Marrakech International Film Festival (FIFM): What to Know Before You Go
What the Marrakech International Film Festival actually is, when it runs, and how to combine a festival trip with the rest of Marrakech.
Marrakech International Film Festival (FIFM): What to Know Before You Go
The Marrakech International Film Festival is one of the most established film events in Africa and the Arab world, drawing international directors, actors, and industry figures to the city for a week of screenings, red-carpet premieres, and industry events each year. The 23rd edition is set for November 20-28, 2026, presided over by Oscar-winning filmmaker Bong Joon-ho, with a selection of dozens of films from across the world. Screenings and events are spread across the city, with the Palais des Congrès typically serving as the main hub alongside other cinemas and outdoor venues — check the festival's official site closer to the dates for the confirmed venue list and program, since exact details are usually finalized only weeks in advance.
What the festival actually involves
Beyond the headline red-carpet events, FIFM runs a competition section for the Étoile d'Or (Golden Star), special screenings of premieres and restored classics, industry workshops for film professionals, and programming aimed at younger audiences. If you're planning around specific films or a red-carpet appearance, arrive well before the scheduled time — 30 minutes for regular screenings, 1-2 hours if you're hoping to catch a red-carpet moment, since access tightens fast as the crowd builds.
Making the most of a festival trip
Marrakech itself is worth building extra days around a festival visit, whether or not you managed to get into every screening you wanted. The medina's core landmarks — Jemaa el-Fnaa, the Koutoubia Mosque, Bahia Palace, the Saadian Tombs, Jardin Majorelle — are easily covered on foot or with a local guide, and the souks around Semmarine and the Ensemble Artisanal are worth a few hours regardless of festival timing. Accommodation during festival week fills up faster and pricier than usual across every tier, from riads to five-star hotels, so booking early matters more here than most other times of year. A few practical basics worth keeping in mind: dress modestly at religious sites, always ask before photographing people, and expect bargaining to be the norm in the souks rather than the exception.
If your trip extends beyond the city, a private day trip into the Atlas Mountains or out to the Sahara near Merzouga is a natural way to fill the days around the festival schedule rather than sitting in the city waiting for the next screening.
Want help planning day trips or a longer route around your festival visit? Contact us:
- Email: hello@merzougaway.com
- WhatsApp: +212675203319 / +212668534981
Sources:
MerzougaWay Team
We are a passionate team of local guides dedicated to sharing the beauty and culture of our home, Morocco. Our journey began with a simple desire to offer authentic, memorable experiences that go beyond the typical tourist trails.
