Fez Stadium (Complexe Sportif de Fès): Complete Visitor Guide

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

---

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

• SONARGES (Stadium Management): [email protected] | +212 537 798 303
• 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