Including 50 253 households in urban areas and 0 in rural areas.
El Maârif is a prominent arrondissement located within the prefecture of Casablanca-Anfa, in the Grand Casablanca-Settat region. As one of the most active commercial districts in Morocco, it serves as a vital urban center that balances modern retail, residential life, and major sporting infrastructure. With a population of 170,689 inhabitants according to the 2014 census, the district is a microcosm of Casablanca’s fast-paced, cosmopolitan identity.
The district is strategically positioned within the city, adjoining several of Casablanca’s most significant thoroughfares, including the boulevards of Massira, Roudani, Bir Anzarane, and Zerktouni. These boulevards are known for their luxury status and serve as the primary arteries connecting El Maârif to the rest of the metropolis. The urban landscape is characterized by a mix of middle-class residential blocks and high-end commercial developments, creating a unique environment of social and economic diversity.
El Maârif is widely recognized as the district most frequented by Casablanca's youth, serving as a trendsetting hub for the city. The area is synonymous with a sophisticated lifestyle, hosting a variety of prestigious cafés and some of the most renowned patisseries in Morocco. This culinary reputation makes it a destination for those seeking to experience the modern gastronomic culture of the city.
The district is home to some of the most recognizable architectural landmarks in Casablanca:
The commercial character of El Maârif is defined by its versatility. While it is home to luxury boutiques that cater to high-end shoppers, the district also features a wide array of shops that accommodate all budgets. This accessibility contributes to the area's reputation as a place of social diversity, where the daily rhythms of local residents blend with the bustling activity of shoppers and visitors. The presence of numerous restaurants and leisure centers ensures that the district remains active from morning until late in the evening.
As a central arrondissement, El Maârif is well-integrated into the Casablanca urban fabric. Visitors and residents benefit from its proximity to major boulevards, making it highly accessible by road. The district is best explored on foot, particularly along the main commercial streets where the density of shops, cafés, and patisseries is highest. Whether visiting for the retail experience, the sporting events at the Mohamed V complex, or simply to enjoy the vibrant atmosphere of a Casablanca neighborhood, El Maârif offers a quintessential look at the city's contemporary urban life.
