Fez — Morocco has landed 31 hotels in the Michelin Guide 2026 Key selection, placing the country just behind South Africa for the highest number of recognized properties on the continent.
The updated global selection, published on September 18, lists South Africa with 32 Key hotels and Morocco with 31. Egypt follows with 13.
The Michelin Key works as the hotel counterpart to the guide’s restaurant stars. One Key represents a particularly distinctive stay, Two Keys indicate an exceptional experience, and Three Keys mark the guide’s highest level of hotel recognition.
Morocco currently has two properties holding Three Keys, Kasbah Tamadot in Asni and La Mamounia in Marrakech.
Fez gets a new Key
One of the notable Moroccan additions this year is Riad Mayfez Suites & Spa, which received One Michelin Key.
Located in Fez’s old medina, the property occupies a 19th-century palace and contains seven rooms. Michelin highlighted the riad for moving beyond a strictly traditional decorative approach, combining Arabic-Moorish architecture with Art Deco influences and references to London.
The property includes a black marble swimming pool, hammam, spa treatments, a library, rooftop spaces, and cooking experiences. Michelin also notes its emphasis on intimacy and slow travel rather than the structure of a conventional large hotel.
That mix of heritage and contemporary design reflects a broader pattern across Morocco’s hospitality landscape.
Michelin’s current Morocco selection stretches beyond Marrakech and Fez to destinations including Essaouira, Larache, Rabat, Taghazout, El Jadida, Oualidia, Asni, and Casablanca.
The list includes riads, luxury resorts, restored historic properties, coastal retreats, and hotels connected to some of Morocco’s most established international hospitality brands.
Morocco among Africa’s strongest hotel selections
Globally, Michelin’s 2026 awards include 155 Three-Key hotels, 657 Two-Key properties, and 2,020 One-Key hotels. Nearly 500 hotels received their first Key this year, while more than 80 were upgraded.
Across Africa, more than 100 hotels in 15 countries now hold Keys. Morocco’s 31 properties give it one of the continent’s deepest selections and place its hospitality offering across both established luxury destinations and smaller, highly individual stays.
