With an aim to strengthen its footprint in North Africa, global hospitality company Ascott is expanding its presence in the region by forming new partnerships and initiating openings.

In a press statement, Ascott says that it has established a strong pipeline of upcoming properties in Morocco’s key economic and tourism hubs. It adds that it has recently opened a 61-unit apartment hotel Citadines Almaz in Morocco’s key city Casablanca.

Ascott says that it caters to both short and long-stay guests, offering a seamless blend of comfort and convenience. Located close to Mohammed V International Airport, it provides easy access to major landmarks, including the Hassan II Mosque, Old Medina, and the Corniche. The statement adds that equipped with state-of-the-art amenities, Citadines Almaz aims to provide a ‘live, work, and play experience to travellers.

Ascott has also announced the signing of the opening of a 130-unit property Citadines Bab Tangier. Positioned near Tangier International Airport, the Freezone, and the industrial hub, this apartment hotel aims to cater to both business and leisure travellers.

As per the press statement, owing to Tangier’s rapid economic growth due to its strategic location along the Strait of Gibraltar and its thriving manufacturing sector, it is a key market for Ascott. The hotel is slated to open in 2027.

Vincent Miccolis

“The opening of Citadines Almaz Casablanca and the signing of Citadines Bab Tangier mark key milestones in our ambitious growth strategy as we continue to provide exceptional guest experiences across this dynamic region,” says Vincent Miccolis, Managing Director, Middle East, Africa and Türkiye, Ascott. Further building on its strategic expansion, Ascott has also listed several other openings in Morocco.

It includes the openings of Citadines Connect Belvedere Casablanca, a 60-unit business hotel near Casablanca’s central business district, historic Medina, and the bustling Prince Moulay Abdullah neighbourhood. Additionally, aiming to deliver an authentic Red City experience, Ascott will also open a 90-room lifestyle hotel at the Unlimited Collection at Marrakech in 2026.

According to a press statement, Ascott witnessed a 30 pc increase from 2023, with six properties totalling over 600 rooms across North Africa. With its expanding profile, Ascott is well-positioned to support the region’s economic and tourism growth, by providing a diverse range of lodging solutions that cater to the evolving needs of travellers and property owners.

It further adds that with 40 properties and over 5,800 units in operation and under development across the Middle East, Africa, and Türkiye, Ascott continues to reinforce its presence as a global leader in the hospitality sector.

“We are excited to deepen our presence in North Africa and specifically Morocco, a country that is witnessing remarkable growth and holds immense potential. We are seeing an increasing need for serviced apartments and lifestyle hotels that aligns seamlessly with Ascott’s expertise in flexible long- and short stay accommodation solutions,” adds Miccolis.