Finally… The Moroccan Caftan, a Symbol of National Heritage, is Protected and Preserved Internationally

ALDAR/ Sara Al-Wakili

The “Caftan” — the authentic traditional Moroccan garment — has been officially registered with the World Intellectual Property Organization (WIPO), ensuring the protection of this national heritage until the year 2035, with the possibility of renewing the protection every 10 years through the international Madrid system. This step comes to strengthen Moroccan cultural identity and to halt attempts of forgery or appropriation of this venerable symbol, which is an integral part of Morocco’s history and identity.

The caftan, one of the most prominent features of traditional Moroccan attire, reflects the richness of heritage and the artisanal skills passed down through generations over centuries. It is characterized by its variety of colors, patterns, and unique embroidery that narrate the story of each region of Morocco. The caftan is worn on special occasions such as weddings, religious celebrations, and national festivities, confirming its status as a living cultural symbol that reflects the authenticity of Moroccans and the deep roots of their history.

According to official Moroccan sources, the caftan was registered with WIPO via the Madrid system, which facilitates international trademark protection. This grants it a protection period of up to 10 years, renewable, thereby safeguarding it from illegal exploitation or unauthorized imitation. Moroccan authorities also aim to include the caftan on UNESCO’s Intangible Cultural Heritage list, cementing its global status as a shared human heritage.

This achievement comes amid previous attempts by certain parties, especially in Algeria, to appropriate Moroccan heritage symbols. The Kingdom categorically rejects these attempts, affirming that the caftan belongs to Morocco and its people and is part of a cultural and historical identity that is non-negotiable and cannot be stripped away.

Sources from the Moroccan Ministry of Culture also emphasize that this legal protection will support the traditional industries and artisanal crafts associated with the caftan, opening horizons for its official international marketing that safeguards the rights of Moroccan artisans and artists, while boosting the national cultural economy.

Registering the caftan with the Intellectual Property Organization represents a qualitative step in reinforcing Moroccan cultural sovereignty and consolidating the concept of protecting national heritage in the face of forgery and cultural theft attempts. It is an official declaration that Morocco protects and takes pride in its heritage and defends it on all international levels.