Best Muslim Friendly Cities: Casablanca

بِسْمِ ٱللَّٰهِ ٱلرَّحْمَٰنِ ٱلرَّحِيمِ

Welcome to Casablanca – Morocco’s largest and most cosmopolitan city. While many travelers pass through en route to more traditional destinations like Marrakech or Fez, Muslim family travelers will find that Casablanca has a unique charm of its own. With its blend of modernity and Islamic heritage, vibrant food scene, family-friendly attractions, and deeply rooted Moroccan identity, Casablanca offers an enriching and comfortable travel experience for Muslim families.

In this blog post, we’ll take you through everything you need to know before visiting Casablanca – from its rich history and Islamic landmarks to halal food options and recreational activities for families. Let’s explore why Casablanca deserves a prime spot on your Moroccan travel itinerary.

A Brief History of Casablanca

Casablanca, known locally as "Dar el Beida," has a history stretching back to the 7th century when it was originally a small Berber settlement called Anfa. During the Islamic expansion across North Africa, Anfa became a significant trading port. The city was destroyed by the Portuguese in the 15th century and later rebuilt and renamed "Casa Branca," which the Spanish later adapted to "Casablanca."

Under French colonial rule in the early 20th century, Casablanca transformed into a modern metropolis with European-style boulevards and infrastructure. Today, the city reflects a unique blend of traditional Moroccan heritage and modern urban living, making it a fascinating destination for history lovers and curious travelers alike.

Infrastructure and City Layout

Casablanca is Morocco’s economic hub, and this is reflected in its modern infrastructure. Muslim family travelers will appreciate the well-maintained roads, reliable transportation systems, and extensive amenities that make traveling with children more convenient.

• Mohammed V International Airport connects Casablanca to many international cities, and airport transfers via taxis or ride-share apps are easily accessible.

• The Casa Tramway is a clean and efficient mode of public transport, with routes covering major neighborhoods and attractions.

• Accommodations range from budget hotels to luxury family suites, many of which offer halal meals and prayer facilities.

Casablanca is also home to international schools, universities, hospitals, and shopping centers, making it a comfortable urban experience for traveling families.

Mosques in Casablanca: Islamic Heritage Up Close

No visit to Casablanca is complete without seeing the Hassan II Mosque, the largest mosque in Morocco and one of the most stunning in the world. Situated right on the Atlantic coast, the mosque is partially built over the ocean and can hold over 100,000 worshippers.

Key Features:

• A 210-meter minaret, the tallest in the world

• Beautifully detailed mosaics, marble floors, and hand-carved woodwork

• Equipped with a retractable roof, offering an open-sky prayer experience

• Open to non-Muslim visitors on guided tours (outside of prayer times), but Muslim families can enter freely to pray

Other Notable Mosques

• Mosquée Ould el Hamra – A historic mosque in the Old Medina, reflecting traditional Moroccan mosque architecture

• Mosquée Al Mohammadi – Known for its Andalusian-style arches and peaceful ambiance, great for quiet prayers

Halal Food in Casablanca – A Culinary Exploration

Morocco’s cuisine is globally celebrated, and Casablanca doesn’t disappoint. Almost all food in the city is halal, making it an ideal destination for Muslim families. Here’s what to try:

Traditional Moroccan Cuisine

• Tagine – A slow-cooked stew of meat, vegetables, and spices, served in the iconic clay pot

• Couscous – Often served on Fridays, it’s a must-try dish topped with vegetables and meat

• Harira Soup – A Ramadan favorite, this tomato-based soup is hearty and flavorful

Street Food and Sweet Treats

• Msemen & Baghrir – Moroccan pancakes perfect for breakfast or a quick snack

• Fresh Juices – Widely available and made with seasonal fruits

• Chebakia – A sweet, sesame-covered pastry often enjoyed during Ramadan

International Foods

• Pizza – Little pizza shops are popular and around almost every corner, fresh and tasty.

• Sushi – Pleasant surprise of authentic and fusion Sushi spots all over the city

• Produce – Some of the best fresh fruits, vegetables, and especially olive oil

• BBQ - Buy your meat and get it grilled up with all the sides and mint tea

The Old Medina and Houbous Market – A Shopper’s Haven

Old Medina – Dive into Casablanca’s Past

The Old Medina is a maze of narrow alleyways, local shops, and historic buildings. Unlike the medinas in Marrakech or Fez, Casablanca’s medina is more locally oriented and less touristy. It’s the perfect place to shop for:

• Handmade leather goods

• Islamic books and calligraphy

• Modest clothing and Moroccan djellabas

• Spices, dried fruits, and traditional remedies

Expect friendly vendors and plenty of opportunities to practice your bargaining skills! There is also the famous central fish market that is a must visit for lunch.

Quartier Habous (Houbous Market)

Often called the "New Medina," the Houbous Market was developed during the French protectorate. It combines colonial architecture with Moroccan souk culture, offering:

• Beautiful traditional Moroccan lamps, ceramics, and handwoven rugs

• Bookstores selling Arabic literature and Islamic texts

• Boutique stores with upscale Moroccan fashion

The area is clean, organized, and very family-friendly – a peaceful alternative to the busier Medina. There are also 2 beautiful mosques and plenty of places to find a bite.

Cost of Living in Casablanca – Budgeting for Muslim Families

One of the most attractive aspects of visiting Casablanca is that it offers a cosmopolitan experience without breaking the bank. Compared to cities in Europe or the Gulf, Casablanca is affordable for Muslim families, whether you're traveling on a modest budget or seeking a more luxurious stay.

Accommodation Costs

• Budget hotels & riads: $25–$50 USD per night

• Mid-range hotels & serviced apartments: $60–$120 USD per night

• Luxury hotels & resorts: $150–$300 USD+ per night

Food & Dining Prices

• Street food/snacks: $1–$3 USD

• Local restaurants: $5–$10 USD per meal

• Family dining: $20–$40 USD for four people

• Luxury dining: $15–$30 USD per person

Transport Costs

• Tram ticket: $0.60 USD

• Taxi rides: $2–$8 USD(Careem App is the best)

Demographics: A Diverse, Welcoming City

Casablanca is home to over 3.7 million residents, making it the most populous city in Morocco. The majority are Sunni Muslims, and the city has a long-standing tradition of religious tolerance and diversity.

Islam plays a central role in daily life, from the call to prayer echoing through the streets to Friday prayers drawing large congregations. You’ll also find:

• Plenty of prayer spaces, including mosques in malls and public areas

• Modest clothing is widely available and commonly worn

• Friendly people, you will find Moroccans to be very kind and welcoming to tourists

Family-Friendly Activities in Casablanca

Traveling with kids? Here are some fun and culturally enriching things to do:

Ain Diab Corniche:

A popular waterfront area perfect for walks, seaside dining, and beach access. It features:

• Playgrounds

• Halal cafés

• Relaxing family picnic spots

Morocco Mall:

The largest mall in Africa offers:

• An aquarium

• Indoor ice-skating rink

• Children’s play zones

• Halal food court

Parc de la Ligue Arabe:

One of Casablanca’s oldest and largest public parks offers:

• Walking paths, lush gardens, and palm-lined boulevards

• Ideal for family picnics and children’s playtime

• Offers a peaceful escape from the city’s hustle

Casablanca offers the perfect blend of spirituality, cultural exploration, and family-friendly experiences. From the majestic Hassan II Mosque and historic medinas to its modern comforts and delicious halal cuisine, the city is a welcoming destination for Muslim family travelers.

Whether you're planning a short stay or using Casablanca as a base to explore the rest of Morocco, this vibrant city will leave you wanting more! Enjoy!

Learn more about Morocco here

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** Disclaimer: We are compensated for some of the links provided in this article if you purchase something, but we only recommend what we have used and found successful or we have done some research to find. This blog should not be used as financial advice and we are not travel agents, we are just letting you know our opinions from real life experience. May Allah bless you and your family on your travels!