The perfect destination to turn a business trip into an unforgettable weekend away

Located on the Atlantic coast in Morocco, Casablanca is famed as the country’s business heartland. Home to a wealth of established companies and an increasing number of start-ups, it boasts one of the largest ports in Africa – the Port of Casablanca – and enjoys strong air connectivity from Europe.

But there’s so much more to Casablanca than business. Boasting an incredible variety of unique experiences, agents have plenty of options to tempt corporate travellers to extend their stay.

Here are five ways to inspire your clients to book a ‘bleisure’ trip, and combine both business and leisure in Casablanca.

1. Find the right clientele 

A ‘bleisure’ trip is ideal for international business travellers. While business travel agents will already deal with these clients, leisure agents are also likely to have them among their customer base. Consider executives, entrepreneurs and those travelling for MICE (meetings, incentives, conferences and exhibitions). Also consider expatriates on short-term assignments.

For all of these travellers, Casablanca offers an easy transition between business and leisure, as a dynamic, urban and international city.  

2. Showcase the gastronomy, shopping and nightlife

As the largest city in Morocco, Casablanca has an impressive gastronomy scene. Visitors can enjoy dishes with Moroccan, French, Spanish and African influences, and Casablanca is famed for its fresh seafood and aromatic spices.

They can enjoy fusion restaurants and rooftop dining in areas such as La Corniche in the Ain Diab neighbourhood, and in the evening the area is popular for its nightclubs, cocktail lounges and bars with sea views. The Gauthier district also offers a diverse dining scene and fashionable bars.

Visit Casablanca has created a suggested itinerary for visitors who want to explore Casablanca on a shopping tour, and it starts at the beachfront mall of Anfa Place, with its high-end boutiques, popular restaurants and beachfront promenade. It also takes in Morocco Mall – one of Africa’s largest shopping centres – and the palm-lined quays of Marina Shopping in the Marina district. Bab Marrakech is a vibrant neighbourhood with boutiques and markets, while the historic Habous neighbourhood is labyrinth of shops selling crafts, clothing, luggage, carpets and more. 

Another suggested tour takes in the vibrant Downtown area's history, architecture and culture. It includes the Sacred Heart Cathedral, an architectural gem that showcases French cultural and religious influence in the region, alongside the Arab League Park, with its expansive lawns, palm-lined walkways, fountains and sculptures. At the Abderrahman Slaoui Museum visitors can learn about Moroccan artistic and cultural heritage by admiring the impressive collections, and they can relax at the majestic Place Mohammed V square, with its fountains and historic buildings. 

3. Highlight the history and culture 

Casablanca is home to the Hassan II Mosque, which is one of the largest mosques in the world, and visitors can join a guided tour to admire its spectacular Moorish design with sections of glass floor, intricate interiors and a 210-meter-tall minaret (tower), which is the second tallest in the world.

The Old Medina in downtown Casablanca is just a short stroll from many of the popular business hotels, and is home to some of the city’s oldest structures, winding streets and inviting local restaurants. Visitors can also explore the bustling souk.  

Visit Casablanca’s suggested Habous Immersion itinerary encourages visitors to explore the Habous district’s cultural and architectural riches, including the Royal Palace – the main royal residence of the King of Morocco in Casablanca. It’s closed to the public, but passers-by can admire its impressive architecture and lush gardens. The itinerary also spans the area’s colourful market, key mosques, charming squares and traditional Moroccan courthouse with its magnificent Moorish architecture.

Just over an hour’s drive from Casablanca is El Jadida, and Visit Casablanca also offers a suggested itinerary for this welcoming coastal town. It includes the 16th century Portuguese City, with its historic ramparts and central square, as well as the Bastion, seaside restaurants, a historic lighthouse, ancient underground water reservoir and beach. 

4. Tempt visitors with Casablanca’s wellness, golf, spa and beach experiences

In Casablanca visitors can enjoy both traditional Moroccan rituals and modern spas. They can visit one of the city’s traditional hammams for a private hammam and massage session, and try premium treatments at spas such as the Spa at Royal Mansour Casablanca and at Four Seasons Hotel Casablanca.

Casablanca is also a haven for golfers, who can tee off at top courses such as the 18-hole Tony Jacklin Casablanca, Casa Green Golf Club or PalmGolf Casablanca, which all offer challenging courses and picturesque surroundings.

The city’s beaches are another key selling point, with golden sand and strong Atlantic waves suitable for surfing and water sports. Ain Diab Beach is known for its lively promenade and wealth of cafes, restaurants and beach clubs with pools. Jack Beach is popular with surfers, and for a more relaxed experience visitors can head to the serene Tamaris Beach.

5. Spotlight the stand-out hotels 

Customers can choose from a range of business- and leisure-friendly hotels, including options such as the stylish Royal Mansour Casablanca, and brands such as Sofitel, Hyatt Regency, Le Meridien, Marriott and Four Seasons.

Why not extend an invitation for your business clients to explore this dynamic metropolis on their next trip?