Dubai-born hotel group enters Morocco with Casablanca launch

Dubai: Dubai-born Leva Hotels has announced its entry into North Africa with a new project in Casablanca.

The brand will launch Leva Casablanca this summer through a management agreement with Ismail Oukrid, COO of the Group, Ares Invest, Oukrid Family Office.

The property, formerly known as the Washington Hotel, will officially transition on June 1, 2026.

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Phased transformation

The centrally located 106-key, four-star hotel in Casablanca’s Mers Sultan district will be repositioned into a design-led, lifestyle-focused destination.

The refurbishment will take place in phases, said the group in a statement, allowing the hotel to remain fully operational throughout the transition.

Originally established in 1953, the property has long been considered a landmark in Casablanca, known for its location at the intersection of the Old Medina and the city’s modern business district.

Public areas will include lobby lounges designed to double as co-working spaces, an all-day dining venue with a communal atmosphere, and a revitalised rooftop sky bar. Guest rooms will be designed for both short and extended stays, with plans for a gym and spa at a later stage.

The move comes as Morocco’s tourism sector continues to grow. The country recorded 17.4 million visitors in 2024 and is projected to reach 26 million by 2030, supported by its 2023–2026 tourism roadmap and its role as a co-host of the 2030 FIFA World Cup.

JS Anand, Founder and CEO of LEVA Hotels, said, “Expanding into Casablanca is a strategic step in LEVA Hotels’ global growth journey and a key gateway into North Africa. Casablanca offers the right mix of business demand, connectivity, and cultural energy - aligning perfectly with our focus on high-potential, evolving markets.”

He said, “It allows us to apply our asset-light, conversion-driven model to unlock value quickly while introducing a fresh, design-led hospitality experience.”

Once completed, LEVA Casablanca aims to attract a mix of international business travellers, leisure guests, and long-stay visitors.