Spanish gambling giant CIRSA invests 50% stake in Morocco’s La Mamounia Casino
CIRSA strengthens its Moroccan footprint with La Mamounia Casino, signalling rising investment in Africa’s luxury gambling market.
Morocco.- Spanish gambling giant CIRSA has invested in a 50 per cent stake of Morocco’s prestigious Grand Casino de La Mamounia, marking a major step in its expansion into North Africa. The move underscores Morocco’s growing role as a hub for luxury gaming tourism in Africa.
CIRSA, a leading gaming and entertainment group operating casinos, slot machines, bingo halls and online gambling and sports betting platforms across Spain and Latin America, is now expanding into Morocco and broader Africa.
The Grand Casino de La Mamounia is located on the grounds of the historic five-star Hotel La Mamounia in Marrakech, consistently ranked among the world’s top deluxe hotels. The acquisition, announced in a CIRSA press release, was made through its subsidiary CIRSA International Business Corporation.
CIRSA highlighted the casino’s luxury positioning in its announcement, stating: “The Grand Casino de La Mamounia is an international reference in the sector in terms of luxury and exclusivity, which will be preserved and further enhanced in the future.”
Alongside its expansion, CIRSA indicated the purchase would not place pressure on its finances. “The transaction will be financed with available cash. Based on current estimates, its impact on CIRSA Group’s pro forma leverage is not expected to be significant,” said CIRSA.
The company also confirmed there will be no changes to the casino’s day-to-day operations, adding that “the current management team of the casino will stay in place”.
Expanding presence in Morocco
With this deal, CIRSA is expanding its presence in Tangier, Agadir and Marrakech. The company now operates four casinos across Morocco: the Grand Casino de Tangier (since 2022), two casino complexes in Agadir (since 2016) and the latest addition in Marrakech. CIRSA described the move as part of a selective growth strategy, reaffirming its long-term commitment to Morocco.
Industry analysts view the acquisition as a positive signal for African casinos, highlighting the continent’s appeal to international operators in regulated markets.
La Mamounia Casino is expected to offer enhanced gaming and entertainment experiences, further establishing Marrakech as a prime destination for tourism and leisure. Strategic investments like this demonstrate how international expertise and African hospitality can combine to create a thriving, globally competitive gaming sector.
As Morocco and other North African hubs continue to attract investment, La Mamounia serves as a benchmark for luxury casino growth in Africa, illustrating the continent’s potential for tourism, innovation and premium gaming development, with CIRSA’s investment serving as a key example.
