Essaouira, Morocco 🇲🇦
#450
31.511828, -9.76209
Nomad Score:
63%
Essentials
| 🏙️ City | Essaouira is a coastal city located on the Atlantic coast of Morocco, known for its historic medina and vibrant arts scene. |
| 👥 Population | Approximately 77,000 residents. |
| 💻 Internet Speed | Average internet speed is around 20 Mbps, though coworking spaces may offer higher speeds. |
| 💸 Currency & Banking | 1 MAD ≈ 0.10 USD, local currency is Moroccan Dirham (MAD), credit cards accepted in most establishments. |
| 🚰 Tap Water | Not drinkable; bottled water is recommended. |
| 🔌 Power | 220V, 50Hz, 🔌 Type C/E sockets. |
| 📶 SIM Card | Local providers include Maroc Telecom, Orange, and Inwi; packages start at around 50 MAD for data. |
| 💳 Banking for Expats | Banks like BMCE and Banque Populaire are prevalent; also accepts Revolut and N26. |
| 🛌 Accommodation | Options range from riads in the medina to modern apartments; Airbnb is widely used here. |
| 💳 Cashless Friendly | Yes, cards are accepted in most cafes and restaurants, but carry cash for markets. |
| 🏠 Short Term Rentals | Airbnb and various local rental agencies are available. |
| 🛏️ Budget Accommodation | Hostel options include Essaouira Hostel and Equity Point Essaouira. |
Working and Networking
| 🏢 Best Coworking Space | The Hive is a popular coworking space known for its vibrant community and reliable internet. |
| ☕ Best Cafe for Work | L'Atelier is a recommended spot with free Wi-Fi and a cozy atmosphere. |
| 💼 Networking Events | Monthly meetups for digital nomads and locals are held at various locations; check local Facebook groups. |
| 🥂 Social Events for Expats | The Essaouira Expats Facebook group hosts regular social gatherings. |
Transportation
| 🚕 Best Taxi/Ride App | Taxi service is available, but no specific app; agree on fares before the ride. |
| 🚲 Bike/Scooter Rental | Bike rentals available from local shops around the medina; prices start around 50 MAD per day. |
| 🏖️ Best Beach Nearby | Essaouira Beach, located just a short walk from the medina. |
| ✈️ Top Regional Airline | Royal Air Maroc offers flights to and from Casablanca. |
| ✈️ Top International Airline | Air France and Ryanair are key carriers operating in the region. |
| 🛣️ Highway Access | Essaouira is accessible via the N1 highway, linking to Marrakesh and Agadir. |
| 🚉 Main Train/Transit Hub | There is no train station; bus services connect Essaouira to Marrakesh and Agadir. |
| 🚍 Public Transport Passes | Public transport is limited to buses and taxis; no pass system currently available. |
| ✈️ Regional Travel | Buses run frequently to Marrakesh (approximately 3 hours). |
Health and Wellness
| 🏥 Best Hospital | Centre Hospitalier Provincial Essaouira provides basic health services. |
| 🧘 Yoga & Wellness Centers | Yoga Essaouira offers classes and wellness retreats in scenic locations. |
| 🏋️ Gyms & Fitness Centers | Local gyms include Espace de Fitness Essaouira. |
| 🧺 Laundry Services | Laverie Essaouira offers laundry services in the medina. |
Food and Drink
| 📱 Best Food Delivery App | Glovo and Jumia Food operate in Essaouira for local food deliveries. |
| 🍽️ Best Local Dish to Try | Try the fresh grilled seafood, a staple at local restaurant stalls. |
| 🍱 Vegan/Vegetarian Options | Restaurant Le Jardin serves an excellent vegetarian menu. |
| 🍫 Best Dessert Spots | Pâtisserie La Renaissance offers traditional Moroccan pastries. |
| 🛒 Affordable Shopping Spots | Souks in the medina are great for local produce and goods. |
| 🛒 E-commerce/Online Store | Global platforms like Amazon deliver, while Jumia caters locally. |
| 🛒 Grocery Delivery | Local grocery apps are limited but can be arranged via some shops. |
| 🍸 Bar/Nightlife Area | The medina has several bars and rooftop terraces, especially around Moulay Hassan Square. |
| 🍻 Local Brewery | Local beers like Casablanca and Flag are widely available in the region. |
| 🍷 Wine Bars | Wine is available at many restaurants, with local Moroccan choices like |
| 🍲 Street Food Stalls | You can find delicious street food around the medina, such as tagine and kebabs. |
| 🍕 Popular International Cuisine | Cafés like Café Taros serve Western-style meals. |
Culture and Attractions
| 🎟️ Must-See Landmarks | The historic medina is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, offering winding alleys and ancient fortifications. |
| 🏛️ Museums & Art Venues | The Essaouira Museum showcases local history and culture. |
| 🏰 Historical Sites | Visit the Skala de la Ville for stunning ocean views and fortress walls. |
| 🕍 Religious Sites | The Moulay Hassan Mosque is notable, though not open to non-Muslims. |
| 🎉 Annual Events | The Gnaoua World Music Festival held in June attracts international visitors. |
| 🎨 Cultural Districts | The medina itself acts as a cultural hub with artisans and galleries. |
| 🎭 Theater Venues | Theatre Royal Essaouira features local performances. |
| 🛍️ Local Markets | Souk neighborhoods offer a lively atmosphere to shop and experience local life. |
| 🎼 Music Scene | Live music is often played in cafes and during cultural festivals. |
| 🎨 Street Art | Local artists frequently display their work in the medina and on the city walls. |
| 🧑🍳 Cooking Classes | La Maison de la Cuisine offers cooking classes on Moroccan dishes. |
| 👩🎨 Art Galleries | Gallery 22 exhibits contemporary Moroccan art. |
| 🕰️ Historic Buildings | The city walls and Essaouira Citadel are significant historical landmarks. |
| 🏴 Local Heritage | Essaouira is known for its traditional handicrafts, particularly thuya woodwork. |
Nature and Outdoor Activities
| 🌅 Nearby Nature Escapes | Paradise Valley, about 30 km away, is stunning for hiking and nature walks. |
| 🏞️ National Parks Nearby | Tamri national park is accessible for birdwatching and hiking. |
| 🚲 Cycling/Walking Paths | The coastal path along the beach is great for walking and cycling. |
| 🌄 Scenic Viewpoints | The ramparts offer breathtaking views of the Atlantic Ocean. |
| 🦉 Birdwatching Locations | The nearby lagoons are ideal for bird enthusiasts, especially migratory birds. |
| 🔥 Bonfire-Friendly Spots | Certain parts of Essaouira Beach allow bonfires; check local regulations. |
Other Services and Amenities
| 📦 Parcel Delivery Service | Jumia provides efficient parcel delivery services for online purchases. |
| 🛠️ Tech Repair Services | Several local shops offer phone and computer repair services. |
| 🏓 Table Tennis Spots | Visit local parks which often have ping pong tables available. |
| 🧑🏫 Language Classes | Langues et Cultures offers Arabic and French classes. |
| 📚 Libraries & Study Spots | The local library is situated in the medina, offering study space and resources. |
| 🏘️ Community Centers | Cultural events are held at various local community centers. |
| 🕹️ Gaming Lounges | Gamers often meet at cafes around the Moulay Hassan Square. |
| 🎰 Casino & Gaming Halls | There are no casinos in Essaouira; the closest is in Agadir. |
Business
| 🏢 Studio Purchase Price (City Center) | Approx. 1,800 MAD per m² (e.g., 40 m² = 72,000 MAD) |
| 🏢 Studio Purchase Price (Outside City) | Approx. 1,500 MAD per m² (e.g., 40 m² = 60,000 MAD) |
| 🏠 1-Bedroom Purchase Price (City Center) | Approx. 2,200 MAD per m² (e.g., 60 m² = 132,000 MAD) |
| 🏠 1-Bedroom Purchase Price (Outside City) | Approx. 1,750 MAD per m² (e.g., 60 m² = 105,000 MAD) |
| 🏡 2-Bedroom Purchase Price (City Center) | Approx. 2,000 MAD per m² (e.g., 80 m² = 160,000 MAD) |
| 🏡 2-Bedroom Purchase Price (Outside City) | Approx. 1,900 MAD per m² (e.g., 80 m² = 152,000 MAD) |
| 💼 Corporate Tax | 31% for enterprises. |
| 💵 Dividend Withholding Tax | 15% applicable on dividends. |
| 🏦 Tax System | Residence-based taxation. |
| 📈 Highest Income Tax Bracket | 38% maximum tax rate. |
| 🧾 VAT | Standard VAT rate is 20%. |
| 🌐 Controlled Foreign Company (CFC) Rules | Yes, Morocco has strict CFC rules. |
| 🏠 Property Tax | Annual property taxation applies at varying local rates. |
| 🏠 Property Transaction Tax | Transaction tax generally around 4%. |