Living in Ouarzazate: the ultimate expat guide

Ouarzazate's economy has diversified remarkably over the past decades, creating employment opportunities in sectors that appeal to international professionals. While the job market is smaller than in Casablanca or Marrakech, the specialized industries here attract workers with specific skills in film production, renewable energy, and hospitality.

Key Employment Sectors

The film industry remains Ouarzazate's signature employer. Atlas Corporation Studios, founded in 1983, covers over 30,000 square meters and has hosted productions including Gladiator, Game of Thrones, and Kingdom of Heaven. The studios provide employment in set construction, costume design, translation services, stunt work, and hospitality, with major productions creating hundreds of temporary positions annually. The Noor Ouarzazate Solar Complex, the world's largest concentrated solar power plant at 580 MW capacity, represents Morocco's commitment to renewable energy. The complex created approximately 2,000 construction jobs during its development and maintains around 60 permanent technical positions. Tourism and hospitality employ a significant portion of the local workforce, particularly in hotels, restaurants, and tour operations serving visitors to the region's kasbahs and desert landscapes.

Work Permits and Regulations

Foreign nationals require a work permit (Contrat de Travail) approved by ANAPEC (Agence Nationale de Promotion de l'Emploi et des Compétences) before commencing employment. Employers must demonstrate that the position cannot be filled by a Moroccan citizen. The permit process typically takes 4-6 weeks and must be renewed annually. Self-employed expats and freelancers can register as auto-entrepreneurs through Morocco's simplified business registration system.

The table below summarizes key employment indicators for the Ouarzazate region:

Sources: Haut Commissariat au Plan (HCP), ANAPEC

Ouarzazate is expanding its higher education infrastructure as part of Morocco's national strategy to decentralize university access. While the city does not yet host a full university campus, recent developments have created new opportunities for students and professionals seeking further education in the region.

Local Higher Education Options

The Moroccan government approved the creation of a Higher School of Technology (École Supérieure de Technologie – EST) in Ouarzazate, operating under Ibn Zohr University of Agadir. This institution focuses on technical and vocational training aligned with regional employment needs, particularly in renewable energy, tourism management, and applied technologies. The EST offers two-year diploma programs (DUT) with practical training components designed to prepare graduates for immediate employment.

Regional University Access

For comprehensive degree programs, students typically travel to nearby university cities. Cadi Ayyad University in Marrakech (approximately 200 km) offers the closest full university experience with faculties covering sciences, humanities, law, and medicine. Ibn Zohr University in Agadir (approximately 350 km) serves as the administrative hub for the Ouarzazate EST and offers additional programs. For English-language education, Al Akhawayn University in Ifrane provides American-style liberal arts programs with instruction entirely in English. Tuition at Al Akhawayn ranges from MAD 80,000 to MAD 120,000 (USD 8,000–12,000) per year.

Admission Requirements

Admission to Moroccan public universities requires the Baccalauréat or equivalent high school diploma. International students must have their credentials evaluated and may need to demonstrate French language proficiency, as most programs are taught in French or Arabic. Morocco adopted the Bachelor-Master-Doctorate (LMD) system, facilitating credit transfer with international institutions.

Sources: Ibn Zohr University, Al Akhawayn University, Ministry of Higher Education

Ouarzazate has emerged as an attractive retirement destination for expats seeking affordable living, year-round sunshine, and a peaceful environment away from tourist crowds. The low cost of living allows retirees to stretch their pensions significantly further than in Western countries.

Residency for Retirees

Retirees planning to stay in Morocco beyond 90 days must apply for a Carte de Séjour (residence permit). The application requires proof of sufficient financial resources to support yourself without employment. Most retirees qualify under the "visitor" category by demonstrating pension income or savings. Required documents include a valid passport, proof of accommodation (rental contract or property deed), bank statements showing regular income, a medical certificate, and a criminal background check from your home country. The initial permit is typically valid for one year, renewable annually. After several years, longer permits (up to 10 years) become available. The application fee is MAD 100 per year of validity.

Healthcare Considerations

Morocco's public healthcare system operates through Assurance Maladie Obligatoire (AMO), but retirees without Moroccan employment typically rely on private healthcare and international health insurance. Ouarzazate has a regional hospital and several private clinics for routine care. For specialized treatment, most expats travel to Marrakech (private clinics) or Casablanca (university hospitals). International health insurance covering Morocco costs approximately USD 1,000–3,000 annually depending on age and coverage level. Some policies include medical evacuation, which is advisable given Ouarzazate's distance from major medical centers.

Retirement Budget

A comfortable retirement in Ouarzazate is achievable on USD 1,000–1,500 per month for a single person, or USD 1,500–2,500 for a couple. This budget covers rent, utilities, groceries, healthcare, occasional travel, and leisure activities while maintaining a quality lifestyle significantly above local standards.

Sources: Service-Public.ma, Ministry of Health Morocco

Families relocating to Ouarzazate face limited options for international schooling within the city itself. Most expat families either enroll children in local Moroccan schools for cultural immersion or arrange education in Marrakech, where international schools are more established.

Local Schooling Options

Moroccan public schools in Ouarzazate follow the national curriculum with instruction in Arabic and French. Education is compulsory from ages 6 to 15, comprising six years of primary school and three years of lower secondary. While public education is free, the quality varies, and most expats seeking Western standards opt for private schools. Several private Moroccan schools operate in Ouarzazate, offering enhanced French-language instruction and smaller class sizes. Monthly fees typically range from MAD 500 to MAD 1,500 (USD 50–150) depending on the institution and grade level.

International Schools in Marrakech

The nearest international schools are located in Marrakech, approximately 200 km (3-4 hours) from Ouarzazate. Many expat families with school-age children either commute, arrange boarding, or choose to base themselves in Marrakech while maintaining property in Ouarzazate. The American School of Marrakesh (ASM), located on Route de Ouarzazate, offers an American curriculum from preschool through grade 12. Annual tuition ranges from MAD 64,700 to MAD 90,400 (USD 6,500–9,000) depending on grade level. Several French-curriculum schools accredited by the Agency for French Education Abroad (AEFE) also operate in Marrakech, following the French national program from maternelle through the Baccalauréat.

Homeschooling and Distance Learning

Given the limited local options, some expat families choose homeschooling or online programs. Morocco permits homeschooling for foreign residents, and platforms offering British, American, or international curricula provide flexibility for families in remote locations.

Sources: Ministry of National Education, American School of Marrakesh

Finding accommodation in Ouarzazate is relatively straightforward compared to larger Moroccan cities. The compact urban layout means most amenities are accessible regardless of neighborhood, and rental prices remain among the lowest in Morocco's tourism regions.

Popular Neighborhoods

The city stretches primarily along Avenue Mohammed V, the main commercial artery. The city center near Place Al Mouahidine offers proximity to shops, banks, restaurants, and the central market. Housing here includes modern apartments above commercial spaces and traditional riads. The Taourirt district, near the famous Kasbah Taourirt, provides a more atmospheric setting with traditional architecture and quieter streets. This area appeals to expats seeking authentic Moroccan ambiance. Newer residential developments on the outskirts toward the airport offer modern villas and apartments with gardens, popular among families seeking more space and parking.

Rental Prices and Procedures

Rental costs in Ouarzazate are significantly lower than in Marrakech or coastal cities. The table below provides typical monthly rents:

Rental contracts typically require one to two months' deposit plus the first month's rent in advance. Leases are usually for 6-12 months. Landlords may request a copy of your passport and residence permit. Having a Moroccan contact assist with negotiations can help secure better terms.

Utilities and Practical Considerations

Utilities (electricity, water, gas) typically add MAD 300–600 (USD 30–60) monthly for a moderate apartment. Most homes lack central heating; winters can be cold at Ouarzazate's altitude, so portable heaters are common. Internet (fiber or ADSL) costs approximately MAD 300–400 (USD 30–40) monthly for reliable service.

Sources: Numbeo, local real estate agencies

Ouarzazate's location at the edge of the Sahara and the foot of the Atlas Mountains creates unique recreational opportunities. From exploring UNESCO World Heritage Sites to venturing into the desert, the region offers experiences unavailable anywhere else in Morocco.

Cultural Attractions

The Ksar of Ait Benhaddou, a UNESCO World Heritage Site located 30 km northwest of Ouarzazate, represents the finest example of southern Moroccan earthen architecture. This fortified village has appeared in dozens of films including Gladiator, Game of Thrones, and Lawrence of Arabia. Entry is free, though guides can be hired for approximately MAD 100–150. Within Ouarzazate, Kasbah Taourirt offers a glimpse into traditional Berber fortress architecture and houses a small museum. Entry costs MAD 20. Atlas Studios welcomes visitors for guided tours at MAD 80 per person, allowing exploration of preserved film sets from major productions.

Outdoor Activities

The surrounding region provides exceptional opportunities for desert excursions, mountain trekking, and cultural exploration. Popular activities include:

1. Sahara Desert tours – Multi-day excursions to the dunes of Merzouga or Zagora, including camel trekking and overnight camping.
2. Valley exploration – Day trips through the dramatic Dadès Gorge and Todra Gorge, featuring towering rock formations.
3. Oasis visits – The Fint Oasis, just 15 km from the city, offers palm groves and traditional villages.
4. Trekking – The nearby Jebel Saghro mountains provide rugged hiking terrain with Berber village homestays.

Dining and Nightlife

Ouarzazate offers numerous restaurants serving traditional Moroccan cuisine, including tagines, couscous, and grilled meats. A meal at a local restaurant typically costs MAD 40–80, while mid-range establishments charge MAD 150–250 for a full dinner. As a predominantly Muslim city, nightlife is limited compared to Marrakech. Several hotel bars serve alcohol, and cafés along Avenue Mohammed V provide social gathering spots for tea and conversation.

Sources: UNESCO World Heritage Centre, Atlas Studios

Daily life in Ouarzazate moves at a gentler pace than Morocco's bustling coastal cities. The compact size means errands are quick, traffic is minimal, and the desert climate shapes daily routines around morning and evening hours when temperatures are most pleasant.

Getting Around

Ouarzazate does not have a public bus system within the city. Most residents rely on petit taxis (red-colored vehicles) for local trips, with fares typically MAD 7–20 (USD 0.70–2) depending on distance. Walking is practical for reaching most destinations along Avenue Mohammed V. For regional travel, grand taxis (beige Mercedes) connect Ouarzazate to surrounding villages and cities. CTM and Supratours buses operate daily routes to Marrakech (approximately 4-5 hours, MAD 80-100) and other destinations. Ouarzazate Airport (OZZ), located just 2.5 km from the city center, offers domestic flights to Casablanca and seasonal international connections. Many expats choose to rent or purchase a car for greater flexibility, especially for exploring the surrounding valleys and desert.

Shopping and Services

The central souk and weekly markets provide fresh produce, meat, and household goods at local prices. Several supermarkets stock imported products for expats missing familiar brands. Banking services are available through branches of Attijariwafa Bank, BMCE Bank, and Banque Populaire. ATMs are located throughout the city center. Mobile phone services from Maroc Telecom, Orange, and Inwi offer prepaid and postpaid plans with good coverage in urban areas.

Climate and Lifestyle

Ouarzazate experiences a semi-arid desert climate with hot summers (temperatures exceeding 40°C in July-August) and cool winters (dropping near freezing at night in December-January). The dry climate and abundant sunshine create ideal conditions for outdoor activities during spring and autumn. Ramadan significantly affects daily rhythms, with reduced business hours and closed restaurants during daylight fasting hours.

Sources: CTM, ONCF/Supratours

Ouarzazate offers one of Morocco's most affordable cost-of-living profiles, approximately 10% below the national average. Expats can maintain a comfortable lifestyle on a modest budget, particularly those willing to adopt local shopping and dining habits.

Monthly Budget for a Single Person

The following table estimates monthly expenses for a single expat maintaining a moderate lifestyle:

Monthly Budget for a Family of Four

Families should anticipate higher expenses, particularly if enrolling children in private schools:

Sources: Numbeo, ERI Economic Research Institute