About Smara – History, Location & People

Discover Smara, the spiritual heart of the Moroccan Sahara — a desert city where history, faith, and Hassani culture come together in harmony. Located in the Laâyoune–Sakia El Hamra region, Smara stands as a symbol of heritage, knowledge, and Moroccan identity.

📍 Geographic Location

Smara is located in the southeastern part of the Laâyoune–Sakia El Hamra region, about 250 km from Laâyoune. It lies on the banks of Oued Saguia El Hamra, the historic river that gave the region its name, and has long served as a vital crossroads between Morocco and West Africa.

🏛️ History & Foundation

Smara was founded in the late 19th century by Sheikh Ma El Ainin, a revered scholar, Sufi leader, and symbol of resistance and knowledge in the Sahara. Under his vision, the city became a center of spiritual learning and cultural exchange, attracting students and scholars from across the Moroccan desert.

Smara’s ancient manuscripts, religious schools, and architectural heritage reflect its role as the spiritual capital of the Moroccan Sahara.

👥 People & Local Life

The people of Smara are known for their deep connection to Hassani traditions — expressed through hospitality, poetry, and oral storytelling. Traditional weddings, nomadic gatherings, and desert music bring the community together, preserving the authentic rhythm of Saharan life.

🎭 Cultural & Spiritual Importance

Smara remains a beacon of faith, learning, and authenticity. Its zawiyas and mosques, founded by Sheikh Ma El Ainin, continue to inspire pilgrims and scholars alike. Through its music, poetry, crafts, and daily traditions, Smara keeps alive the spirit of the Moroccan Sahara — a living testimony to the country’s desert soul.