From Marrakech to Ben Guerir: Exploring Morocco's cities of history and innovation (Photos) #rwanda #RwOT

I arrived in Morocco in early December 2025. Located in north-western Africa and often associated with desert landscapes, the country surprised me with its cold weather. Contrary to my long-held assumption that Arab countries are uniformly hot like much of Africa, Morocco experiences biting cold during certain months, largely due to its diverse climatic conditions.

Another immediate impression was the level of security. Upon arrival at the airport, security checks were exceptionally thorough, comparable to those conducted before boarding a flight, despite having just landed.

Travellers from most European countries do not require visas to enter Morocco. Rwandan citizens, however, are required to obtain visas, although the process is relatively fast and efficient.

From my observations, Morocco is a country whose civilisation predates colonial influence by centuries. This is evident in its architecture, historic homes and everyday social practices. Rather than imitating European models, Moroccans display a strong attachment to their own culture, which remains visible across many aspects of daily life.

Travelling between the four cities by road offered a revealing glimpse into the country's landscapes. Traditional homesteads of farmers and pastoralists sit alongside vast, modern farmlands cultivated with machinery. The colour of the soil changes from one region to another, often reddish, sometimes taking on a khaki-like hue, reflecting Morocco's varied geography.

The cities are linked by wide, well-maintained motorways known locally as autoroutes. These modern roads were among the most striking features of the journey and play a crucial role in facilitating trade and economic activity in a region historically shaped by commerce and long-distance travel.

Morocco generally follows a culture that discourages alcohol consumption, although alcohol is available in designated outlets, most of which close early. Visitors who wish to purchase it must plan ahead or rely on hotels, where it is more readily available. For non-drinkers, the country offers an abundance of well-prepared tea and coffee, both of which are central to Moroccan hospitality.

Marrakech: The southern gateway

The first city I arrived in, flying from Cannes in southern France, was Marrakech, often described as the southern gateway to Morocco.

Founded around the 11th century by Berber dynasties, Marrakech quickly emerged as a political, commercial and cultural centre in the Maghreb. It earned the nickname 'the Red City' due to the distinctive colour of its walls and buildings.

Over the centuries, Marrakech served as the capital of several dynasties and as a key junction for caravan routes linking sub-Saharan Africa to the Mediterranean basin. Its historic Medina, meaning 'the City', remains a vibrant hub of markets, craftsmanship and religious heritage, bearing strong testimony to the city's enduring cultural significance.

Casablanca: Morocco's economic engine

Casablanca, whose name traces back to the ancient port of Anfa, has a history shaped by conflict, reconstruction and transformation. Influenced by Portuguese and later French rule, the city evolved steadily over the centuries. By the 20th century, it had become Morocco's principal economic and industrial centre.

Its Atlantic coastline and modern urban districts underline its role as a commercial gateway connecting Morocco to global markets. Today, Casablanca stands as the backbone of the national economy, driven by its port, industrial sector, cultural industries and manufacturing base.

Rabat: The political capital

Rabat is home to the royal palace of King Mohammed VI and the country's key state institutions. It serves as Morocco's administrative and political capital and also hosts the Embassy of Rwanda, which represents Rwanda's interests in Morocco as well as in Mauritania and Tunisia.

Historically, Rabat developed from a military fortress along the Atlantic coast and experienced major growth during the Almohad dynasty in the 12th century, remnants of which still stand today. In the 20th century, it became the centre of modern Moroccan governance.

Today, Rabat combines historical heritage, government institutions and recreational spaces. Among the cities visited, it stood out for its greenery and calm atmosphere. In 2012, the city was inscribed on UNESCO's World Heritage List in recognition of its outstanding historical value.

Ben Guerir: A city of knowledge and innovation

I also visited Ben Guerir, a relatively young city that represents Morocco's investment in education, research and industrial development. Unlike Marrakech, Casablanca and Rabat, whose identities are shaped by centuries of history, Ben Guerir is a product of modern planning.

Located in the El-Rhamna region, the city expanded rapidly in the 20th century due to phosphate mining activities led by the Office Chérifien des Phosphates (OCP), followed by large-scale development projects.

Since the early 2000s, Ben Guerir has emerged as a centre of higher learning with the establishment of Mohammed VI Polytechnic University (UM6P). Founded in 2013 on the initiative of OCP and supported by international partnerships, the university focuses on applied research in agronomy, engineering, energy and advanced technology, closely aligned with national and regional industrial needs.

The presence of UM6P, along with its postgraduate programmes and research laboratories, has elevated Ben Guerir's profile as a hub for innovation, sustainable development and economic transformation.

Together, Marrakech, Casablanca, Rabat and Ben Guerir form a complementary portrait of Morocco. Marrakech reflects royal heritage and craftsmanship; Casablanca embodies economic power; Rabat represents governance and institutional history; while Ben Guerir illustrates the country's forward-looking investment in education and industry.

Collectively, these cities reveal a nation of remarkable depth and diversity, one where ancient traditions and modern aspirations coexist and reinforce one another.

The beauty of the city of Marrakech in photos.

This road leads to Casablanca.

The terrain is very different from Rwanda, with much of the land being desert.

Although Morocco is in North Africa, its winters can be surprisingly cold.

It is a country of vast landscapes, with well-maintained roads that make traveling by car smooth and hassle-free.

A variety of economic activities thrive across the country.

Moroccan architecture is characteristic of that seen across Arab countries.

As soon as you arrive, the genuine essence of Moroccan culture is evident.

Marrakech is a city where architecture tells the story of Morocco's history and development.

As you travel through Casablanca, the landscape changes from one area to another.

The country has an advanced system for transporting people and goods.

Morocco is a kingdom, and King Mohammed VI paid a state visit to Rwanda in 2016.

Cleanliness is visible throughout the city, with considerable effort invested to ensure it.

Moroccan cities are notably developed, with infrastructure like street lighting well maintained.

Morocco has a population of over 37 million, predominantly Muslim.

Morocco was ruled under French and Spanish protectorates from 1912 until it regained independence in 1956, ending foreign control and restoring full sovereignty.