To establish this ranking, the British magazine Time Out interviewed more than 24,000 inhabitants in more than 150 cities around the world. Participants were asked to rate the quality and accessibility of their city’s cultural scene, while a panel of editors, journalists and cultural experts also contributed to the final rankings.
In his portrait of Marrakesh, Time Out describes the city as a “pioneer” destination capable of “absorbing, merging and transforming global influences through a local gaze of vivid imagination”. A recognition which reflects the evolution of the ocher city into a true artistic laboratory mixing contemporary creation, Moroccan heritage and international influences.
The magazine notably highlights the African art fair 1-54, become one of the major events of contemporary African art. Several emblematic cultural spaces are also cited, including The MAP, Comptoir des Mines, Loft Art Gallery, the Montresso Foundation or even the Al Maaden Museum of Contemporary African Art (MACAAL).
The city is also praised for its artist workshopshis cultural riads and his hybrid places which host exhibitions, artistic fairs and creative meetings all year round. Time Out mentions in particular IZZA, El Fenn, Dar Al Dall or Dar des Arts as examples of establishments where culture is an integral part of the experience offered.
Beyond the visual arts, Marrakesh is also distinguished by its music scene and its living arts. Tea ceremonies organized at 1112 Teahousetraditional concerts at Music Museum or the musical sessions of the Jajjah illustrate this cultural diversity which mixes Moroccan traditions and contemporary expressions.
The ranking also highlights the role of Yves Saint Laurent Museum, of Meydene Theater and of Marrakech International Film Festival in the artistic influence of the city.
According to data published by Time Out, 63% of residents surveyed judge the Marrakech artistic and cultural scene “good” Or “exceptional”, while 64% believe that it remains financially affordable. The magazine notes in particular that concerts are particularly accessible there, while the museums constitute one of the major strengths of the city.
The world ranking podium is dominated by London, Paris and New York. Marrakech appears as the only Moroccan city selected in this international selection dedicated to the great cultural capitals of 2026.
