In a significant development for the hospitality landscape, LEVA Hotels is poised to unveil its latest venture in Morocco this summer, marking the brand's inaugural entry into North Africa. Scheduled to officially transition on June 1, 2026, the new LEVA Casablanca will take over the reins of one of the city's oldest hotel establishments, formerly known as the Washington Hotel, located in the vibrant Mers Sultan district. This expansion comes through a management partnership with Ismail Oukrid, the COO of Ares Invest and Oukrid Family Office.
The LEVA Casablanca will feature 106 guest rooms and is set to undergo a phased refurbishment while remaining fully operational, ensuring that guests continue to experience quality service throughout the transition. Originally established in 1953, this hotel is a recognized landmark in Casablanca, celebrated for its stunning modernist architecture and its strategic location nestled between the historic Old Medina and the contemporary business district of the city. The refurbishment plan includes a fresh, art-inspired interior design, a focus on local aesthetics, bold design elements, and the integration of smart technology. Guests will enjoy enhanced public spaces, including lobby lounges that double as co-working hubs, an all-day dining area, and a revamped rooftop sky bar. Additionally, plans are in place for a gym and spa to be introduced in a subsequent phase.
This launch is timely, coinciding with a notable surge in Morocco's tourism sector, which saw a record 17.4 million tourists in 2024 alone. The country is on track to welcome 26 million visitors by 2030, buoyed by the 2023–2026 tourism roadmap and its role as a co-host for the FIFA World Cup 2030. JS Anand, founder and CEO of LEVA Hotels, emphasized the strategic importance of this expansion, stating, "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. It allows us to apply our asset-light, conversion-driven model to unlock value quickly while introducing a fresh, design-led hospitality experience. Simply put, this move reflects our strategy: enter dynamic cities early, create impact fast, and scale with purpose." Upon its opening, LEVA Casablanca aims to cater to a diverse clientele, including international business travelers, leisure guests, and long-stay visitors, while also engaging with the local community through innovative food and beverage offerings and various activations.
As reported by hotelsmag.com.
