LEVA Hotels targets high-growth North Africa with Casablanca entry   

Casablanca’s hospitality scene is set for a fresh addition this summer as LEVA Hotels prepares to open LEVA Casablanca. The property, formerly known as the Washington Hotel, will officially transition on June 1, 2026, under a management agreement with Ismail Oukrid, COO of Ares Invest and the Oukrid Family Office. 

The 106-key, four-star hotel in the bustling Mers Sultan district will undergo a phased renovation, allowing it to remain fully operational for guests during the transformation. 

Founded in 1953, the hotel has long been a Casablanca landmark, known for its modernist architecture, panoramic bar on the eighth floor, and a unique position connecting the Old Medina with the city’s business hub. Its history mirrors the evolution of the city itself—classic yet vibrant, blending urban energy with charm. 

LEVA Casablanca will honor this heritage while introducing contemporary, locally inspired interiors. Guests can expect art-led design, layered textures, and integrated technology.

Public spaces will encourage social interaction, featuring lobby lounges that double as co-working areas, a communal-style all-day dining venue, and a revitalized rooftop bar. Guest rooms are designed for both short stays and extended visits, with plans for a gym and spa in later phases. 

Casablanca welcomes modern LEVA Hotel

The launch comes as Morocco’s tourism sector experiences rapid growth. In 2024, the country welcomed 17.4 million visitors, with projections reaching 26 million by 2030.

Supported by the 2023–2026 tourism roadmap and Morocco’s upcoming co-hosting of the FIFA World Cup 2030, demand for modern, design-led hotels is rising, positioning Casablanca as an ideal market for LEVA’s approach. 

JS Anand, founder and CEO of LEVA Hotels, said: “Casablanca combines business activity, cultural energy, and connectivity. This market allows us to apply our conversion-focused model to deliver a modern hospitality experience quickly, while respecting the city’s heritage.” 

Upon completion, LEVA Casablanca will serve international business travelers, design-conscious leisure visitors, and long-stay guests. Its food and beverage outlets and community-focused programming aim to make the hotel a lively local hub as well. 

LEVA Hotels blends tech with comfort

Founded in 2019, LEVA Hotels offers a lifestyle-focused concept combining modern convenience with traditional hospitality. The brand caters to tech-savvy travelers, providing seamless experiences for both work and leisure. 

Its flagship property, LEVA Mazaya Centre – Dubai, earned the top spot on TripAdvisor within three years of opening, thanks in part to its signature dining space managed by Baker’s Kitchen, featuring rustic benches and retro baking elements that reflect the brand’s contemporary vision.