Marrakech's tourist success reshapes the city's identity and lifestyle

He describes a childhood marked by freedom, contrasting it with the current generation's need for more to achieve happiness. Rabbaj observes that modernity has significantly altered Moroccan lifestyles, leading to a more Westernized way of living. While acknowledging progress, he laments the decline of traditional values like solidarity.

He notes that mass tourism has contributed to these changes, but emphasizes that globalization, disseminated through media, is the primary driver, making Moroccans feel they live in the world rather than just Morocco. The author discusses the transformation of the medina, with original inhabitants moving to the outskirts as riads are converted into tourist accommodations and Airbnb rentals. He offers a nuanced perspective, suggesting that selling these riads at high prices allows heirs to live comfortably and that renovating one riad can help preserve several neighboring ones.

Rabbaj acknowledges the displacement of long-term residents but views change as an inherent part of life. Addressing public discontent over real estate speculation and rising prices, Rabbaj believes the state has tools to regulate these dynamics, citing examples from Spanish cities that manage foreign investment. He stresses the importance of education in fostering acceptance of differences and preventing identit