The lavish new hotel marks the debut of The Ritz-Carlton brand in Morocco
The Ritz-Carlton has opened its first hotel in Morocco with the debut of The Ritz-Carlton Rabat, Dar Es Salam, a luxurious retreat set within 440 hectares of lush gardens and forest near the Royal Golf Dar Es Salam. The new property, conveniently located near Rabat’s historic centre, marks a significant expansion for the brand on the African continent.
Helen Leighton, Vice President Luxury Brands, Europe, Middle East, and Africa, Marriott International, stated: “Our guests can expect the brand’s legendary service, sumptuous interiors, and a stunning natural setting that together create a sanctuary of luxury and serenity in the heart of Rabat.”
As Morocco’s cultural capital and a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 2012, Rabat offers a mix of historical and contemporary attractions, reflecting the country’s rich Hispano-Moorish heritage.
This rich history is reflected in the hotel’s striking design, which pays tribute to Morocco’s Arab-Andalusian roots.
The grand lobby showcases high ceilings, intricate muqarnas (a classic Arab-Andalusian architectural element), intricate Moroccan gebs frescoes (delicate plasterwork that tells the stories and legends of Morocco) and a richly decorated dome featuring green, gold and red motifs.
Majestic bonsai trees add a lushness to the space, with the lobby’s centrepiece undoubtedly the grand Rococo chandelier.
“At The Ritz-Carlton Rabat, Dar Es Salam, we honor the tradition of luxury and hospitality that has defined our brand for over a century. Our palace, set in a splendid natural environment, offers a serene and opulent retreat where every detail has been carefully considered to ensure a unique experience,” said Christian Fomm, General Manager of The Ritz-Carlton Rabat, Dar Es Salam.
The Ritz-Carlton Rabat, Dar Es Salam offers 100 guest rooms and 17 suites, all featuring private terraces with views of the gardens or the pool. The accommodations combine Baroque opulence with Moroccan touches, including grand headboards, gilded frescoes and plush fabrics. The Royal Suite spans an incredible 180 square metres.
The dining offering includes the Mediterranean Brasserie, which serves regional and Mediterranean-inspired dishes, while the Lobby Lounge provides a refined afternoon tea experience with a blend of Moroccan and British elements.
At Palapa, the poolside restaurant, guests can enjoy Pan-American flavours, with the Blind Tiger speakeasy offering a 1920s-inspired atmosphere with classic cocktails and a curated selection of fine wines and spirits.
As for the decadent spa, 10 treatment rooms, two couples’ suites, saunas, hammams, and a Roman bath-inspired indoor pool with a glass roof are available to guests.
The fitness centre is open 24/7 and overlooks the gardens and the Royal Golf Dar Es Salam golf course, which boasts 45 holes spread across the estate’s oak forest.
The hotel’s outdoor spaces include beautifully landscaped Andalusian-style gardens with fountains and geometric mosaics, and the outdoor pool, surrounded by sunbeds and shaded cabanas, features eye-catching mosaic borders.
The Ritz-Carlton Rabat, Dar Es Salam is open for bookings now.