Marrakech’s iconic Jamaâ El Fna Square to undergo major renovation

Jamaâ El Fna, the historic heart of Marrakech and a UNESCO-recognized cultural treasure, will soon undergo a comprehensive renovation as part of the city’s urban development program. The $10 million-project aims to modernize infrastructure while preserving the square’s authentic character that has drawn visitors for centuries.

The renovation, overseen by Al Omrane Marrakech-Safi group on behalf of the Urban Commune of Marrakech, is scheduled to begin shortly with completion targeted for January 2026. The public contract will be awarded on May 9, 2025, with construction expected to last seven months.
According to Les Inspirations Éco newspaper, the project will be implemented in four phases, beginning with extensive groundwork and upgrading underground utilities—including electricity, sewage, and water systems—essential for the site’s functionality and safety.
Aesthetically, the square will be repaved with natural cut stone to enhance its traditional appeal. Specific improvements include a dedicated area for up to 28 traditional horse-drawn carriages, renovated or rebuilt sanitary facilities, and a modern tourist information kiosk to improve visitor experience.

Recognized on UNESCO’s Intangible Cultural Heritage list since 2008, Jamaâ El Fna represents more than just a physical space. It’s a living stage where storytellers, musicians, snake charmers, and street performers have gathered since the 11th century, creating a unique concentration of oral and cultural traditions.

Complementing the renovation, the former Bank Al-Maghrib building near the square, built in 1922, recently reopened as Morocco’s first museum dedicated to Jamaâ El Fna’s intangible heritage. Created by the National Museum Foundation, it chronicles the square’s history and promotes traditional arts.

This upgrade forms part of a broader strategy to enhance Marrakech as a premier international tourist destination. In 2024, the city welcomed nearly 4 million visitors, generating over 6.4 million overnight stays.