Dubai-based Leva Hotels enters Morocco with Casablanca conversion deal

Leva Hotels is set to enter Morocco with the launch of Leva Casablanca on 1 June 2026, marking its first foray into North Africa through a management agreement with Ares Invest.

 

The 106-key property, formerly the Washington Hotel, will undergo a phased refurbishment while remaining operational, repositioning it as a lifestyle-led offering in Casablanca’s Mers Sultan district. 

 

The signing points to Leva Hotels’ asset-light strategy, with a focus on conversions in high-growth urban markets. By taking over an existing asset, the group is able to accelerate market entry while reducing development timelines and capital exposure. 

 

Leva Casablanca will target business travellers, leisure guests and long-stay segments, supported by flexible room formats and community-driven public spaces. The repositioning will introduce updated interiors and upgraded rooms, aligning with the brand’s design-led positioning. Planned features include co-working-style lobby areas, an all-day dining concept and a rooftop venue, with additional a gym and spa to be introduced in later phases.

 

The approach reflects a broader shift towards hybrid hospitality models that blend work, social and leisure functions within a single property. For operators, conversion models continue to gain traction as a faster route to scale in competitive city markets.

 

RELATED:
Dubai-born Leva Hotels makes European debut in Austria
Dubai-based Leva Hotels to debut in Zimbabwe
Musafir sees UAE travel trend for Eid staycations as flight costs rise

 

The move comes as Morocco’s tourism sector enters a strong growth phase. The country welcomed 17.4 million visitors in 2024 and is targeting 26 million by 2030, supported by its national tourism roadmap and preparations for the FIFA World Cup 2030.

 

Casablanca, as a commercial hub with strong connectivity, is emerging as a key market for both business and leisure demand. This creates opportunities for lifestyle-focused brands to capture a mix of short-stay and extended-stay travellers.

 

JS Anand, founder and CEO of Leva Hotels, said the Casablanca launch aligns with the group’s focus on entering high-potential markets early. “Casablanca offers the right mix of business demand, connectivity and cultural energy, aligning with our focus on high-growth markets,” he said.

 

The expansion positions Leva Hotels to build a presence in North Africa as demand continues to diversify across the region.

 

For more information, visit stayleva.com