Mawazine

Mawazine is a dynamic international music festival held annually in Rabat, Morocco. It features a blend of global and local music artists, establishing itself as a must-visit event for music enthusiasts. The festival is organized under the stewardship of Mounir Majidi, who is not only the personal secretary to King Mohammed VI of Morocco but also the founder of Maroc Culture, the institution responsible for Mawazine.

Since its inception in 2001, Mawazine has hosted an impressive roster of artists, including legends like Whitney Houston, Mariah Carey, Stevie Wonder, and contemporary stars such as Alicia Keys, Shakira, Justin Timberlake, and Jennifer Lopez. This diverse range of performers has contributed to the festival's growing popularity each year.

However, Mawazine has not been without controversy. Critics have raised concerns about its funding, particularly regarding the use of finances from state-owned companies and entities linked to the Moroccan government. Despite these issues, the festival aims to present Morocco as a tolerant and open society. Nonetheless, some Moroccan politicians have criticized it for ostensibly promoting immoral behavior.

Over the years, Mawazine has significantly evolved, drawing millions of attendees and featuring performances across multiple stages. Unfortunately, the festival has also faced tragic incidents, such as a stampede in 2009 that resulted in casualties.

Despite these challenges, Mawazine continues to flourish, attracting top-tier international and Arab artists, and offering a platform for emerging talent through competitions like Generation Mawazine. With its eclectic mix of genres and performers, the festival has solidified its place as a major event on the global music festival calendar, providing unforgettable experiences for all attendees.