Unibet Open Marrakech 2026 : le visuel du festival.

Jeudi 24 septembre

unibet.fr unibet.com

Le Palace Es Saadi dans son parc, à Marrakech.

casino@essaadi.com

+212 660 210 806

WhatsApp

Rue Ibrahim El Mazini · Hivernage
Marrakech 40000, Maroc

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Buy-in
Late reg
Add-on
Bounty
Day 2
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Before, during, after

Frequently asked questions

Everything a player wonders about before coming, sorted by moment. If your question isn't here, write to us.

Also searches the schedule, the packages and the hotels. Typos are tolerated.

When does the festival take place?

From Thursday 24 September to Sunday 4 October 2026, at the Casino de Marrakech in the Hivernage district. It is the 68th edition of the international tournament.

How many tournaments are on the schedule?

31 numbered tournaments, across 48 starts over eleven days. Day 2s and Final Days are continuations, not new events.

Which is the Main Event?

The Unibet Open Main Event (#17), at 12,000 MAD (€1,126). Four starting flights: 30 September at 12:00 and 21:30, 1 October at 12:00 and 21:30. Day 2 on 2 October, Day 3 on the 3rd, final table on 4 October at 16:00.

Which is the cheapest event? The most expensive?

The cheapest is Flash to UDSO (#06) at 800 MAD (€75), on 26 September at 18:00. The most expensive is the Unibet Super High Roller (#30) at 25,000 MAD (€2,346), on 4 October at 14:00.

Can I qualify through a satellite?

Yes. Twelve satellites are scheduled, from 800 MAD, feeding the UDSO, the Main Event, the High Roller and the Super High Roller. There is one almost every evening.

How late can I register?

Late registration is listed event by event in the schedule: from 1 level for Flash to UDSO up to 13 levels for the Main Event and the PKO 6-Max. Most events allow 8 levels.

Is there cash game during the festival?

Yes, every day from 18:00 to 08:00. Sixteen tables in No Limit Hold'em and Pot Limit Omaha, blinds from 25/50 MAD (€2.5/5), minimum buy-in 1,000 MAD (€100).

What currency do I pay in?

In Moroccan dirhams (MAD). The euro prices shown on the site are indicative, converted at roughly 10.64 MAD to €1.

Where can I stay?

Four hotels are offered: the Palace Es Saadi (4,100 MAD a night), the Hotel Es Saadi (2,800), the Hotel El Andalous (1,070) and the Hotel Kennedy (1,020). The Palace and the Hotel Es Saadi are in the same resort as the tournament room.

What does a package include?

Hotel nights with breakfast, plus the buy-ins of the listed events. Five packages, from 4 to 12 nights, from 16,080 MAD (€1,510) to 70,900 MAD (€6,665) depending on hotel and events included.

Where is the casino?

Rue Ibrahim El Mazini, in the Hivernage district, Marrakech 40000, inside the Es Saadi resort. Marrakech-Menara airport is about ten minutes away by car.

Do I need a passport to travel to Marrakech? Is an identity card enough?

A valid passport is ESSENTIAL to enter Morocco. A national identity card is not sufficient. French, Belgian and Swiss nationals do not need a visa for a tourist stay of less than 90 days.

Does my passport need to have a minimum period of validity?

It is generally recommended to have a passport valid for at least 6 months after the planned return date. Please check this with your travel agency or the consulate, as rules may change.

Do I need a specific visa to come and play a poker tournament?

No, a standard tourist visa (or a visa exemption depending on your nationality) is sufficient. There is no special status linked to the practice of poker.

What is the time difference with France?

This may vary depending on the time of year. As Morocco does not follow the same clock change calendar as Europe, there can be a difference of between 0h and 2h with the Europe zone. Please check the exact time difference around 24 September to 4 October 2026.

What is the weather like in Marrakech in late September / early October?

This is a pleasant time of year: days still warm (around 25-32°C) and cooler evenings. Bring light clothing for the day and a light jacket for the evening, particularly on terraces or by the pool.

Do I need an electrical adapter?

No, not in most cases: Morocco uses type C/E sockets (European standard) and a voltage of 220V, compatible with French/Belgian/Swiss equipment.

What language is spoken in Marrakech? Is French enough?

The official languages are Arabic and Berber (Tamazight), but French is very widely spoken, particularly in hospitality, business and within the casino. English is also widespread.

Is travel insurance required?

It is not compulsory, but strongly recommended, notably for medical costs and possible repatriation. Check whether your bank card already includes this type of cover.

Do I need any particular vaccinations to travel to Morocco?

No mandatory vaccination is required to enter Morocco from Europe. It is always advisable to be up to date with your universal vaccinations (DTP).

What budget should be planned for a stay of a few days at the festival?

It depends on the buy-in level and the hotel chosen: return flight from France around 250-300€. The Resort Es Saadi offers accommodation from 200€. 3-4 star hotels nearby between 40 and 100 €/night, very affordable meals outside the Resort (5 to 15 €). The Resort itself is positioned as high end.

May I drink alcohol in Marrakech?

Yes, alcohol consumption is permitted for tourists in hotels, bars and the casino, but it is prohibited in public places outside these establishments.

How do I get from Marrakech Airport (RAK) to the Es Saadi Marrakech Resort?

The simplest way is by taxi. Allow around 15-20 minutes (150-200 MAD, that is 15-20€) for the journey between Marrakech-Ménara airport and the Hivernage district where the Resort is located.

Do you need to negotiate the taxi fare from the airport?

It is strongly advised to confirm the price with the driver before departure. A journey from the airport to the city centre should not cost more than around 150 MAD by petit taxi.

And for a trip from the Resort to the city centre, how does that work?

Small taxis are fitted with a meter (practical and reliable), while large taxis generally charge around 50 MAD for this type of journey.

Are there ride hailing apps in Marrakech (like Uber)?

The availability of ride-hailing services in Morocco varies and changes regularly; some international apps may not be operational in Marrakech. The taxi remains the simplest and most widespread solution.

What is the minimum age to play poker and enter the casino?

18 years old, as in Morocco for the legal age of majority. A piece of identification (passport) will systematically be requested at the entrance to the casino.

How do I get my Casino de Marrakech membership card?

It is free and essential in order to play (tournaments, cash game, slot machines, table games). It is created at one of the casino's reception desks upon simple presentation of your passport. Online pre-registration is sometimes offered before the festival to speed up the process.

What happens if I lose my membership card during my stay?

Nothing dramatic: present yourself at the casino reception with your passport, a new card can be issued to you.

What dress code is expected at the casino?

Appropriate attire is required (no swimwear, flip-flops or shorts in the gaming rooms in the evening). During the day, more casual attire is generally tolerated for tournaments; in the evening, smarter attire is recommended in the traditional gaming lounges.

Can I enter the casino with my children?

No, access to the casino is strictly reserved for adults (18 years and over), including to accompany a parent.

I am coming with a friend who does not play poker, can he accompany me into the casino?

A companion can generally enter the common areas of the casino (bars, restaurant, cash game area) with their passport and a membership card, but access to the tournament room may be limited to registered players depending on the zones.

Should I get dirhams before I leave?

This is not necessary, and it is generally impossible anyway: the Moroccan dirham (MAD) is a currency that is not convertible outside Morocco. You will change money once on site.

What is the approximate exchange rate for Euro / Dirham?

The rate has been stable for several years around 10,5 to 11 MAD per 1 €, an exchange commission slightly altering this rate in practice. Check the exact rate as the festival approaches.

Where can I exchange money on arriving in Marrakech?

Several currency exchange offices are located at the airport (rates generally less favourable), and within the Es Saadi Resort itself: at the casino entrance, at the hotel reception and at the Palace reception.

Is there a more practical solution than changing money for every registration?

Yes: the casino card can be used as an electronic wallet. You "top it up" in dirhams with a single card payment at the desk, then use it to register for all tournaments without having to take out your bank card every time.

Can I pay directly by card at the tournament cash desks?

Yes, this is possible, just like payment in cash (dirhams) or with casino chips. This direct method is generally a little more costly (foreign banking fees) than the prepaid casino card. You can also use Apple Pay.

What means of payment are accepted at the Casino de Marrakech?

In dirhams, cash or by card, Apple Pay is possible. You can also make a transfer to the Casino (2 to 3 weeks before the start of the festival) or use Luxon as a means of payment.

Will my bank card work in Morocco?

Yes, Visa and Mastercard cards are widely accepted, particularly within the Resort. Let your bank know about your trip and check your limits abroad before you leave.

Is it forbidden to exchange currency between players?

Yes, this is strictly forbidden within the casino. Any exchange must obligatorily go through official channels (casino bank, bank transfer, card payment).

Can you get a summary of all your registrations/expenses at the festival?

Yes, a receipt can be issued on simple request at one of the festival's cash desks, by providing your email address.

Are there cash machines (ATMs) on site?

Yes, several cash machines are generally available in the Hivernage district and near the Resort. Please check the fees applied by your bank for withdrawals abroad.

What are the exact dates of the Unibet Poker Open Marrakech 2026 festival?

The festival runs from 24 September to 4 October 2026, eleven days of poker, in two parts: the Unibet DeepStack Open (UDSO) from 24 to 29 September, then the Unibet Open proper from 30 September to 4 October.

Do I need to register for the tournaments in advance, or can I do it on site?

Both are possible. Online pre-registration is generally offered before the festival, and dedicated cashier desks will be open on site throughout the festival, located in the immediate vicinity of the main tournament room.

How can I qualify for the Main Event?

Two main routes: online satellites organised by the operator before the festival, and live satellites organised directly in Marrakech during the festival. Check the qualification schedule for the exact dates of the 2026 edition.

I missed the online satellites, can I still qualify on site?

Yes, live satellites are generally organised in Marrakech itself, in particular for the Main Event and the High Rollers, in the days preceding these tournaments.

I have won an online satellite, what should I do next?

You will normally be contacted automatically by email just after your win by the Unibet team. Please fill in the registration form provided promptly, before the stated deadline. Remember to check your spam folder.

I have qualified but I can no longer come: can I be refunded?

No, as a general rule, a ticket won via a satellite is not refundable if you are unable to attend the festival. Please check your availability carefully before attempting a qualification. In case of a particular problem, please enquire with the online gaming site.

Can I get a refund on a paid entry if I have to cancel my participation in a tournament?

This is sometimes possible if you let us know before the start of the tournament, but part of the amount may be withheld to cover any administrative fees. The refund is immediate if payment was made in cash, and within a few days via bank card.

Can I use my online bankroll (site pot) to pay for a registration on site?

In general, no: on site registrations must be settled in dirhams, by bank card or via the casino card. Some operators allow you to convert loyalty points into a buy-in for the Main Event via their VIP shop.

What are the flagship tournaments of the festival?

The schedule notably includes a Main Event UDSO (buy-in around 6 000 MAD), a High Roller (around 16 000 MAD), a Main Event Unibet Open (around 12 000 MAD, with several qualifying flights), as well as a Monster Stack and a Super High Roller.

Where can I check the precise structures of each tournament?

The full structures are generally available on the festival's official website www.marrakechpoker.com.

What rules apply during the tournaments?

The rules of the TDA (Tournament Directors Association), or rules largely inspired by them, are applied by the officials, the standard across the vast majority of live festivals.

Will there be side events and low buy-in tournaments for players with a limited budget?

Yes, most festivals of this type offer a wide range of side events (Monster Stack, turbo, ladies event, etc.) at buy-ins more accessible than the Main Event.

What are the blinds offered in cash game during the festival?

A wide range is generally available: daily tables starting at 25/50 MAD in No-Limit Hold'em and PLO, up to higher stakes tables (sometimes 500/1000 MAD).

Is there streaming or coverage of the festival for those who cannot travel?

Yes: continuous written coverage in French and English as well as a live stream of the final table (cards visible, commentated by experts) are offered on the operator's platforms. Check the official channels announced for the 2026 edition (Youtube, Twitch, FB live).

Is the Casino de Marrakech a “real” casino with other games besides poker?

Yes. Founded in 1952, it is historically the first casino in Africa. Besides the poker tournament rooms, there are slot machines, traditional games tables (roulette, black jack, etc.) and cash game rooms.

What time does the casino open and close during the festival?

Opening hours are generally extended during the festival, with openings from midday and operation that can run up to 24h/24 on high attendance days. Check the precise schedule published for the 2026 edition.

Is the casino open every day during the eleven days of the festival?

Normally yes, without interruption throughout the festival, with opening hours that may vary from one day to another depending on the tournaments scheduled.

Can I play the slot machines or table games between two poker tournaments?

Yes, your casino membership card gives you access to the whole gaming offer at the Casino de Marrakech, not just poker.

Is there a VIP lounge at the casino?

Yes, a dedicated space or privileged services are generally offered to high stakes players and the most engaged players (priority access, dedicated lounge). Please enquire at reception according to your level of participation.

Is wifi available within the casino?

Yes, a wifi connection is generally available in the Resort's spaces, including at the casino. Ask for the password at reception if necessary.

May I smoke in the gaming rooms?

It depends on the room: some areas are smoking, others non-smoking, particularly in the main tournament room.

Does the casino staff speak English if I do not speak French?

Yes, the staff of the Casino de Marrakech and the Resort are used to an international clientele and speak fluent French and English, in addition to Arabic.

Is the Casino de Marrakech located inside a hotel? Can I stay there?

The casino is located within the Es Saadi Marrakech Resort, an 8 hectare, 5 star complex comprising the Hôtel Es Saadi, the Palace Es Saadi, Ksars and villas. Rooms at the Resort are in high demand during the festival and are often booked as a priority via packages won on online satellites. Numerous alternative hotels exist in the immediate vicinity (Hivernage).

How do I get a room at the Es Saadi during the festival?

The simplest solution is to win a package (accommodation included) via an online satellite organised by the operator before the festival. Otherwise, you should book as early as possible directly with the Resort, subject to availability. Numerous packages with favourable rates are offered for each festival.

What restaurants are available within the Resort?

The Resort has several restaurants with varied atmospheres: Mediterranean cuisine at « Autour de la Piscine », Moroccan gastronomic restaurant La Cour des Lions, Italian restaurant Othello, healthy restaurant Lagon & Jardin, as well as an emblematic restaurant within the casino (Epicurien). A Moroccan dinner show is also offered on certain evenings.

Is there a swimming pool accessible to players during the festival?

Yes, the Resort has several swimming pools, including one of the largest in Marrakech (approximately 2 400 m² on the Palace side), set within an 8 hectare park. An access card (hotel guest or specific pass) may be required depending on your status.

Does the Resort offer a spa?

Yes, the Spa du Palace covers approximately 3 000 m² around a hundred-year-old eucalyptus tree, with hammam, beauty institute and signature treatments. The Hotel Es Saadi also has its own Oriental Spa.

Is there a gym on site?

Yes, a gym is available within the Resort for hotel guests. Please check the opening hours and access arrangements at reception.

What is the resort's nightclub that everyone is talking about?

This is the Theatro, an iconic nightclub in Marrakech located within the Resort, renowned for its shows and festive evenings that extend the festival atmosphere after the poker tables.

Is the Resort far from the city centre and the medina?

No: located in the quiet Hivernage district, the Resort is around 10 to 15 minutes on foot from Jemaa el-Fna square and the medina.

Are there family activities if I come with my children?

Yes, the Resort generally offers activities and spaces dedicated to children as well as family suites and connecting rooms. Please remember that access to the casino remains strictly forbidden to minors.

Does the Resort have a car park?

Yes, private parking is generally available on site for guests of the Resort and the casino, particularly for those arriving by hire car.

Will I be able to enjoy the evenings if I go far in a tournament?

The programme is generally designed so that the day's tournaments finish at a reasonable time, allowing you to join the evenings afterwards. This can, however, vary depending on turnout during the Day 2/Day 3 of the major tournaments.

What to do in Marrakech if I am not playing poker all day?

Marrakech offers many possibilities: a visit to the medina and the souks, the Majorelle Gardens, the Bahia Palace, excursions to the Atlas Mountains or the Agafay desert, a traditional hammam, local gastronomy (tajine, couscous, pastries).

Are there organised excursions during the festival for accompanying guests?

It depends on the edition: some festivals offer a programme of activities for accompanying guests. Please check with the Resort concierge or the organiser.

Can I easily buy souvenirs or local crafts from the Resort?

Yes, the medina and its souks, renowned for Moroccan craftsmanship (carpets, leather goods, spices, lamps), are accessible on foot or by taxi from the Resort within a few minutes.

Given how good I am at poker, how do I collect my winnings in dirhams and exchange them back into euros before I leave?

You must have previously carried out an official exchange (casino bank, bank transfer in your own name, or card payment at the cash desks) and keep proof of it. At the end of your stay, present your passport and proof of exchange at the casino cash desk. It is better to exchange everything in one go at the end of your stay rather than little by little.

What is a "winnings certificate" and why request one?

If you leave as a winner, ask for a certificate of winnings at the casino cash desk. It allows you to exchange back an amount greater than the one initially exchanged, and serves as proof at the airport if you leave the country with more money than you arrived with. Check the cash desk's opening hours at the end of the festival so as not to miss obtaining it.

Can I have my winnings paid by bank transfer rather than in cash?

Yes. The casino generally requires a copy of your passport, proof of payment of the buy-in, a signed handwritten letter requesting the transfer, a signed and stamped winnings certificate, as well as your RIB/IBAN, BIC/SWIFT code and your bank details.

How long does a bank transfer of my winnings take?

The processing time is generally around 2 to 3 weeks after all the required documents have been submitted.

Can the transfer be made to a close relative's account rather than mine?

No, the transfer can only be made in favour of the winning player himself, whose name must exactly match the one on the passport and on the winnings certificate.

Is Marrakech a safe city for tourists?

Generally speaking, Marrakech is a very popular tourist destination and is considered safe, provided you take the usual travel precautions (keeping an eye on your personal belongings, being careful in the very busy areas of the medina).

What should you do in the event of a medical emergency during the festival?

Hotel and casino staff will be able to direct you to a nearby clinic or emergency service. Keep the contact details of your travel insurance and your embassy/consulate with you.

May I leave my valuables (passport, cash, winnings) in a safe during my stay?

Yes, a safe is generally available in the Resort's rooms. It is recommended to keep your passport and cash in it rather than carrying them on you at all times, particularly at night.

How can I protect my chips and my winnings while I play?

It is advisable not to keep large amounts of cash on the table, to favour the preloaded casino card for your registrations, and to remain vigilant with regard to your chips and personal belongings in the gaming rooms, as in any casino.

Is there a security system within the casino and the Resort?

Yes, like any establishment of this type, the Casino de Marrakech and the Es Saadi Resort have a security and video surveillance system in the gaming and circulation areas.

1952

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L'Hôtel 5 Étoiles

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Le Palace

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Les Ksars

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Les Villas du Resort

2 400 m²
400 m²
300 m²

La Cour des Lions
Othello
Lagon & Jardin
La Chocolaterie
L'Épicurien

1952

2003