HOW IT BEGAN
El Fenn opened its doors in 2004 with six bedrooms housed in a large historic riad. The exquisite craftsmanship of Morocco - tadelakt, zellige tiling, intricately hand-carved cedar and plasterwork, plus marble tiling - were blended with more modern elements such as mid-century furniture and contemporary art to create the hotel’s innovative style. Striking colour was also a key part of the mix and El Fenn soon gained a cult following, drawn by the combination of its creative and peaceful world just steps away from the energy of the Marrakech medina.
Continued evolution
Over the next three years, the hotel expanded into neighbouring properties with the addition of new bedrooms and suites, plus a bar, restaurant and performance space that was key to the cultural links we had forged with artists, writers and creatives. Co-owner Vanessa Branson had founded the Marrakech Biennale in 2005 and the event ran for six editions - with an increasing focus on artists from Africa, the Middle East and its diasporas. Thousands of art enthusiasts, as well as curators and collectors from all over the world, attended the events. Today our art collection features work by contemporary artists from all over the world with a particular focus on Moroccan and African art.
In 2017, original co-owners Vanessa Branson and Howell James were joined by artist & designer Madeline Weinrib and former ABC Carpet & Home president Graham Head, who also became co-owners of the hotel. Together they spearheaded the next phase of El Fenn’s evolution and today the hotel has 41 bedrooms and suites housed in 13 interconnected buildings over a two-acre site.
TRADITION BLENDED WITH MODERNITY
Old traditions and new innovation have always been at the heart of El Fenn. The hospitality of our team is warm and generous, everything from our food to furniture are locally sourced, and thousands of craftsmen and women have worked on our interiors over the years, hand making every element. But over the years, we’ve also added modern amenities to the hotel including pools, a spa and large boutique to honour our spirit of authentic luxury.
El Fenn has been described as ‘Instagram gold’ by Architectural Digest and featured on the pages of magazines including Vogue and Harper’s Bazaar. We’ve also been named in the 15 best hotels in Africa on Conde Nast Traveler’s Reader’s Choice Awards five times - including 2024 and 2025 - and featured on Conde Nast Traveler’s Gold List four times, most recently 2024.
The Present
In November 2025, El Fenn entered a new chapter when it joined Akan, the growing collection of boutique hotels created by the Benabbés-Taarji family, whose roots in Marrakech stretch back five generations. Under this proudly Moroccan ownership, El Fenn now sits alongside two other landmark properties: La Villa des Orangers, a Relais & Châteaux jewel by the gates of the Medina and Les Deux Tours, a lush retreat in the Palmeraie. Three of the city’s most iconic addresses are united under one visionary banner, each retaining its singular personality yet sharing Akan’s deep commitment to heritage, tradition and luxury with soul.
Vanessa Branson, founder of El Fenn shares her thoughts on handing over the baton to the Benabbés-Taarji family. “Playing a part in El Fenn's evolution, from its humble beginnings back in 2002 to the landmark hotel that it is today, has been both a privilege and the biggest adventure of my life. The Benabbés-Taarji family understands the magic ingredients that drive El Fenn. With their years of hospitality expertise and their cultural sensitivity, it is a joy to know that this remarkable story is embarking on yet another great chapter.”
“For us, El Fenn is not just an ordinary business transaction, it is a heartfelt transfer,” says Youssef Benabbés-Taarji. “The medina is part of our family’s DNA and El Fenn embodies hospitality, art, and reverence for Moroccan culture. What has been created is unique, and we are committed to preserving the soul of El Fenn - authentic hospitality that deeply respects heritage and people.”
As El Fenn begins this new chapter, its essence remains unchanged: a beacon of culture, creativity, and craftsmanship in the heart of Marrakech.
Our Ethos
We're all about luxury with authenticity. Find out more about what makes us tick and our three core values: community, authenticity and sustainability.
Message us
Just a 5-minute stroll from Jemaa El Fna or take a taxi direct to our door, we are perfectly situated wherever you may be in the city. If you want to drop in for drinks or a bite to eat, get in touch to book a table.
