Visit Fez Stadium in Morocco's ancient imperial city. Stadium guide plus UNESCO medina tips, hotels, and AFCON 2025 info.
Football in Morocco's Spiritual and Cultural Capital
Welcome to your comprehensive guide to Fez Grand Stadium (Grand Stade de Fès), the premier football venue in Morocco's oldest imperial city. Located in Fez, a UNESCO World Heritage city renowned for its medieval medina and status as the world's oldest continuously operating university, this modernized 35,000-capacity stadium bridges Morocco's rich past with its sporting future for AFCON 2025 and FIFA World Cup 2030. See all the venues hosting the tournament in our complete guide to AFCON 2025 stadiums.
Stadium Quick Facts
| Feature | Details |
|---|
| Official Name | Grand Stade de Fès |
| Also Known As | Fez Grand Stadium, Stade de Fès |
| Arabic Name | المركب الرياضي لفاس |
| City | Fez (Fès), Morocco |
| Capacity | 35,468 (AFCON 2025); expanding to 49,200-55,800 (World Cup 2030) |
| Opened | 2007 (original); November 2024 (post-renovation) |
| Home Team | Maghreb de Fès (MAS Fès) |
| AFCON 2025 Role | Group Stage (3 matches) |
| Distance from Medina | 6 km from Fes el-Bali (Old Medina) |
| Nearest Airport | Fès-Saïss Airport (FEZ) – 15 km |
Stadium History & Transformation
Original Construction (2007)
The Complexe Sportif de Fès opened in 2007 with an initial capacity of 45,000 seats, designed as a multi-purpose venue with an athletics track. It quickly became the home of Maghreb de Fès (MAS), one of Morocco's historic football clubs.
Phase 1 Renovation (2023-2024)
Investment: 600 million MAD (~€56 million)
Duration: 13 months
Completion: November 2024
Major Upgrades:
Complete pitch renovation with premium natural grass
Upgraded seating to FIFA/CAF international standards
Advanced lighting and sound systems
Refurbished dressing rooms and player facilities
Enhanced VIP/VVIP hospitality areas
Modern electronic crowd management systems
500+ facial recognition cameras for security
Improved accessibility throughout
Capacity adjusted to 35,468 for AFCON 2025
Phase 2 Expansion (2025-2028)
Planned for World Cup 2030:
Athletics track removal for football-specific configuration
Capacity expansion to 49,200-55,800 seats
Pitch lowered for improved sightlines
Additional VIP and hospitality areas
Enhanced fan amenities
Completion target: 2028
AFCON 2025 Match Schedule
Confirmed Fixtures (3 Group Stage Matches)
Fez Grand Stadium will host three group stage matches during AFCON 2025. The imperial city setting provides a unique cultural backdrop for African football's premier tournament.
Tournament Period: December 21, 2025 – January 18, 2026
Getting to Fez Grand Stadium
From Fès-Saïss Airport (FEZ)
Distance: 15 km | **Travel Time:** 20-30 minutes
Taxi (Recommended):
Cost: 100-150 MAD ($10-15 USD)
Official airport taxis available
Journey: 20-30 minutes
Night rate: 150-200 MAD
Private Transfer:
Pre-booked transfers: from €20
Hotel shuttle services available
Ride-hailing: Careem, Heetch (limited availability)
From Fez Medina (Old City)
Distance: 6 km from Fes el-Bali | **Travel Time:** 15-20 minutes
Taxi:
Petit taxi (small taxi): 30-50 MAD
Grand taxi (shared): 10-15 MAD per person
From Bab Bou Jeloud (Blue Gate): 20-25 minutes
Note: The medina is car-free, so taxis pick up/drop off at medina gates.
From Fez Train Station (Gare de Fès)
Distance: 3 km | **Travel Time:** 10-15 minutes
Taxi:
Cost: 20-40 MAD
Duration: 10-15 minutes
Taxis readily available at station
From Other AFCON Host Cities
From Rabat:
Distance: 200 km
Train: 2.5-3 hours | 80-120 MAD
Bus: 3-3.5 hours | 60-80 MAD
From Casablanca:
Distance: 300 km
Train: 3.5-4 hours | 100-150 MAD
Bus: 4-5 hours | 80-100 MAD
From Tangier:
Distance: 350 km
Train: 4-5 hours | 120-180 MAD
Bus: 5-6 hours | 100-130 MAD
Stadium Facilities
Seating & Capacity
Total: 35,468 (AFCON 2025) | **Future:** 49,200-55,800 (World Cup 2030)
Seating Zones:
Main Tribune: Central seating with premium views
Side Stands: Excellent sightlines, atmospheric
End Zones: Supporter sections, budget-friendly
VIP Sections: Climate-controlled luxury seating
Hospitality & VIP
VIP Lounges:
Multiple hospitality suites
Premium Moroccan and international catering
Private restrooms and bars
Dedicated entrance and parking
VVIP Areas:
Exclusive presidential boxes
Private dining and reception areas
Premium service and amenities
Technology & Security
Advanced Systems:
500+ facial recognition cameras
Electronic crowd management
Digital ticketing integration
Modern sound and lighting systems
High-speed Wi-Fi (VIP areas)
Accessibility
Wheelchair-accessible seating throughout
Accessible restrooms on all levels
Ramps and elevators
Reserved accessible parking
Audio description services (select matches)
Food & Beverage
Traditional Moroccan cuisine
Halal-certified options throughout
Fez specialties (pastilla, harira)
Soft drinks, coffee, mint tea (no alcohol)
Prices: 20-100 MAD
Where to Stay: Hotels Near Fez Stadium & Medina
Luxury Riads in the Medina (5-Star)
Riad Fes
Distance from stadium: 7 km
Price: $200-400/night
Features: Luxury riad, rooftop terrace, spa, city views
Perfect for: Authentic Moroccan experience, cultural immersion
Palais Amani
Distance: 6.5 km
Price: $250-450/night
Features: Restored palace, gourmet restaurant, hammam
Perfect for: Luxury seekers, romantic getaways
Karawan Riad
Distance: 6 km
Price: $180-350/night
Features: Traditional architecture, rooftop pool, cooking classes
Perfect for: Cultural experiences, relaxation
Mid-Range Hotels (3-4 Star)
Barceló Fès Medina
Distance from stadium: 4 km
Price: $80-150/night
Features: Modern hotel, near train station, pool
Perfect for: Convenience, modern amenities
Riad Fes Maya
Distance: 6 km
Price: $70-130/night
Features: Traditional riad, central medina location
Perfect for: Budget-conscious cultural travelers
Hotel Sahrai
Distance: 5 km
Price: $100-180/night
Features: Modern design, panoramic medina views, rooftop bar
Perfect for: Contemporary comfort with views
Budget Options
Dar Seffarine
Distance: 6 km (in medina)
Price: $40-80/night
Features: Traditional guesthouse, authentic experience
Perfect for: Budget travelers, backpackers
Riad Misk Fes
Distance: 6.5 km
Price: $50-90/night
Features: Family-run riad, home-cooked meals
Perfect for: Personal touch, local insights
Hostels near Bab Bou Jeloud
Price: $15-35/night
Social atmosphere, meet fellow travelers
Walking distance to medina attractions
Nearby Attractions: UNESCO Medina & Imperial Heritage
Fes el-Bali (Old Medina) - UNESCO World Heritage Site
World's Largest Car-Free Urban Zone
Founded in 9th century
Over 10,000 winding alleys
Best-preserved medieval Arab city
UNESCO designation: 1981
Bab Bou Jeloud (The Blue Gate)
Iconic main entrance to medina
Stunning blue tiles (exterior) and green (interior)
Large brass doors and horseshoe arches
Perfect photo opportunity
Entry: Free
Chouara Tannery
Morocco's Most Famous Tannery
Traditional leather-making since 11th century
Colorful dye pits (iconic photo spot)
View from surrounding leather shops
Best visited morning (less smell)
Entry: Free (tip expected for rooftop views)
Al-Qarawiyyin Mosque & University
World's Oldest Continuously Operating University
Founded: 859 AD by Fatima al-Fihri
Recognized by UNESCO and Guinness World Records
One of Africa's largest mosques
Note: Non-Muslims cannot enter, but exterior is impressive
Historical significance unparalleled
Bou Inania Madrasa
Masterpiece of Marinid Architecture
Built: 1350-1357
Intricate marble courtyard
Stunning zellige tilework and wood carvings
One of few religious sites open to non-Muslims
Entry: 20 MAD
Al-Attarine Madrasa
Former theological college (1323)
Exquisite courtyard and architecture
Beautiful cedar wood carvings
Entry: 20 MAD
Nejjarine Museum of Wooden Arts & Crafts
Housed in 18th-century inn (funduq)
Showcases traditional Moroccan woodwork
Beautiful courtyard and fountain
Entry: 20 MAD
Jnan Sbil Gardens
Tranquil green oasis
Over 3,000 plant species
Peaceful escape from medina bustle
Perfect for afternoon relaxation
Entry: Free
Merenid Tombs & Borj Nord
Hilltop ruins overlooking Fez
Panoramic city views
Best at sunset
20-minute walk from medina
Entry: Free
Fes el-Jdid (New Fez)
Royal Palace (Dar el-Makhzen) - exterior only
Jewish Quarter (Mellah)
Grand brass doors of Royal Palace
Less crowded than old medina
Match Day Guide
Arrival Times
Group Stage: 90+ minutes before kickoff
Arrive early for security screening
Facial recognition entry may take time initially
What to Bring
Fan ID (YALLA app) + Match ticket
Valid passport or national ID
Light jacket (evenings can be cool)
Cash (MAD) for concessions
Camera (non-professional)
Prohibited Items
Large bags or backpacks
Glass bottles or containers
Professional cameras with detachable lenses
Fireworks, flares, or smoke devices
Weapons of any kind
Outside food and beverages
Stadium Atmosphere
Maghreb de Fès Supporters:
MAS Fès has passionate local support. Expect:
Drumming and organized chanting
Green and red team colors
Traditional Fassi pride
Family-friendly atmosphere
Practical Information
Weather (December-January)
AFCON 2025 Period:
Daytime: 12-18°C (54-64°F)
Evening: 5-10°C (41-50°F)
Conditions: Cool, occasional rain
Pack: Warm layers, jacket, umbrella, comfortable walking shoes
Note: Fez is cooler than coastal cities due to elevation (400m above sea level).
Tickets
AFCON 2025:
Official portal: tickets.cafonline.com
Fan ID mandatory (YALLA app: www.yallamorocco.ma)
Price range: $20-100+ depending on category
Group stage tickets most affordable
Language
Arabic (Darija) and French widely spoken
English in tourist areas and hotels
Medina shopkeepers often speak multiple languages
Basic French or Arabic phrases very helpful
Currency & Payments
Moroccan Dirham (MAD)
1 USD ≈ 10 MAD | 1 EUR ≈ 11 MAD
ATMs available throughout city
Credit cards accepted in hotels, restaurants
Cash essential for medina shopping, taxis, street vendors
Bargaining expected in souks (start at 50% of asking price)
Emergency Contacts
Police: 19
Ambulance: 15
Fire: 15
Tourist Police: +212 535 62 41 60
Stadium Medical: On-site during matches
Safety Tips
Fez is generally safe for tourists
Medina navigation: Hire official guide or use GPS (can be confusing)
Watch belongings in crowded souks
Politely decline unofficial "guides"
Use official taxis (meters or agree price first)
Dress modestly, especially in medina
Women travelers: Fez is safe but conservative dress recommended
Maghreb de Fès (MAS Fès)
Founded: 1946
Nickname: "MAS" or "The Greens"
Colors: Green and red
Stadium: Complexe Sportif de Fès
Major Achievements:
Botola Championship: 2 titles (1965, 1979)
Moroccan Throne Cup: 4 titles
Historic club with deep Fassi roots
Strong local identity and passionate fanbase
Club Philosophy:
Maghreb de Fès represents the cultural and spiritual heart of Morocco, combining competitive football with the city's rich intellectual and artisan traditions.
Fez: Morocco's Imperial & Spiritual Capital
Why Fez is Special
Morocco's Oldest Imperial City:
Founded in 789 AD, Fez served as Morocco's capital for over 400 years and remains the spiritual and cultural heart of the nation.
World's Oldest University:
The University of Al-Qarawiyyin, founded in 859 AD, predates Oxford (1096) and Bologna (1088), making it the world's oldest continuously operating degree-granting university.
UNESCO World Heritage:
Fes el-Bali (Old Medina) is the world's largest car-free urban zone and one of the best-preserved medieval cities in the Arab-Muslim world.
Artisan Capital:
Fez is renowned for traditional crafts:
Leather goods (from Chouara Tannery)
Zellige tilework (geometric mosaics)
Pottery and ceramics (blue Fez pottery)
Metalwork and woodcarving
Culinary Heritage:
Fez is considered Morocco's gastronomic capital, famous for:
Pastilla (sweet and savory pigeon pie)
Harira (traditional soup)
Fassi tagines
Mint tea ceremony
Best Time to Visit
AFCON 2025: December-January (cool, authentic winter experience)
Peak Season: March-May, September-November (pleasant weather)
Summer: June-August (hot, fewer tourists)
Winter: December-February (cool, occasional rain, fewer crowds)
Cultural Etiquette
Dress modestly (cover shoulders and knees)
Remove shoes when entering homes or mosques
Ask permission before photographing people
Use right hand for eating and greetings
Respect prayer times (5 times daily)
Bargain respectfully in souks
Essential Links
AFCON 2025 Tickets: tickets.cafonline.com
Fan ID Registration: www.yallamorocco.ma
Fez Tourism: www.visitfez.com
Maghreb de Fès: Official club social media
Sample Itinerary: Football & Imperial Heritage
Day 1: Arrival & Medina Introduction
Arrive at Fès-Saïss Airport
Check into riad in medina
Afternoon: Explore Bab Bou Jeloud area
Evening: Dinner at traditional Fassi restaurant
Night: Rooftop tea with medina views
Day 2: UNESCO Medina Deep Dive
Morning: Guided medina tour (Al-Qarawiyyin, Bou Inania Madrasa)
Midday: Visit Chouara Tannery
Lunch: Traditional Fassi cuisine
Afternoon: Nejjarine Museum, artisan workshops
Evening: Sunset at Merenid Tombs
Day 3: Match Day
Morning: Jnan Sbil Gardens relaxation
Lunch: Light meal at riad
Afternoon: Prepare for match, travel to stadium
Evening: AFCON match at Complexe Sportif de Fès
Post-match: Celebrate in Ville Nouvelle
Day 4: Exploration & Departure
Morning: Fes el-Jdid (Royal Palace, Mellah)
Shopping: Last-minute souk purchases
Lunch: Farewell Moroccan meal
Transfer to airport
Yalla! Experience football in Morocco's cultural and spiritual heart!
*Last Updated: November 30, 2025*
