Dar Maalma Expo 2026: Casablanca at the Heart of African Craftsmanship, Culture, and Women’s Economic Empowerment

From June 25 to 28, 2026, Casablanca will host one of Africa’s most significant cultural and economic gatherings: the 17th edition of Dar Maalma Expo alongside the 4th African Women Artisans Congress, organized by the REFAM DAR MAALMA under the High Patronage of Mohammed VI.

Far beyond a traditional trade exhibition, this landmark event represents a strategic continental platform dedicated to cultural innovation, women’s entrepreneurship, and the economic transformation of traditional craftsmanship.

Over four days, Casablanca will become a meeting point for policymakers, investors, entrepreneurs, development institutions, and women artisans from across Africa—united by a shared ambition: positioning African craftsmanship as a driver of sustainable growth, cultural influence, and economic inclusion.

A New Vision for Africa’s Creative Economy

Against the backdrop of the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA), Dar Maalma Expo 2026 seeks to place women artisans at the center of Africa’s economic integration agenda while preserving the continent’s rich cultural identity.

The ambition extends far beyond celebrating heritage. It is about transforming traditional craftsmanship into a powerful engine of economic opportunity, entrepreneurship, innovation, and cross-border collaboration.

Throughout the congress, key discussions will focus on:

• strengthening African handicraft value chains;
• expanding access to international markets;
• advancing innovation within traditional industries;
• accelerating financial inclusion for women entrepreneurs;
• creating scalable support systems for artisan-led businesses.

This vision reflects a broader transformation: redefining African craftsmanship not only as cultural heritage, but as a strategic economic asset capable of competing in global markets while safeguarding ancestral knowledge.

The Dar Maalma Grand Caftan Show: Where Heritage Meets Contemporary Innovation

One of the most anticipated highlights of the event will be the Dar Maalma Grand Caftan Show, taking place on June 27 under the theme “The Thousand Colors of Africa.”

More than a fashion showcase, the event will celebrate centuries-old craftsmanship through contemporary creations that merge artistry, identity, and innovation.

The runway becomes a statement of cultural confidence—demonstrating how African fashion can evolve into both an instrument of cultural diplomacy and a fast-growing pillar of the continent’s creative economy.

Through craftsmanship, textile excellence, and storytelling, the caftan emerges as more than a garment: it becomes a symbol of legacy, sovereignty, and economic potential.

Why This Event Matters to Us 

At our company, we strongly believe the future of commerce is built on authenticity, craftsmanship, and meaningful impact.

Dar Maalma Expo embodies a vision we deeply share: empowering creators, preserving cultural heritage, and connecting artisanal excellence with modern consumer expectations through digital commerce, international visibility, and elevated customer experiences.

At a time when consumers increasingly seek purpose, traceability, and stories behind the products they buy, African craftsmanship represents a compelling response to evolving global demand.

This is not simply about products—it is about people, heritage, entrepreneurship, and long-term value creation.

A Continental Event Shaping the Future

By bringing together governments, institutions, investors, entrepreneurs, and women artisans, Dar Maalma Expo 2026 is positioning itself as a defining platform for the future of Africa’s creative industries.

From June 25 to 28, Casablanca will host a conversation of continental importance: one that celebrates women-led entrepreneurship, elevates African craftsmanship, and transforms cultural heritage into economic opportunity.

Because beyond the exhibition itself lies something much bigger—the vision of a more resilient, creative, and culturally confident Africa.

• Dates: June 25–28, 2026
• Location:  Mechouar Habous , 12 Rue Moulay Ismail, Casablanca 20550, Morocco
• Host: REFAM DAR MAALMA