Morocco’s Iconic Hammams to Partially Close in Response to Water Scarcity – Sky Bulletin

In the wake of severe drought conditions, Morocco is taking measures to conserve water by mandating that their renowned public baths, known as hammams, close for three days each week. Fatima Mhattar, a receptionist at Hammam El Majd located in the suburbs of Rabat, now faces a challenging new reality. Traditionally, hammams have served as social hubs where people from all walks of life gather for relaxation and cleansing, but the continuing drought is forcing a reevaluation of water usage across the country.

These communal bathhouses have been integral to Moroccan culture for centuries, offering a space for diverse groups of people to come together. With mosaic tiled walls and steam-filled rooms, visitors use traditional black soap and hot water to cleanse themselves, symbolizing a kind of communal purification.

However, Morocco’s battle with a six-year drought, compounded by the threats from climate change, has diminished the nation’s largest water reservoirs, inciting fear amongst farmers and city dwellers alike. To combat the crisis, restrictions have been placed on hammams and other businesses, such as car washes, stirring controversy among the public.

While this measure aims to conserve water, it has elicited dissatisfaction from various stakeholders, including hammam patrons and political figures. Critics argue that the government has been selective, sparing luxury spas and agricultural operations—which use most of the nation’s water—from similar restrictions. Hammam workers and those dependent on the industry, which uses around 2% of Morocco’s water, are particularly affected with their income at stake.

In response to the mandatory water conservation efforts, which have also impacted cities like Casablanca and Tangier, some citizens express frustration and concern about social inequities, reflecting broader discussions on wealth distribution and power in Morocco. The water-rationing practices vary across the region, with neighboring countries like Tunisia and parts of Spain implementing their own methods to manage water scarcity.

Despite the challenges posed by the closure of hammams, some people acknowledge the importance of water preservation and express willingness to forgo their weekly visits in favor of essential water needs. The hammam closures have become a focal point in the national discussion on drought and its consequences.

Contribution to this report was made by Houda Benalla.