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Our History

A House Steeped in Art and Memory

Formerly known as Dar El Mudal, the Riad was once a private residence owned by Norman Douglas Hutchison, a British painter who fell in love with Marrakech and its Medina.

Designed as a home rather than a hotel, the house was built around its patio to offer calm, privacy, and light. Art, craftsmanship and a sense of balance shaped its identity long before it became a place of hospitality.

Today, Riad Zeitoun Palace preserves this heritage. Carefully restored, the Riad welcomes guests while remaining faithful to its origins—a lived-in home where authenticity is protected rather than replaced.

01

80s

Residence of Norman Hutchison

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02

2018

Complete restoration and rebirth

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Riad Zeitoun Palace Icon
Authentic Sanctuary

About Riad Zeitoun Palace

"More than a hotel, a house of art and history where Moroccan hospitality is experienced in complete privacy."

Nestled in the heart of the historic Kasbah, Riad Zeitoun Palace is an invitation to slow down. Passionately restored, it offers a perfect balance between traditional architecture and contemporary comfort.

Riad Zeitoun Palace Patio
RIAD ZEITOUN PALACE

The Promise of a Stay Rooted in Tradition & Guided by Purpose

Our Vision

At Riad Zeitoun Palace, we believe a stay should be more than accommodation—it should be an experience rooted in authenticity, comfort, and meaning. While excellence in service remains at the core of our philosophy, it is complemented by a thoughtful commitment to sustainability. We see responsible hospitality not as a limitation, but as a more conscious expression of luxury.

Our vision takes shape through concrete actions:

Smart air-conditioning systems designed to optimize comfort and reduce energy consumption

Housekeeping on request only, helping to limit water usage and cleaning products

A traditional hammam heated entirely by solar energy, blending ancestral wellness with renewable energy

A local, fresh and mostly homemade breakfast, celebrating Moroccan terroir

Each morning, our guests enjoy homemade yogurt and fresh cheese, honey from our own farm, organic “Terre de l’Atlas” jams, traditional Moroccan delicacies prepared daily by our Chef Asmaa, fresh seasonal fruits from the market, and our signature tea—an aromatic journey through Moroccan spice culture.

Our Philosophy

Authenticity

Preserving the Moroccan soul through every architectural and human detail.

Serenity

Offering a haven of absolute calm, far from the vibrant bustle of the city.

Eco friendly note

Preserving the beauty of our environment through sustainable practices and mindful hospitality.

The Medina & the Riad Spirit

Staying in the Medina of Marrakech is an immersive and timeless experience. It is an historic living city, shaped by centuries of culture, craftsmanship and daily life.

Riads are traditional homes, not modern five-star hotels. Built inward to protect privacy and freshness, they naturally differ from contemporary luxury properties. Due to the historic nature of the Medina, certain architectural or technical limitations may exist as part of preserving these centuries-old buildings.

In return, riads offer something rare and precious: the calm of a patio hidden behind ancient walls, birdsong in the morning, filtered light through carved arches, and the feeling of staying in a home rather than a standardized hotel.

We invite our guests to embrace this spirit with openness and curiosity—and to experience Marrakech from the inside.

Marhaba*

Ismaël Akdime, Director of Riad Zeitoun Palace

* Marhaba means 'Welcome' in Arabic

Why Choose Riad Zeitoun Palace?

Authentic Moroccan Charm

An immersion into the local art of living.

"Zelliges, carved wood, and hand-selected Berber textiles."

Bespoke Experiences

Your stay, orchestrated according to your desires.

"Private dinners, exclusive excursions, and wellness rituals."

Prime Location

Absolute quiet, in the center of everything.

"Steps away from the Saadian Tombs and El Badi Palace."

A Team Dedicated to Your Well-being

From the welcome mint tea prepared by Asma to organizing your desert excursions, every member of our team ensures your stay is seamless and magical.

Marhaba*

Ismaël Akdime — Director

* Marhaba means 'Welcome' in Arabic

“
Riad Zeitoun Palace
A Word From Our Director

Welcome home. When we imagined Riad Zeitoun Palace, our vision was simple: to create a place that is not just a hotel, but a living home.

Every day, my team and I strive to weave sincere bonds with our guests.

We are here to transform your journey into an indelible memory.

Ismaël Akdime

Director

”