AFCON 2025: Rabat approves late-night opening hours ahead of continental showcase

Rabat has moved to adjust city life ahead of the Africa Cup of Nations by extending operating hours for cafés and restaurants, a decision announced just days before the tournament begins in Morocco.

In an official notice circulated to hospitality professionals, the municipality confirmed that establishments will be allowed to remain open until 2 a.m. throughout the competition period.

The measure will apply from Wednesday, December 17, 2025, and remain in force until Saturday, January 24, 2026, covering the full duration of the continental event and the days immediately following it.

The announcement comes as Morocco prepares to host the Africa Cup of Nations from December 21, 2025 to January 18, 2026, with Rabat among the cities set to experience an influx of visitors, supporters and officials.

The municipal authorities have framed the decision as part of a broader effort to ensure that the capital is ready to welcome both local residents and international guests during the tournament.

According to the document, which was signed by the president of the Municipal Council, Fatiha El Moudni, the extension of opening hours is intended to stimulate commercial activity and provide additional economic momentum during what is expected to be a busy and celebratory period.

By allowing cafés and restaurants to operate later into the night, the city hopes to support businesses while enhancing the overall experience for visitors.

Hospitality venues in Rabat are expected to play a central role during the competition, serving as social hubs where supporters gather to follow matches, discuss results and take part in the festive atmosphere surrounding the tournament.

The adjusted closing time reflects an acknowledgement of that role and a willingness by local authorities to adapt regulations in response to exceptional circumstances.

For professionals in the sector, the decision offers an opportunity to maximise revenue during a period likely to bring increased foot traffic.

At the same time, it places added responsibility on operators to comply with existing regulations relating to public order, hygiene and neighbourhood considerations, particularly during late-night hours.

The announcement has been met with anticipation among supporters, many of whom are already counting down to the opening matches.

Across Rabat and other host cities, preparations are intensifying, with infrastructure, services and public spaces being readied to accommodate the scale of the event.

The prospect of extended evenings adds to expectations of a lively and welcoming atmosphere in the capital.

While the Africa Cup of Nations will be decided on the pitch, its impact is expected to be felt well beyond stadium walls.

For Rabat, the extended opening hours represent both a symbolic and practical step, signalling that the city intends to embrace the tournament fully and showcase its hospitality.

As the countdown continues, the municipality’s decision underscores the broader ambition to ensure that the competition is not only a sporting spectacle, but also a cultural and economic moment for the host cities.

With cafés and restaurants set to stay open until the early hours, Rabat is positioning itself as a city ready to celebrate, host and benefit from one of Africa’s most significant sporting events.