Recognized for its exemplary restoration and architectural heritage, Riad El Amine Fès has joined the prestigious circle of Historic Hotels Worldwide.
Riad El Amine Fès has just received international recognition. Located in the heart of the old medina of Fez, this 19th-century Arabo-Andalusian gem has officially been inducted into the Historic Hotels Worldwide network—a rare distinction that honors iconic historic properties across the globe. This prestigious label, affiliated with the U.S. National Trust for Historic Preservation, celebrates hotels that have preserved their authenticity while offering a high-end hospitality experience.
With this distinction, Riad El Amine joins more than 320 establishments across 47 countries, each selected based on rigorous criteria: a minimum age of 75 years, proven historical value, and a significant contribution to cultural heritage. For Fez, this recognition further strengthens its international standing as a major cultural destination, true to its millennia-old heritage.
Once the cherished home of a Fassi family, Riad El Amine is the result of a meticulous four-year restoration led by the finest artisans of Fez. Original zellige mosaics, hand-carved cedarwood, delicately chiseled stucco, and hand-painted ceilings—every detail has been faithfully preserved to offer visitors an authentic immersion in Morocco’s traditional art of living. Today, the establishment embodies a rare harmony between living heritage and refined hospitality.
“Historic Hotels Worldwide is honored to induct Riad El Amine Fès, a masterpiece of Moroccan architectural heritage,” said Lawrence Horwitz. The Executive Vice President of Historic Hotels of America and Historic Hotels Worldwide especially praised “the preservation work carried out by Mhammed Yassir Jawhar and his team, which allows future generations to discover this unique place.” This global recognition highlights the conservation efforts undertaken since the riad reopened in 2007.
“This is a major recognition of our commitment to preserving the soul of this place,” added Amine Jawhar, General Manager of Riad El Amine Fès. “This riad is not just a place to stay, it is a sensory and cultural experience, a tribute to the history of Fez.” By joining this select circle of member hotels, Riad El Amine positions itself as an ambassador of Moroccan craftsmanship on the global tourism stage.
Located near the UNESCO-listed Medina, the Mellah (Jewish Quarter), and Al Quaraouiyine University—the oldest continuously operating university in the world—Riad El Amine is an ideal starting point for exploring the treasures of Morocco’s spiritual capital.
