Marrakech’s Iconic Jemâa El Fna Square Revives as Tourism Slowly Returns

Even if the preventive measures have been reinforced due to the surge in cases of contamination, economic, cultural and tourist life has gradually resumed on the Jemâa El Fna square. The authorities are keen to promote a gradual recovery of the economy heavily impacted by the repercussions of the health crisis.

But the authorities insist on vigilance and strict compliance with the barrier measures to fight against Covid-19, especially at a time when Morocco is facing a third wave of contamination. And this square is known for its large crowds. The beating heart of Marrakech, it has become a must-see destination for foreign and national tourists visiting the ochre city, who can admire the true popular traditions with storytellers, musical groups, acrobatic games and others.

The Jemâa El Fna Square has been part of UNESCO’s Intangible Cultural Heritage since 2008. Thus, this gradual return to normal is likely to boost the new tourism dynamic in the ochre city, especially with the project to revitalize the old medina, the creation of tourist and spiritual circuits, as well as the realization within the square of a National Museum dedicated to heritage.

In a statement to MAP, Abdelhak Belkhadir, president of the Association of Merchants of the New Souk, and member of the associative fabric within Jemâa El Fna, is happy with the resumption of activities within this emblematic site, following measures to promote domestic tourism and facilitate the return of Moroccans living abroad. He thanks the king for his initiatives aimed at revitalizing economic activities among commercial operators, service providers and craftsmen.

For his part, Mohamed Ait Abdellah, one of the many restaurateurs on the square, said that the return of a little life to the Jemâa El Fna Square is good news. He was one of those who were losing hope in the resumption of activities. He hopes to see things improve further for all these craftsmen, these small trades that participate with all their weight in the animation of the square.

Tourists are delighted with this gradual resumption but hope to see the "Halqa" animators return as soon as possible, given their visible imprint within the Square, in terms of promoting its heritage and cultural vocation.