The enchanting journey of love and entrepreneurship unfolds in Rabat, where a Dutch woman, Nina Ottevanger, fell for her Moroccan surf instructor, Ilyass Gougali. Eleven years later, this couple has transformed a dilapidated riad, which had been abandoned for over two decades, into a charming family hotel, showcasing their commitment to both their relationship and the local community.
Their story began in 2015 when Nina traveled to Morocco with two friends. Eager to experience the waves, they decided to take a surfing lesson in Rabat. Although the group had already set off, Ilyass offered them a private session, marking the start of a long-distance relationship that would flourish over time. Nina found herself returning to Rabat regularly during her university holidays, and in 2016, while Ilyass managed a surf camp on the Atlantic coast, she secured an internship nearby. This shared experience solidified their aspirations for a future together.
After completing her studies in tourism, Nina worked at a travel agency in The Hague. Ilyass eventually joined her in the Netherlands, and the couple tied the knot in 2021. However, the Dutch winters proved challenging for Ilyass, prompting them to devise a plan where they could spend summers working in the Netherlands and winters in Morocco. This arrangement led them to establish a surf school in Rabat, where they also hosted clients with local families, allowing them to maintain a connection to their roots.
Restoring a Historical Riad
In 2024, the couple sought a riad in the ocean-side area of Rabat's medina, aiming to provide their future clients with easy access to the beach for surfing. They discovered a severely degraded traditional house, void of bathrooms and left to decay for over twenty years. Remarkably, the structure retained some of its historical features, including exquisite traditional tiles, which contributed to its higher price compared to other riads in the medina. While the exact purchase price was not disclosed, Nina and Ilyass utilized their savings to cover 40% of it, with the remaining 60% financed through loans from family and friends. Renovations commenced in April 2025.
The couple took charge of the renovation process, enlisting local plumbers, electricians, and artisans to assist them. Nina’s father, experienced in such projects, provided guidance in designing the rooms and drafting plans. After five months of hard work and an investment of approximately €75,000, the riad welcomed its first guests in October 2025. The establishment features five rooms, accommodating up to 16 guests, with rates starting at 500 dirhams, inclusive of breakfast and dinner. The project also supports Ilyass’s family, with his mother preparing evening meals, his sister handling breakfasts and guest reception, and his brother participating in surf lessons.
A Unique Surf Destination
Nina and Ilyass hope to fully recoup their investment through the hotel's profits within eight years. Their venture coincides with Rabat's rising popularity as a tourist destination, competing with Marrakech by offering a blend of medina charm, beach access, and surf opportunities. However, the couple is not keen on presenting Rabat as a crowded surf spot. They emphasize its tranquil atmosphere, where surfers can often enjoy the waves with just ten to twenty people in the water, along with a more relaxed lifestyle compared to what they experienced in the Netherlands.
As reported by bladi.net.
