Rabat

Marhaba! This is the traditional greeting used in Morocco to mean a warm “hello and welcome!”

Arrive at either the Casablanca Mohammed International Airport or Rabat-Sale International Airport. On arrival, you will be met by a representative at the airport who will assist you through immigration and customs and connect you with your driver. Afterwards, you will be transferred to the hotel to settle in before the program begins.

Gather as a group for welcome cocktails and a special welcome dinner at the Fairmont Rabat with André Azoulay, counselor to H.M. The King

Overnight: Fairmont Rabat 
Room Category: Deluxe room with private balcony

Rabat

Enjoy breakfast at the hotel before departing for a meeting at the American Embassy, followed by a visit to the Israeli Embassy.

Afterwards, explore Rabat through its historical cultural sites, including the historic Mausoleum, a perfectly preserved example of the Alaouite dynasty’s architectural style.

This afternoon is dedicated to meetings with some of the following Hebrew University Moroccan partners:

• International University of Rabat
• Minister Chakib ben-Moussa
• Kasbah Oudaya

In the late afternoon, return to the hotel to freshen up. In the evening, reconvene as a group for dinner with the Israeli Ambassador.

Overnight: Fairmont Rabat 
Room Category: Deluxe room with private balcony

Casablanca

After breakfast at the hotel, check out and depart for Casablanca. As you start the journey in Casablanca, visit the Museum of Moroccan Judaism, created and managed by the Foundation of Judeo-Moroccan Cultural Heritage. The museum is considered the first museum of the city of Casablanca, and the only Jewish Museum in the Arab world.

As you continue the drive, you will stop for lunch and visit the magnificent Hassan II Grand Mosque, one of the few mosques that can be visited by non-Muslims in Morocco. Built on reclaimed land, almost half of the surface of the mosque lies over the waters of the Atlantic. The mosque is amongst the largest in the world and can house as many as 25,000 worshipers. Its minaret is one of the tallest religious structures in the world.

Upon arrival, check into the Royal Mansour Casablanca, a new luxury hotel that offers an exquisite retreat into Moroccan grandeur. Guests are embraced in an ambiance of sophistication and Moroccan charm with exceptional service. Freshen up before reconvening for this evening’s dinner with Former Minister of Tourism, Serge Berdugo, President of the Council of Jewish Communities of Morocco.

Overnight: Royal Mansour Casablanca
Room Category: Deluxe & premier rooms

Marrakech

After breakfast, check out from the hotel before gathering as a group to depart for Marrakech. Along the journey, you will visit Mohammed VI Polytechnic University and be hosted by the University’s President.

As you reach Marrakech, you will check into the Selman, where a truly unique experience awaits. Explore the private stables, designed by renowned architect Jacques Garcia, and encounter the world’s most stunning Arabian horses. These noble creatures bring an air of grace and timeless elegance that defines the ambiance of the Selman.

Begin to discover the gems of Marrakech, the most famous city in Morocco. Enjoy lunch and visit some of the city’s most historical landmarks including the Koutoubia Mosque, an emblem of Marrakech. Built in the 12th century, the Koutoubia’s minaret is considered one of the highlights of Islamic religious structures in North Africa and the inspiration for the architects of the Giralda in Seville and the Hassan Tower in Rabat. From the mosque we will move on to the synagogue where you will have a private visit with Jacky Kadosh, the President of the Jewish Community of Marrakech.

Unwind in the evening with a lively dinner and authentic Moroccan entertainment.

Overnight: Selman Marrakech
Room Category: Junior Suite

Atlas Mountains

After breakfast at the hotel, set out for an excursion to the Atlas Mountains. You will drive to the small Berber village of Imlil.

Upon arrival, you will be met by your guide and set out together to begin your walk through orchards to the village of Armed (at an elevation of 2000m). Here you will meet with a local family who will welcome you into their home. Savor freshly made bread accompanied by a refreshing mint tea as your host enlightens you on the daily lifestyle of the locals with tales of their family, history and culture.

Eat lunch at Kasbah Tomadot in the mountains. Afterwards, drive back to Marrakech and continue with exploration in the souks. This evening, experience Moroccan home hospitality at a hosted dinner at a private residence.

Overnight: Selman Marrakech
Room Category: Junior Suite

Marrakech

Optional Hot Air Balloon: Rise early, leaving the hotel around 5:00 AM and drive to the Jbilet Hills, the launchpad of the hot air balloon. When you arrive, climb into the basket and sail over the Atlas Mountains with incredible, panoramic views of the majestic mountain range. You’ll return to land to enjoy a traditional Berber breakfast before returning to the hotel. Please note that this optional activity is an additional cost and limited to availability.

Enjoy breakfast at the hotel this morning before setting out to explore more of Marrakech. Today’s sightseeing will include a visit to the Dar El Bacha Museum, formally the private residence of Thami El Glaoui (who ruled over Marrakech from 1912 to 1956), Dar El Bacha Palace has historically hosted magnificent celebrations and receptions in the presence of the well-known historical figures, including Winston Churchill and Jacques Majorelle.

Afterwards, have lunch at a local Moroccan restaurant before visiting the Majorelle Gardens & Yves Saint Laurent Museum, where you will experience one of the most enchanting and colorful gardens in Morocco.

You will have a day room booked at Selman Marrakech, so that you can freshen up at the and enjoy a quick meal before going to the Casablanca Airport for your overnight flight to Israel (Limited business class seat upgrades available).

Flight details below:

• Flight #: Royal Air Maroc #228 (Casablanca to Tel Aviv)
• Departure Time: 11:10 pm
• Arrival Time: 6:30 am

AFHU is managing all of your arrangements in Israel, starting upon your arrival to Tel Aviv. For any questions about the Israel portion, please contact western@afhu.org.

Day Rooms: Selman Marrakech
Room Category: Junior Suite

Jerusalem

Welcome to Israel! After arriving at Ben Gurion Airport, a VIP arrival service will lead you through immigration and baggage claim before meeting with a private driver to transport you to Jerusalem’s newest jewel, the Orient Hotel, where you will have time to rest and refresh before the evening’s welcome dinner at the Waldorf Astoria rooftop, where you can enjoy a breathtaking view of the city.

Overnight: The Orient Hotel
Room Category: Templer Executive

Jerusalem

Start the day with breakfast at the hotel, followed by a guided walking tour of Jerusalem, highlighting significant sites that commemorate the first 100 years of Hebrew University. Savor brunch at the King David Hotel before participating in a panel discussion featuring prominent leaders from the business, political, public, and academic sectors of the University. Conclude this festive day with the inauguration of the HUJI High-Tech Park with the Mayor of Jerusalem.

Overnight: The Orient Hotel
Room Category: Templer Executive

Jerusalem

Kick off the day with the University President’s Plenary, where the University will elect a new president.

Immerse yourself in a conference focused on high-tech advancements and celebrate 100 years of entrepreneurship at Hebrew University. The festivities will include the inauguration of The Saul and Joyce Brandman Residence Park, followed by a celebratory lunch honoring Joyce Brandman at the Edmond & Lily Safra Center for Brain Sciences.

In the evening, socialize with members of the University community at HUJI Plaza, enjoying a vibrant shuk-style dinner. Experience a special reenactment ceremony that brings to life the opening of the Hebrew University of Jerusalem in 1925, and conclude the day with a spectacular performance by the Israel Philharmonic at the Rothberg Amphitheater.

Overnight: The Orient Hotel

Jerusalem

Start the day with the Benefactors Breakfast, where you can connect with fellow supporters and University leadership before embarking to the Mount Scopus Campus, where we’ll honor distinguished Honorary Fellows and Honorary Doctorates. While on Mount Scopus, take a moment to appreciate the views over historic Jerusalem and the Wall of Benefactors, showcasing Hebrew University’s most devoted supporters.

Afterward, enjoy a special lunch at the Dan Jerusalem Hotel in honor of our Honorary Doctorates, followed by engaging panels featuring these esteemed individuals and conclude the evening with a festive dinner reception at the Rothberg Amphitheater Plaza before the Honorary Doctorate Ceremony.

Overnight: The Orient Hotel
Room Category: Templer Executive

Jerusalem & Departures

Begin your day with an exclusive gathering at President Isaac Herzog’s residence, followed by bespoke ceremonies at the Edmond J. Safra Campus. These celebrations will include special tours highlighting key projects, such as the Computer Science Building, NEQST and Talpiot Program.

Enjoy a delightful lunch at the Jerusalem Botanical Gardens in Givat Ram before attending the convocation ceremony for Ph.D. students.

In the evening, join us for a Gala at the Tower of David, featuring an artistic display that marks 100 years of Hebrew University. This promises to be a memorable day of connection and celebration!

Depending on your flight time, you will check out of the hotel and transfer to the airport in Tel Aviv for your international flight or onward connection. For guidance on booking your flight, see the pre-departure information tab.

If you would like to join the optional extension (see itinerary below), you will have overnight accommodation booked for you at The Orient Hotel.

Optional Extension

Wake up and enjoy another delicious hotel breakfast before we head out for the day. Partake in the Wall of Life Inscription Ceremony and the Dedication Ceremonies at Mount Scopus, including tours of the Founders Wall, Legacy Tree, and Wall for Endowed Chairs. Following that, we’ll head to Independence Hall for the Academic Achievements Award Ceremony.

Then, explore the HUJI Market with food trucks and live HUJI Bites, followed by the Asper Prize Ceremony at the Edmond J. Safra Campus. Finally, return to the hotel to rest before the American Friends dinner.

Overnight: The Orient Hotel
Room Category: Templer Executive

Optional Extension

Commence today’s “Philanthropy and Alumni Day” on the Mount Scopus Campus, featuring the themes of Legacy, Innovation, and Trust. Following the conference, attend the inauguration for the new Recognition Wall honoring the Tradition of Innovation Campaign. We’ll then participate in a recognition ceremony for Professor Haim Sompolinsky, celebrating his prestigious Brain Prize award, followed by a lunch in his honor.

In the afternoon, join alumni for reunions across various faculties, before culminating the day with a “Mega Alumni Event” on the Edmond J. Safra Campus Lawn, featuring a celebratory dinner for all attendees.

Depending on your flight time, you will check out of the hotel and transfer to the airport in Tel Aviv for your international flight or onward connection. For guidance on booking your flight, see the pre-departure information tab.

To participate in the Israel extension, please contact the Western Regional Office at  western@afhu.org or call 310.843.3100.