Agadir (Morocco)

Agadir is one of the major cities in Morocco, situated on the shore of the Atlantic near the foot of Atlas Mountains, and just north of the point where Sous River flows into the Atlantic Ocean. Agadir is at a distance of 508 kilometers to the south of Casablanca. It is also the capital of Agadir-Ida Ou Tanane Prefecture and of Souss-Massa economic region. The majority of Agadir's inhabitants speak Shilha as their first language (Berber language of Atlas branch). In 2012 the population of Agadir numbered 600,000 inhabitants.

In 1960 the city of Agadir was destroyed by an earthquake. Later on, it was completely recovered with mandatory seismic standards. Today it is Morocco's largest seaside resort, where foreign tourists and lots of residents are attracted by the mild year-round climate. Agadir has been well served by cheap flights and a motorway out of Tangier since 2010. 

Over the decades, the city has had several ports: a major trading port, two fishing ports, and the recent port with marina for leisure boats. Avenue du Port is the main artery of Anza district. It is surrounded by canneries and offers many small restaurants that are adjacent to the fish market. Agadir's fishing port is one of the world's premier major sardine ports. The commercial port is famous for its exports of manganese, zinc, cobalt and citrus products.

The economy of Agadir relies mainly on fisheries and tourism. Agricultural activities are based all around the city. Agadir boasts its Souk Al Ahad - one of the largest Souks in Morocco. The city also has its cement company named Ciments du Maroc (CIMAR), subsidiary of the Italian Italcementi. There is also a shipyard and Morocco's only Merchant Marine school.

Some of the prettiest beaches in Morocco lie to the north of Agadir. Areas known for excellent surfing are situated close to the village of Taghazout to Cap Ghir. Many smaller and beautiful beaches are located along this coast between Agadir and Essaouira.

Agadir cruise terminal