Home Morocco Rabat’s Dar Essalam market redefines urban living

Rabat’s Dar Essalam market redefines urban living

Rabat’s Dar Essalam market redefines urban living
Rabat’s Dar Essalam market redefines urban living

On June 21—the summer solstice—a brand-new lifestyle destination opened its doors in the Souissi district of Rabat: the Dar Essalam Market. Nestled within the lush grounds of the Orangeraie, this new development aims to become a go-to spot for families, food lovers, and shoppers alike, blending Moroccan tradition with a modern, sophisticated edge.

With 60 carefully chosen businesses under one roof, the site brings together a wide mix of food retailers, fashion brands, wellness centers, restaurants, and convenience services, with a cinema set to launch soon. The vision behind the project was clear: to create a vibrant hub that fits seamlessly into every part of the day—from your morning coffee to an evening out.

At the heart of the complex is the fresh market, a reimagined take on the traditional souk. Here, shoppers can browse a curated lineup of culinary artisans: fishmongers, cheesemongers, butchers, produce vendors, and sellers offering everything from olives to Moroccan donuts and aromatic spices. Whether you’re looking to stock your fridge or grab a meal on the spot, the offerings are both authentic and diverse. A collection of gourmet counters lines the space, offering everything from Japanese fare by Matsuri to elevated Moroccan dishes from Moojood.

The retail portion is just as thoughtfully assembled. Each brand is selected for its quality and commitment, whether it’s fashion, cosmetics, or high-end delicacies. Among the highlights are three fashion concepts that cater to different age groups: Sèves for adults, Madd for teens, and Lilmi for kids. Shoppers will also find renowned labels like Vanessa Bruno and Tartine et Chocolat, alongside boutiques like Intimissimi, Tiara, and the collagen-focused 48 Collagen Café.

On the gourmet side, Posology serves up a refined selection of natural teas, coffees, and chocolates, while La Maison du Chocolat shares the spotlight with homegrown brands such as Melt. Soon to join the culinary lineup are two notable names: famed pastry chef Frédéric Cassel, who will launch a bakery and tea salon, and chef Pepe Garriga, whose restaurant Aguablava promises a refined yet generous dining experience.

Entertainment will soon be elevated further with the arrival of a Pathé cinema complex featuring four high-end screening rooms. Guests can expect VIP lounges and premium service, adding another layer to the site’s upscale experience.

The Marjane Market supermarket, with its light-filled and plant-rich design, offers a gourmet selection that emphasizes both quality and traceability. Everyday services are also part of the mix, including a bank, dry cleaner, beauty salon, and optician—making the market a true one-stop destination.

Wellness is another cornerstone of the site, with a dedicated yoga and Pilates studio set to open soon. Sessions will be led by seasoned coaches, offering visitors a space to recharge and reconnect in a serene setting.

Spanning 10,000 square meters of commercial space and 7,000 square meters of gardens, the project was designed with sustainability in mind. The architecture draws inspiration from traditional covered markets but uses cutting-edge environmental technology, including solar panels. The site also boasts the replanting of 800 trees—350 of which are on-site—and prioritizes local sourcing and reclaimed materials. Thanks to these efforts, it’s the first commercial building in Africa to earn both HQE and BREEAM environmental certifications.

More than just a shopping destination, Dar Essalam Market embraces its local roots by championing Moroccan producers, artisans, and retailers. A rotating cultural program is in the works, with exhibitions, workshops, and public events that will make it a living, breathing part of the community.

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