On Friday, September 13, in an atmosphere where luxury seamlessly blended with elegance, the Ritz-Carlton Rabat, Dar Es Salam celebrated its official grand opening, offering guests a dreamlike experience of grandeur and exclusivity. Nestled within 440 hectares of lush gardens and forests, this majestic palace, located just steps from the renowned Royal Golf Dar Es Salam, redefines refinement by harmoniously merging Moroccan craftsmanship with modern opulence.
The ribbon-cutting ceremony, a moment of great significance, was led by four key figures: Nadia Bouayad, General Manager of Société Hôtelière de Benguérir, Rivero Delgado, Managing Director of Luxury Europe at Marriott International, Sandeep Walia, Chief Operations Officer for the Middle East and Luxury Europe, Middle East & Africa at Marriott, and Christian Fomm, General Manager of the Ritz-Carlton Rabat, Dar Es Salam. The symbolic gesture marked the brand’s first venture into Morocco, affirming its commitment to providing unparalleled experiences across the African continent.
The evening, reminiscent of the most enchanting tales, transported guests into an ambiance rich with opulence and exclusivity. Candlelit surroundings and the heavenly melodies of a harpist and violinists set the mood as each space of the Ritz-Carlton Rabat, Dar Es Salam whispered promises of unique moments and serene escapes. The meticulously designed gardens, where fountains softly murmured and ancient trees stood tall, added to the refined atmosphere of this unforgettable night.
“The Ritz-Carlton is more than just a brand; it’s a promise to create memorable experiences,” said Sandeep Walia, COO of Marriott International. “We are especially honored to introduce this iconic luxury brand to Morocco for the first time, a country rich in culture and history. Here in Rabat, nestled in the Dar Es Salam forest, Moroccan tradition meets contemporary elegance to offer unparalleled hospitality. This launch marks a milestone, and we are confident that this first Ritz-Carlton in Morocco, driven by the excellence of our teams, will redefine luxury in the region.”
More than just a hotel, the Ritz-Carlton Rabat, Dar Es Salam is a living masterpiece, where every corner tells a story, and every detail transports guests to a realm where the past meets the present. Upon entering, guests are greeted by the splendor of its grand lobby, crowned by a magnificently decorated dome, an ode to Andalusian-Arabic architecture. The ceiling, adorned with geometric and floral motifs typical of the Almohad era, and the hand-carved Moroccan frescoes on the walls evoke legends of Morocco’s rich history.
The palace offers 100 rooms and 17 suites, each meticulously designed and boasting a private terrace with stunning views of the lush gardens and the pool. Guests can enjoy tranquility in perfect harmony with nature. The suites, true gems of refinement, blend Baroque opulence with Moroccan delicacy, creating an atmosphere of timeless elegance where sculpted headboards and luxurious marble combine flawlessly.
Located just minutes from Rabat’s historic center, the Ritz-Carlton Rabat, Dar Es Salam benefits from a prime location in a city designated as a UNESCO World Heritage site. Often described as Morocco’s hidden gem, Rabat is a blend of tradition and modernity, where historical monuments coexist with contemporary art galleries. Guests of the hotel can explore the cultural treasures of the city while enjoying the exclusive and intimate setting of this luxury establishment.
“We are deeply proud to unveil this remarkable gem, where the timeless beauty of Moroccan tradition meets the elegance and world-renowned hospitality of the Ritz-Carlton,” said Christian Fomm, General Manager of the Ritz-Carlton Rabat, Dar Es Salam. “As we open a new chapter in Rabat’s history, we do so with great respect for the cultural heritage surrounding us. Beyond the breathtaking architecture, lush gardens, and refined interiors, it is our teams who are the true heart of this place. Their dedication to creating memorable experiences, their commitment to excellence in service, and their warm Moroccan hospitality will truly define your stay with us.”
The inauguration evening concluded with an air of mystery and glamour, leaving guests with memories of an exceptional night. The Ritz-Carlton Rabat, Dar Es Salam has already established itself as a new benchmark in Moroccan luxury hospitality, a sanctuary where every moment is a celebration of exclusivity and sophistication.
With this grand opening, the Ritz-Carlton brand further strengthens its presence on the African continent, rooting itself in the luxurious heritage of Morocco’s capital, offering visitors a new way to experience the country through the lens of absolute luxury.
