While the Assumption on August 15th is not a public holiday in Morocco, the day before—August 14th—the country commemorates the allegiance of Oued Eddahab.

The Sahara

To fully grasp the significance and importance of this Oued Eddahab Allegiance celebration, you would venture into Morocco's southern regions, that part of the Sahara. For the Oued Eddahab Allegiance commemorates the integration of this province into Morocco, completing the reunification work of the late Hassan II.

It was on August 14, 1979, that 360 representatives of the province performed the Bayaa (the traditional oath of allegiance) before their new king, thus marking the allegiance of Oued Eddahab. With Dakhla as its "capital," the region escaped Mauritanian sovereignty, and since this Oued Eddahab allegiance, Moroccan authorities have continuously developed this region of the western Sahara.

August 14th is therefore a public holiday in Morocco, even though the celebration takes on particular significance here, in this region, which sent (spontaneously) its representatives to mark the allegiance of Oued Eddahab. In Dakhla, you will see local dignitaries dressed in the region's traditional garments. The celebrations organized here underscore Morocco's unity, while allowing inhabitants to traditionally commemorate the allegiance of Oued Eddahab.

In Dakhla, the city celebrates this event with parades and festive meals, though over the years, the commemoration—even here—has lost some of its prominence and renown.

The Rest of the Country

A public holiday, the Oued Eddahab Allegiance occasions national celebrations in the country's major cities and across the Saharan region. Nevertheless, you can seize this commemoration of the Oued Eddahab Allegiance as an opportunity to visit the city of Rabat.

It was here, in 1979, that the Oued Eddahab Allegiance was officially recognized. Take the chance to visit the site of this chapter in Moroccan history. The ceremony took place in the Royal Palace, and you will sense the solemnity that permeates these halls.

While you're there, discover the city of Rabat, with its celebrated Andalusian Garden, or perhaps explore the Museum of the Oudaia, this former presidential palace of Moulay Ismail. The winding streets of the Kasbah will captivate you with their charm. Rabat will surprise you through the contrast between its historic medina—whose fortified walls enhance its authenticity (visit the "Sunday Gate," dating from the 17th century)—and the modern city that houses the white Saint Peter's Cathedral, built in the 1930s.

A few official celebrations will commemorate the Oued Eddahab Allegiance, though this public holiday is not the most celebrated in Morocco.