As Morocco prepares to host the Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) 2025 from 21 December 2025 to 18 January 2026, attention is turning to the atmosphere expected in the six host cities. While the football matches will be central to the event, the broader environment surrounding stadiums, public squares, markets, and waterfronts is likely to shape the experience for many supporters.
Moroccan authorities and local communities are now coordinating cultural spaces and public gatherings that will run alongside the tournament schedule.
Unlike sporting events centered on one metropolitan area, AFCON 2025 will be distributed across Rabat, Casablanca, Marrakech, Tangier, Agadir, and Fez. Each city has its own rhythm and setting, which means visitors will encounter different styles of public life as they move between matches or stay within one region.
The positioning of stadiums relative to these urban centers will play a role in how visitors circulate. Many supporters may spend more time in city streets and public gathering points than inside stadiums themselves.
Local authorities have confirmed that fan zones will be established in each host city. These zones are intended to offer controlled, accessible locations for supporters to watch matches on large screens. They will be managed with security oversight and crowd movement planning, but designed to feel open and social rather than restricted.
While full layouts have not yet been published, the current planning framework suggests that fan zones will:
These zones are not intended as secondary stadiums. They are designed as shared spaces, where visitors and local residents may gather without requiring match tickets. In many cities, they are expected to become evening meeting points after matches conclude.
The final draw ceremony held in Rabat earlier this year provided a preview of the cultural direction being planned. Performances from Moroccan and African musicians reflected both regional heritage and contemporary styles.
Organizers have stated that the opening and closing ceremonies will continue this approach, using music and staging to highlight shared identity across the continent. Names of performers for those ceremonies have not yet been released.
In addition to planned events, many cultural experiences during the tournament will come from spontaneous public gatherings, open-air cafés, and everyday street activity.
In cities like Marrakech and Fez, visitors may encounter traditional music groups, craft markets, and small food vendors. In coastal cities such as Tangier and Agadir, evening activity often shifts toward waterfront areas, where cafés and open plazas may become informal viewing spots.
The atmosphere will likely vary depending on match results, national team performance, and time of day. Late-day matches are expected to draw larger crowds in outdoor public areas.
For many visitors, the experience of AFCON 2025 will extend beyond the stadium gates. City markets, transport hubs, and public squares will play a significant role in shaping how supporters remember the event.
Travelers should expect:
While these environments are expected to be energetic, visitors should remain aware of their surroundings, especially in dense areas. Carrying essential items securely and staying attentive to personal belongings is advisable in all crowded urban spaces.
AFCON 2025 will be more than a tournament to watch from inside the stadium. For supporters considering travel, being prepared for active city environments, shared celebrations, and high public gathering turnout will allow for a more comfortable and informed visit.
As the event approaches, tickets are selling at an unprecedented rate. Bookings will run through the new Yalla app, which launched on 25 September 2025.
During the first ticket release on 13 October 2025, over 250,000 seats were purchased by fans from 135 countries, with further sales phases scheduled through October and November. All spectators will be required to download Yalla and obtain a Fan ID. The Fan ID will be needed for entry into stadiums and official fan zones.
Before purchasing tickets, fans must also show they have an approved visa, which can be obtained conveniently via the Morocco eVisa portal.
AFCON 2025 is expected to be a period of increased street activity, with a noticeable presence of security staff and public service teams. Travelers should:
Respect for local customs and public safety rules will help maintain a positive environment for all attendees. Visitors unfamiliar with Morocco’s cultural context may find it valuable to learn basic greetings and awareness of prayer times, which shape urban rhythm in many districts.
Step1: Complete the online application by entering your passport details.
Step2: Make the payment online using a credit card.
Step3: Check your email for the payment confirmation and receive your e-visa.
