New Delhi, December 10, 2025 — The Moroccan caftan has officially been added to UNESCO’s Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity list, following its approval on Wednesday during the 20th session of the Intergovernmental Committee for the Safeguarding of Intangible Cultural Heritage held in New Delhi.
This prestigious recognition highlights the artistic brilliance and centuries-old craftsmanship that define the Moroccan caftan. It also reflects Morocco’s sustained commitment to preserving, promoting, and transmitting its cultural traditions across generations.
The inscription is widely seen as the culmination of long-standing efforts led by the Kingdom under the guidance of His Majesty King Mohammed VI, aimed at safeguarding the country’s rich and diverse cultural heritage. Through these initiatives, Morocco continues to strengthen its role as a guardian of authentic and evolving cultural expressions.
Among the many elements that make up Morocco’s vibrant cultural mosaic, the caftan holds a central and emblematic place. Its historical value, rooted in centuries of practice, is intertwined with its social significance and enduring presence in daily life.
More than a garment, the caftan represents identity, social cohesion, and regional diversity. It stands as a “total social fact,” bringing together entire communities through its design, craftsmanship, and ceremonial use. In doing so, it embodies a living heritage that continues to evolve while remaining deeply anchored in Moroccan tradition.
The inclusion of the Moroccan caftan on UNESCO’s list not only honors a masterpiece of cultural expression but also reinforces the nation’s ongoing pledge to celebrate and safeguard the treasures of its collective memory.
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