Ramadan in Marrakech: 5 Compelling Reasons to Visit During the Holy Month

The sun sinks behind the Atlas Mountains and the cannon thunders over the medina. In an instant, the teeming streets of Marrakech come to a halt. It is f’tour time, when families gather to break the fast of Ramadan, a magical time that completely transforms the face of the red city.

This year Ramadan is scheduled to begin on Saturday, March 01, 2025, and end on Monday, March 31. The exact timing is based on the sighting of the moon. For those planning a trip to Marrakech, here is why this period is so special:

1. The unique atmosphere of the sunset

Those who know Marrakech know that finding a quiet moment in its alleys is virtually impossible. But during Ramadan, every evening at 7 p.m., the city comes to a standstill. The sound of the cannon announces the f’tour and the streets empty out as if by magic. You can stroll through the deserted medina, photograph the silent alleys, and experience a Marrakech that very few are lucky enough to know.

2. The enchanted nights of Jemaa el-Fna

After the f’tour, the square is transformed. Thousands of worshippers gather for the Tarawih prayer around the Koutoubia, so numerous that the prayers extend into the square. From the terrace of Café France or Café Argana, with a mint tea in hand, you can immerse yourself in this moment of extraordinary spiritual intensity.

3. The perfect weather for exploring

Forget the sweltering heat of summer: March in Marrakech brings mild, bright days. The ideal temperatures will allow you to get lost in the souks, relax on the terrace and enjoy the riad pool without suffering from the scorching heat of the summer months.

4. An immersion in true local culture

Contrary to what you might think, Marrakech does not stop during Ramadan. Eighty percent of activities continue as normal, including restaurants and tourist venues. But it is the perfect time for those who want to go beyond the surface: many restaurants offer traditional f’tour menus, allowing you to share this important tradition with locals.

5. Moroccan hospitality at its best

Ramadan is the month of generosity and sharing. Families gather, doors open, and hospitality-already legendary in Morocco-reaches its peak. It is the perfect time to get to know the true soul of Marrakech, made up of encounters, smiles and small gestures of extraordinary kindness.

To fully experience this, our advice is to dine at least once in Jemaa el-Fna Square during Ramadan. Several restaurants offer traditional f’tour buffets, but even simply sitting at Café France with a drink can give you an unforgettable spectacle of local life.

For those interested in an even more authentic experience, many local associations organize solidarity initiatives during Ramadan. Our staff at Riad Alkemia will be happy to put you in touch with these realities: it is a beautiful way to experience firsthand the spirit of sharing that animates this period.

Riad Alkemia remains open normally throughout Ramadan, ready to welcome you with its intimate and relaxing atmosphere. Whether you are looking for a spiritual, cultural experience or simply eager to discover an unseen face of Marrakech, Ramadan is truly a magical time to visit the Red City.

Come and discover it with us…