Accor and Risma strengthen partnership in Morocco – Sofitel Tangier opens 2029

ACCOR is strengthening its historic partnership with Risma to accelerate its development in the Kingdom. This new momentum plans the opening of a Sofitel in Tangier in 2029, the modernization of the existing hotel portfolio and the creation of a training academy.

Photo credits: ACCOR

On the occasion of the visit of its CEO Sébastien Bazin on April 3, 2026, the French giant Accor officially consolidated its ties with Risma, the leader in the national hotel sector. Present in Morocco for three decades, the international operator already manages 43 establishments under prestigious brands such as Sofitel, MGallery or Pullman. This strategic rapprochement aims to support the ambition of its partner to bring its portfolio to 28 units by 2030.

This collaboration will materialize with the opening, in 2029, of a new Sofitel with 175 rooms on the Tangier corniche, overlooking the strait. Beyond this expansion, an ambitious renovation program will be deployed to modernize the existing structures and refine their segmentation. The objective is to improve the competitiveness of the current hotel portfolio while offering ever more experiences, thus helping to position Morocco as a “luxury” destination.

To support this upgrading, the two partners will co-finance the creation of a Tourism Professions Training Academy. This structure will be dedicated to enhancing local talent and professionalizing future industry players. By focusing on human capital, Accor and Risma intend to meet the new growth challenges and consolidate the excellence of the Moroccan hotel offer on the international scene.

“We are particularly proud to reach this new stage in our partnership with Risma. Gérard Pélisson, co-founder of Accor, was a great friend of Morocco, and the Kingdom remains a strategic destination for the Group. We were pioneers here and have built strong ties with leading partners. Today, the strengthening of our collaboration with Risma demonstrates our confidence in the potential of Moroccan tourism. Through major projects, we confirm our commitment to investing in the country, supporting its economic growth, and developing its talents”. Mr. Sébastien Bazin, Chairman & CEO of Accor

Mr. Amine Echcherki, Chairman of Risma’s Management Board, concluded: “The continuation and renewed momentum in our historical relationship with Accor are key factors to success regarding our ambitions. The acceleration of our shared development will notably occur through franchising, allowing for a faster and more diversified expansion of our activities. With Accor’s commercial and marketing power and Risma’s integrated management expertise, we have all the assets to contribute to the modernization of Morocco’s hotel offerings and the constant elevation of its standards.”

Ms. Maud Bailly, CEO of Sofitel Legend, Sofitel, MGallery, and Emblems at Accor, commented: “I am very pleased to see this new chapter begin between Accor and Risma, a historical partner of the Group. We have exciting projects ahead of us to undertake together, as Morocco is becoming an unparalleled benchmark for luxury destinations and experiences. I thank Risma for its renewed trust, through its Supervisory Board and Management Board.”

This strengthened partnership between Accor and Risma promises to further invigorate the Moroccan tourism sector, bringing innovation, quality training, and development opportunities. This new momentum will contribute significantly to the development of Morocco as a destination, particularly in anticipation of the upcoming 2030 World Cup.