01 Getting to Fez
Fly into Fez–Saïss Airport (FEZ) — it's the closest airport to the program and has good connections from most European cities. Most nationalities do not require a visa to enter Morocco, but we recommend confirming your country's specific requirements before booking.
From the airport, a program representative will meet you at an agreed meeting point communicated in advance. Your transfer to the accommodation is fully covered, no stress, no confusion.
Any issues on arrival?
A delay, a missed connection, anything — reach out directly to Amine Bennasser: +212 696 157 057 · admin@al-bassira.com. Please send us your arrival details before you land so we can be ready for you.
02 Where you will stay
You will stay in fully equipped, regularly cleaned apartments located in a safe and central area of Fez, just a 5-minute walk from the institute. Everything you need is right around the corner — supermarkets, pharmacies, local cafés.
All apartments come with high-speed Wi-Fi and air conditioning to keep you comfortable through the warm Moroccan summer. Accommodation is included in all packages as a shared room. If you prefer your own space, single rooms are available on request at an additional cost.
03 Meals & daily life
Meals are not included in the program, giving you freedom to explore Fez at your own pace. The city is full of incredible local restaurants, street food, and cafés right on your doorstep.
A few practical tips to help you settle in comfortably:
- If you have dietary restrictions or allergies, let us know before you arrive so we can guide you in the right direction.
- Always drink bottled water. Tap water in Morocco is not recommended for people who are not used to it.
- Start a course of stomach medicine or probiotics at least 3 days before arrival. Moroccan food is delicious but it is a big change for your digestive system — take it easy the first week.
04 Daily schedule & attendance
The program runs Monday to Friday, with mornings dedicated to language sessions and afternoons to lectures, seminars, and group discussions. On selected evenings, cultural activities and outings are organized as part of the program.
Attendance is mandatory for all academic sessions. This is an intensive program and every session builds on the last — showing up isn't just a rule, it's part of getting the most out of your experience.
05 Cultural activities & excursions
Learning at Al-Bassira doesn't stop when the classroom does. Throughout the program you will explore Fez through guided cultural visits, encounter local voices through guest speaker sessions, and get the chance to experience Morocco beyond the city through optional weekend excursions.
Whether you are walking through the ancient medina, listening to a guest speaker discuss contemporary MENA politics, or spending a weekend in the blue streets of Chefchaouen or the valleys of the Atlas — every experience is part of the learning. See all excursion details →
06 What is covered?
Your program includes accommodation in central Fez for the full four weeks, airport transfers on arrival and departure, your complete academic program, and all organized cultural activities.
A few things you will plan and budget for on your own: international flights, daily meals, personal expenses, optional weekend trips, and health insurance.
07 Health & insurance
Your well-being is important to us. Before traveling, please make sure you have valid health insurance that covers your entire stay in Morocco. This is required to participate.
If you have any medical conditions, allergies, or other health considerations, share them with us ahead of time. The more we know, the better we can support you during your stay.
08 Staying connected
As soon as you arrive, you will receive a local SIM card so you can stay connected from day one. Wi-Fi is also available both at your accommodation and at the institute throughout the program.
One thing we ask before you arrive: share the contact details of someone close to you — a family member or friend — as an emergency contact. A simple step that gives everyone peace of mind.
09 Preparing for your stay
Weather. Late August and September in Fez are typically warm and sunny — daytime temperatures range from 25°C to 38°C. Evenings are cooler and more comfortable, great for exploring the medina or relaxing at a café after a full day.
What to wear. For classes, comfortable and casual works well. For academic events or more formal occasions, smart casual is a good choice. Pack light breathable clothes for warm days, a few outfits appropriate for time around the city, and one or two slightly dressier options for special evenings.
A few cultural notes
Carry your passport or a copy when you are out. If photographing someone, a smile and asking permission first is always appreciated. For official buildings, police, or military areas, keep your camera tucked away. Fez is lively and modern, but public spaces are shared — being mindful of noise level and respectful in public interactions is simply part of being a thoughtful visitor anywhere.
10 Your commitment
Al-Bassira is something we build together. Like any meaningful experience, it becomes truly special when everyone shows up with intention and care. All we ask is that you stay engaged, complete the program, respect the schedule, and take part in the group activities we have thoughtfully put together.
What makes Al-Bassira stand out is not just what you will learn, but who you will learn it with. When everyone brings curiosity, openness, and a willingness to connect, the experience becomes something far more powerful than any single session.
So come as you are. Stay curious. Be kind and present with those around you. That is really all it takes.
