Things to do in Oujda
Things To Do in Oujda
Discover the best Things to do in Oujda! From historic gates & vibrant souks to Saidia beach & oases. A Casablancan blogger's insider guide.
There's something uniquely captivating about Oujda that keeps drawing me back. I've visited this eastern city twice now, and each time, I've discovered new layers to its rich tapestry of culture, history, and natural beauty.
Let me take you through the unforgettable experiences that await in this often-overlooked Moroccan treasure.
1. Inside the City: Where History Whispers Through Every Corner
1. Bab Sidi Abdelwahad: The Amber Gateway
My first encounter with Bab Sidi Abdelwahad took my breath away. Standing before this magnificent city gate on the eastern edge of Oujda, I was mesmerized by its stunning amber hue that seemed to glow differently depending on the time of day.
During my morning visit, the sunlight danced across its intricate architectural details—carved archways, geometric patterns, and weathered stonework that spoke of centuries past.
What makes this gate particularly special is the expansive esplanade stretching before it. I spent nearly an hour just watching the ebb and flow of daily life as locals crossed this vital junction.
It's more than just a historical monument; it's a living, breathing part of the city's heartbeat.
While Bab Sidi Abdelwahad remains my favorite, Oujda boasts other impressive gates including Bab El Gharbi, Bab Ouled Amran, Bab Sidi Aïssa, and Bab Al Jamai—each with its own story to tell.
2. Wandering Through the Medina and Souk
If you're looking for authentic things to do in Oujda, losing yourself in the medina and souk should top your list.
During my visits, I always surrendered to the maze-like alleyways without worrying about direction, and that's when the magic truly happened.
The souk bursts with sensory delights—pyramids of jewel-toned spices, the metallic symphony of coppersmith hammers, the sweet aroma of fresh mint mingling with leather and wood.
I haggled for handwoven textiles, sipped mint tea with shopkeepers who became friends, and discovered traditional crafts I'd never seen in Casablanca's more touristy markets.
The vendors here are genuine, their smiles warm, and their stories endless.
3. Maison Dar Sebti: A Colonial Time Capsule
Maison Dar Sebti stands as one of Oujda's hidden architectural jewels. This beautifully preserved colonial-era mansion transported me to the early 20th century with its elegant French-Moroccan fusion design.
The ornate tilework, carved wooden ceilings, and vintage furnishings create an intimate museum experience.
What struck me most was how this house tells the story of Oujda's multicultural past—where French colonial influence met Moroccan tradition.
I spent a quiet afternoon photographing the intricate details and imagining the lives once lived within these walls.
4. Things to do in Oujda: visit Lalla Meryem Park, An Urban Oasis
Just opposite Maison Dar Sebti lies Lalla Meryem Park, and the contrast couldn't be more perfect.
After exploring the historic mansion, I crossed the street to find this verdant sanctuary where families picnic, children play, and joggers complete their evening circuits.
The park offers a peaceful respite from the city's energy.
I found a shaded bench beneath towering trees and simply observed Oujdi life unfold around me—couples strolling hand-in-hand, elderly men engaged in animated chess matches, and vendors selling roasted corn and fresh fruit juice.
It's these simple moments that reveal a city's soul.
5. The Al Kabir Mosque and Its Three Fountains
Though non-Muslims cannot enter, the Al Kabir Mosque commands admiration from its exterior alone.
The three ornate fountains positioned outside serve both practical and aesthetic purposes, their gentle splashing creating a serene soundtrack to the surrounding plaza.
I visited during prayer time and witnessed the beautiful convergence of the faithful.
The mosque's minaret rises gracefully above the medina, and during my evening walks, I heard the call to prayer echo through the narrow streets—a sound that never fails to move me, even as someone who's heard it countless times in Casablanca.
2. Outside the City: Natural Wonders Await
1. The Oasis of Sidi Yahya: A Desert Mirage
During my first visit, I hired a grand taxi and arrived to find this lush palm grove seemingly defying the surrounding arid landscape.
I strolled beside the old irrigation canals that have sustained the area for generations, observed local farmers caring for their date palm groves, and immediately noticed how much cooler it felt under the shaded canopy.
I stopped at a cozy café to sip authentic Moroccan tea, relaxing to the gentle sounds of birds tucked away in the palm leaves.
The oasis represents the ingenuity of desert communities and offers phenomenal photography opportunities—the play of light through palm leaves created patterns I'll never forget.
2. Things to do in Oujda - go round Sidi Maâfa Forest Where the City Breathes
For nature lovers seeking things to do in Oujda, the Sidi Maâfa Forest provides the perfect escape.
Located just south of the city, this forested area offers hiking trails, picnic spots, and panoramic views of Oujda spreading below.
I ventured here on a crisp morning during my second trip, following trails through Mediterranean vegetation and encountering local families enjoying weekend barbecues.
The higher you climb, the more spectacular the vistas become. I could see the city's white buildings contrasting against the surrounding landscape, and in the distance, the mountains marking the Algerian border.
The forest is particularly magical during spring when wildflowers carpet the ground, though even in other seasons, the fresh air and natural beauty provide wonderful rejuvenation.
3. Saidia Beach: The Blue Pearl
No exploration of things to do in Oujda would be complete without a trip to Saidia Beach, just sixty kilometers north.
This Mediterranean coastline, often called Morocco's "Blue Pearl," exceeded every expectation I had.
The beach stretches for fourteen kilometers of golden sand meeting impossibly blue water.
During my visit, I spent an entire day here—swimming in the warm Mediterranean, walking along the modern marina, and indulging in fresh seafood at beachfront restaurants.
The grilled sardines, still sizzling and dressed with chermoula, rank among the best I've eaten in that beautiful city.
Saidia has developed significantly with resort complexes and a golf course, yet it maintains an authentic Moroccan beach town charm.
I watched fishermen mend their nets, children build sandcastles, and the sun paint the sky in shades of orange and pink as it set over the sea.
Beyond simply soaking up the sun on Saidia's pristine shores, I discovered a playground of activities that cater to every type of traveler.
The beach offers excellent conditions for water sports—I tried jet skiing across the turquoise Mediterranean waters, feeling the spray on my face as I sped along the coastline.
For those seeking calmer pursuits, paddleboarding and kayaking are available, allowing you to explore the coastline at your own pace while spotting colorful fish in the crystal-clear shallows.
The Saidia Marina, with its modern promenade lined with cafes and boutiques, becomes a vibrant hub in the evenings where I joined locals and visitors for leisurely strolls, indulged in Italian gelato, and watched luxury yachts bob gently in their berths.
Golf enthusiasts will appreciate the championship course overlooking the sea, while families can enjoy the water park that keeps children entertained for hours.
As evening approached, I joined a beachside horseback riding excursion along the shoreline—the feeling of galloping through shallow waves as the sun set behind us remains one of my most cherished Moroccan memories.
3. Practical Tips from a Fellow Moroccan Traveler
Having visited Oujda twice, I've gathered insights that might help fellow travelers:
Getting There: From Casablanca, I took the train, which offers a comfortable overnight option. The journey reveals Morocco's diverse landscapes—from the Atlantic coast through the Middle Atlas mountains to the eastern plains.
Best Time to Visit: The ideal time to visit is during spring, from March to May, and autumn, from September to November, when the weather is most pleasant.
Summer temperatures can become extremely hot, whereas winter is generally mild but often brings some rain.
Where to Stay: The city center keeps you close to major attractions, while newer hotels near Lalla Meryem Park offer modern amenities.
Local Cuisine: Don't miss Karantika (a chickpea flan unique to the region) and the incredibly flavorful mechoui. You can also enjoy famous Moroccan dishes that are characteristic of all Moroccan cities, such as tagine, couscous, and Moroccan pastilla, etc.
Language: While Arabic and French work throughout the city, I found locals particularly appreciative when I attempted some English language.
Why Oujda Deserves Your Attention
As someone who's traveled extensively across Morocco, I'll admit that Oujda doesn't possess the immediate glamour of Marrakech or the blue-washed fame of Chefchaouen.
But that's precisely its charm. This city rewards curious travelers who venture beyond Morocco's well-trodden tourist paths.
The things to do in Oujda range from historical exploration to natural adventures, from cultural immersion to simple relaxation.
It's a city where you can photograph a centuries-old gate in the morning, hike through forests by afternoon, and dip your toes in the Mediterranean by evening.
What touched me most about Oujda was the genuine warmth of its people.
Perhaps because they see fewer tourists, locals seemed especially eager to share their city's stories, recommend their favorite spots, and ensure I experienced authentic Oujdi hospitality.
My two visits to Oujda have left me longing for a third. There are still neighborhoods I haven't explored, dishes I haven't tasted, and stories I haven't heard.
For my fellow Moroccans in Casablanca or elsewhere, I encourage you to discover this eastern treasure.
And for international visitors, Oujda offers a glimpse of Morocco that few outsiders ever witness—genuine, unhurried, and utterly captivating.
The city stands as a bridge between cultures, climates, and histories.
It's where the desert meets the sea, where Moroccan tradition encounters Algerian influence, where ancient gates open onto modern boulevards.
In Oujda, you won't just tick off tourist attractions—you'll experience a living, breathing Moroccan city in all its authentic complexity.
So pack your bags, bring your curiosity, and prepare to fall in love with Morocco's overlooked eastern gem. Trust me, you'll understand why I keep returning.
Maghrebista
I'm a Moroccan travel blogger with a deep passion for discovering the hidden beauty of my country. From majestic landscapes and traditional villages to cultural heritage and authentic cuisine, I love exploring places that many overlook. My goal is to shine a light on Morocco’s lesser-known wonders and share their unique stories with the world. Through Maghrebista, I aim to introduce you to the real Morocco—its rich traditions, vibrant culture, and the timeless charm of its people and crafts. Whether you're curious about travel, history, or Moroccan lifestyle, this blog is your guide to uncovering the soul of the Maghreb.
