Tree
The argan tree is endemic to Morocco, mainly present in the southwest of the country. Argan oil, extracted from its fruits, is renowned for its cosmetic and culinary properties. Its traditional extraction is a laborious process: Berber women crack the nuts by hand to extract the kernels that will be pressed. One liter of oil requires about 30 kg of fruit and 15 hours of work!
6. The Oldest University in the World
Morocco is home to Al-Quaraouiyine University in Fez, founded in 859 by Fatima al-Fihri and recognized by UNESCO as the oldest university in the world still in operation. This institution continues to attract students from around the world, especially for Islamic studies.
7. The Moroccan Flag and Its Symbolism
The Moroccan flag features a green five-pointed star on a red background. Adopted in 1915, the red symbolizes courage and strength, while the green five-pointed star (pentagram) represents the five pillars of Islam and the link between God and the nation.
8. Nine UNESCO World Heritage Treasures
Morocco has nine sites listed as UNESCO World Heritage:
- The Medina of Fez (1981)
- The Medina of Marrakech (1985)
- The Ksar of Aït-Ben-Haddou (1987)
- The Historic City of Meknes (1996)
- The Medina of Tetouan (1997)
- The Archaeological Site of Volubilis (1997)
- The Medina of Essaouira (2001)
- The Portuguese City of Mazagan (El Jadida) (2004)
- Rabat, Modern Capital and Historic City (2012)
9. Internationally Recognized Intangible Heritage
Gnawa music, originating from sub-Saharan Africa and established in Morocco for centuries via slave routes, has been inscribed on UNESCO's Intangible Cultural Heritage list since 2019. The Gnawa Festival of Essaouira, created in 1998, attracts thousands of visitors each year who come to discover this mystical and enchanting musical tradition.
10. Couscous, Culinary Heritage
Maghrebi couscous, an emblematic dish shared by Morocco, Algeria, and Tunisia, was inscribed on UNESCO's Intangible Cultural Heritage list in 2020. In Morocco, it is traditionally served on Friday after prayer, bringing together family and friends around a communal dish.
11. The Mint Tea Ritual
Moroccans are among the world's largest tea consumers, with about 1.4 kg per person per year. Mint tea, introduced in the 18th century by British merchants, has become the emblem of Moroccan hospitality. Its preparation is a true ritual: the tea is poured from a height to create foam on the surface, a sign of well-prepared tea.
12. Tagine, the King of Moroccan Cuisine
Tagine refers to both the conical clay pot and the culinary preparation that simmers slowly in it. There are countless varieties of tagines: chicken with preserved lemon, lamb with prunes, fish, vegetables... Each region has its specialty, but all share the same slow cooking that allows the flavors to blend perfectly.
13. Morocco's Red Gold
Morocco is one of the world's largest producers of saffron, particularly in the Taliouine region. Nicknamed "red gold," Moroccan saffron is renowned for its exceptional quality. Known for its antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, it is used both in cooking and for its medicinal virtues. Harvesting is done by hand at dawn and requires about 150,000 flowers to produce one kilogram of spice!
14. Moroccan Rules of Politeness
In Morocco, certain gestures are considered impolite: eating with the left hand (reserved for personal hygiene), showing the sole of your shoes to someone, or entering a house without removing your shoes. These social codes reflect the importance placed on respect and cleanliness in Moroccan culture.
15. Medinas, Historical Hearts of Cities
Medinas are the historical and traditional neighborhoods of Moroccan cities, surrounded by ramparts and characterized by their narrow, winding streets. Each medina has its own personality: that of Fez is known for its craftsmanship, that of Marrakech for its liveliness, that of Essaouira for its maritime calm…
16. A Millennial Presence
The Amazigh (Berbers) are the indigenous inhabitants of Morocco and represent about 40% of the current population. Present for millennia in North Africa, they have developed a rich and resilient culture that has survived through the ages despite numerous invasions.
17. A Unique Language and Alphabet
The Amazigh language has its own alphabet called Tifinagh, whose origins date back to antiquity. In 2011, this language was recognized as an official language of Morocco alongside Arabic, a historic advancement for Amazigh identity.
18. A Unique Calendar
Morocco has its own Amazigh calendar that begins in 950 BC (supposed date of the accession to the throne of Pharaoh Sheshonq I, of Berber origin). According to this calendar, we are currently in the year 2975!
19. A Multilingual Country
Morocco is a linguistic crossroads where Moroccan Arabic dialect (Darija), Amazigh (Berber), French, and Spanish in the north are mainly spoken. This linguistic diversity reflects the richness of cultural influences that the country has experienced over the centuries.
20. Africa's High-Speed Train
Morocco has Africa's fastest high-speed rail line, Al Boraq, connecting Tangier to Casablanca since 2018. This train can reach 320 km/h and has significantly reduced travel time between the country's two largest economic cities.
21. Morocco's "White Treasure"
Phosphate is Morocco's main natural resource, holding about 75% of the world's reserves. This mineral wealth, exploited by the Office Chérifien des Phosphates, constitutes a major source of income for the national economy.
22. A Strategic Port
Tanger Med, inaugurated in 2007 and constantly expanded since, has become one of the largest ports in the Mediterranean and Africa. Its strategic location at the crossroads of international maritime routes makes it a major logistics hub.
23. Commitment to Renewable Energy
Morocco is actively developing renewable energy and aims to produce 52% of its electricity from clean sources by 2030. The Noor solar complex in Ouarzazate, one of the largest in the world, symbolizes this ecological ambition.
24. The "African Hollywood"
Atlas Studios in Ouarzazate, in southeastern Morocco, are nicknamed the "African Hollywood." Many international productions have been filmed there, such as "Gladiator," "Lawrence of Arabia," "Game of Thrones," and "The Mummy."
25. A Prestigious Film Festival
The Marrakech International Film Festival, created in 2001, has become one of the most prestigious film events in Africa and the Arab world. It brings together international stars each year and highlights Moroccan and African cinema.
26. The Labyrinth Medina of Fez
The medina of Fez has more than 9,000 narrow streets, forming one of the largest urban mazes in the world. Some streets are so narrow that they do not allow the passage of vehicles, and goods are still transported on donkeys.
27. The Blue Men of the Desert
Morocco has an ancestral tradition of "blue men" or Tuaregs, whose indigo-dyed clothes leave blue traces on their skin. This color, which protects them from the sun, has become a strong cultural symbol of the nomadic populations of the desert.
28. International Universities in Morocco
Morocco hosts several recognized international higher education institutions. These include Al Akhawayn University in Ifrane (American model), the International University of Rabat, École Centrale de Casablanca (partnership with France), and many branches of European universities. These institutions offer internationally recognized degrees and attract thousands of students from around the world each year.
29. Moroccan Nationality and Foreign Residency
Moroccan nationality can be granted by royal decree to foreigners who apply for it, after meeting certain conditions, including regular residency for at least 5 years. Morocco offers different types of residence permits for foreigners: visitor, student, worker, or investor, reflecting its policy of controlled openness.
30. A Pole of Attraction for International Students
Morocco welcomes more than 20,000 foreign students each year, mainly from sub-Saharan Africa, but also from Europe and Asia. This attractiveness is explained by the quality of Moroccan higher education, the moderate cost of living, and the cultural and historical ties that the country maintains with many nations.
Apply to Study in Morocco!
Are you considering studying abroad? Morocco could be the ideal destination for your academic journey! This country offers a rare combination of advantages for international students:
- Tuition fees in Morocco are significantly lower than in most Western countries, while offering internationally recognized degrees. The Moroccan university system benefits from numerous partnerships with prestigious institutions in Europe, North America, and Asia.
- Studying in Morocco means immersing yourself in a crossroads of cultures where African, Arab, Berber, and European influences meet harmoniously. This cultural richness constitutes a unique learning environment that goes well beyond the classroom.
- Thanks to its strategic position between Europe and Africa, Morocco offers excellent professional prospects, particularly in growing sectors such as renewable energy, aeronautics, automotive, and information technology that offers huge international career opportunities!
- Morocco also offers an exceptional quality of life, from the pleasant Mediterranean climate to the rich gastronomy, through modern infrastructure and affordable cost of living, Morocco offers an ideal living environment to focus on your studies while enjoying unforgettable experiences.
Ready to discover all that Morocco has to offer? Book a call with our student advisors to get personalized information on study programs, available scholarships, and administrative procedures to realize your study project in Morocco. Your academic and cultural adventure begins here! Find your dream program and apply through Global Admissions today.