Morocco stands as a unique frontier for the expansion of snow polo, blending its deep-seated equestrian heritage with its diverse geography. While traditionally a sport of the Alps, the potential for snow polo in the High Atlas Mountains —specifically in Khenefra — offers a compelling vision for the future of Moroccan sports tourism.
Hence the idea of creating “The International Snow Polo of AJDIR” by Mr Hicham Bekkar the owner of AJDIR Polo Club introduces a spectacular fusion of elite equestrian sport and winter lifestyle.
The event unfolds within a breathtaking panoramic setting overlooking the iconic cedar forest, offering a natural stage of rare beauty. Against a backdrop of snow-covered landscapes, this pioneering experience combines athletic excellence, elegance, and exclusivity.
Designed to attract international players, luxury brands, and high-end tourism, “The International Snow Polo of AJDIR “ positions Khenifra as the first snow polo destination in Morocco, North Africa and Middle east. Beyond sport, the event serves as a premium platform for brand visibility, media exposure, and destination marketing, while promoting equestrian culture and sustainable mountain tourism.
- Strategic Geographic Advantage
Morocco is home to the highest ski resorts in Africa. Michelifen , situated at 2,060m and only a short drive from Fez or Ifran “The Little Switzerland” , provides a stunning alpine backdrop that could rival the scenic beauty of St. Moritz. This proximity to a world-class tourism hub allows for a seamless “Sand and Snow” luxury experience, where guests can enjoy the bustling Medina of Fez in the morning and a prestigious polo match on snow by afternoon.
- Leveraging a Rich Equestrian Tradition
Horses are central to Moroccan culture, from the traditional Tbourida to professional polo clubs like “Souissi club” in Rabat. The transition to snow polo would not be a leap into the unknown, but rather an innovative adaptation of an existing passion. Morocco already possesses the infrastructure for world-class horse training and a pool of talented players who could easily adapt to the nuances of the winter game.
- A Catalyst for High-End Tourism
As Morocco aims to attract 26 million tourists by 2030, diversifying its offerings is key. A “The International Snow Polo of AJDIR “ would act as a magnet for the international “jet-set,” similar to the Snow Polo World Cup St. Moritz. Such events bring significant media exposure and high-spending visitors, boosting the local economy and positioning the Atlas Mountains as a sophisticated winter destination beyond traditional skiing.
4. Alignment with National Vision
With the 2030 FIFA World Cup on the horizon, Morocco is rapidly upgrading its infrastructure and seeking disruptive tourism concepts. Snow polo fits perfectly into this roadmap, offering a sustainable yet glamorous sporting event that highlights the country’s environmental diversity and organizational capacity.
In conclusion, snow polo in Morocco is more than just a sport; it is an opportunity to redefine African luxury and showcase the Kingdom’s ability to host world-class events in even the most unexpected landscapes.
