Laayoune’s streets and public buildings have taken on a new look after dark, with red and green lights, illuminated facades and artistic installations marking the opening of the second Al-Anwar festival.
During a nighttime tour, Le360 observed major roads transformed by lighting displays featuring national colors and motifs, while residents took to the streets to admire the decorations and take family photographs.
The festival coincides with the first anniversary of the UN Security Council resolution adopted on October 31, 2025, which made Morocco’s autonomy proposal the basis for negotiations over the future of the Sahara.
Among the buildings illuminated are the headquarters of the Laayoune-Sakia El Hamra regional administration and the local security headquarters on Hassan II Avenue.
The displays extend through streets and alleyways, drawing pedestrians and families into public spaces after sunset.
The celebrations follow a series of diplomatic developments concerning the Sahara, including recognition of Moroccan sovereignty by the United States and France.
Laayoune has also seen investment in tourism, infrastructure and other sectors since King Mohammed VI’s visit to the city in 2015.
