One of Casablanca’s oldest hotel addresses is about to write a new chapter. LEVA Hotels is expanding into Morocco this summer with the launch of LEVA Casablanca, marking the brand’s first entry into North Africa. The move comes through a management agreement with Ismail Oukrid, COO of Ares Invest, Oukrid Family Office.
The 106-key property in Casablanca’s Mers Sultan district was formerly known as the Washington Hotel. Its official transition is scheduled for June 1, 2026. The hotel will undergo a phased refurbishment while remaining fully operational throughout the process.
Originally established in 1953, the property is a Casablanca landmark recognized for its modernist architecture, eighth-floor panoramic bar and position between the Old Medina and the city’s modern business district. The repositioning will introduce art-inspired interiors, locally led design elements, bold accents, layered textures and smart technology. Public spaces will include lobby lounges functioning as co-working hubs, an all-day dining area and a revitalized rooftop sky bar. A gym and spa are planned for a later phase.
The launch aligns with strong growth in Morocco’s tourism sector. The country welcomed a record 17.4 million tourists in 2024 and is projected to reach 26 million visitors by 2030, supported by Morocco’s 2023–2026 tourism roadmap and its role as a co-host for the FIFA World Cup 2030.
“Expanding into Casablanca is a strategic step in LEVA Hotels’ global growth journey and a key gateway into North Africa,” said JS Anand, founder and CEO of LEVA Hotels. “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 opening, LEVA Casablanca will target international business travelers, leisure guests and long-stay hybrid visitors, while also positioning itself as a local destination for Casablanca residents through food and beverage programming and community activations.