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Casablanca-Settat, the economic heart of Morocco, is not only home to major industries, financial hubs, and trade centers, but also to influential political figures who have shaped the region’s progress. Some of these leaders are counted among the richest politicians in Casablanca-Settat, thanks to their combined careers in politics, business, and investments.

This article dives deep into their biographies and net worth in dollars, tracing how they rose to prominence, what shaped their careers, and how they built their wealth. Beyond wealth, these figures also represent leadership, vision, and influence in Moroccan society.

The Role of Wealth in Casablanca-Settat Politics

Casablanca-Settat is one of Morocco’s most dynamic regions, accounting for a significant share of the national economy. Being the hub of banking, commerce, and trade, it naturally influences the financial standing of its leaders. Many politicians from the region come from business backgrounds, merging their economic power with political influence.

Wealth often plays a role in politics by enabling leaders to fund campaigns, support social projects, and maintain strong influence within their constituencies. The richest politicians in Casablanca-Settat exemplify how financial independence can strengthen political careers.

Profiles of the Richest Politicians in Casablanca-Settat

1. Mustapha Bakkoury

Mustapha Bakkoury is one of the most recognizable political figures in Casablanca-Settat. Known for his leadership in renewable energy and politics, he has also managed major national projects.

• Biography: Born in 1964, Bakkoury studied engineering and later pursued finance and management, which gave him a unique edge in both technical and administrative roles.

• Career: He rose to prominence as the head of the Moroccan Agency for Solar Energy (MASEN) before taking political leadership roles, including serving as president of the Casablanca-Settat Regional Council.

• Net Worth in Dollars: Estimated between $8 million and $12 million, accumulated from public leadership roles, investments, and business ventures.

2. Moulay Hafid Elalamy

Moulay Hafid Elalamy, although known nationally, has strong connections to Casablanca-Settat. He embodies the combination of political authority and business acumen.

• Biography: Born in 1960, he studied in Canada before returning to Morocco to build his business empire.

• Career: Elalamy founded Saham Group, one of Morocco’s leading insurance and investment firms. He later served as Minister of Industry, Trade, and Green and Digital Economy, shaping Morocco’s economic policies.

• Net Worth in Dollars: His fortune is estimated at $750 million to $1 billion, making him one of the wealthiest political figures in Morocco.

3. Karim Ghellab

Karim Ghellab is another influential politician with ties to Casablanca-Settat, well known for his long-standing role in politics and public service.

• Biography: Born in 1966, Ghellab pursued studies in engineering before stepping into public life.

• Career: He has served as Minister of Transport and Equipment and later as Speaker of the House of Representatives. His career is marked by efforts to improve Morocco’s infrastructure and parliamentary system.

• Net Worth in Dollars: Estimated between $5 million and $7 million, mainly from political positions, consulting, and business-related activities.

4. Abdelaziz El Omari

Abdelaziz El Omari has held key political roles, including leadership in Casablanca, which gave him national recognition.

• Biography: Born in 1968, El Omari studied engineering and later management. His professional training helped him combine technical knowledge with political leadership.

• Career: He served as Mayor of Casablanca, focusing on urban projects, infrastructure development, and city modernization. His leadership role in one of Morocco’s largest cities positioned him as a highly influential figure.

• Net Worth in Dollars: His wealth is estimated between $3 million and $5 million, derived from his career, management projects, and political responsibilities.

5. Saad Hassar

Saad Hassar, though less publicized internationally, is a wealthy politician connected to Casablanca-Settat through his political influence.

• Biography: Born in 1962, Hassar comes from a family with strong ties to politics and administration.

• Career: He has served as Secretary of State in the Ministry of the Interior and played a role in national governance. His background combines family influence with political service.

• Net Worth in Dollars: Estimated at $4 million to $6 million, combining political salaries, investments, and inherited assets.

Common Sources of Wealth Among Casablanca-Settat Politicians

The richest politicians in Casablanca-Settat have built their fortunes from a mix of sources:

1. Business Ventures – Many entered politics after building businesses in insurance, trade, real estate, or industry.

2. Government Roles – High-ranking positions provide both salaries and long-term financial security.

3. Investments – Real estate remains a favorite investment, alongside banking and emerging industries.

4. International Experience – Some gained financial advantage by studying or working abroad, then leveraging that expertise in Morocco.

Influence of Wealth on Regional Development

Casablanca-Settat’s wealthy politicians have often reinvested part of their fortune into the region, supporting:

• Infrastructure development.

• Renewable energy initiatives.

• Job creation through private enterprises.

• Social programs benefiting education and healthcare.

This link between political power and economic strength makes them central figures in Morocco’s modernization efforts.

Summary Table: Richest Politicians in Casablanca-Settat

Conclusion

The richest politicians in Casablanca-Settat are more than just wealthy individuals; they are influential leaders who shape the economic and political landscape of Morocco’s most dynamic region. Figures like Moulay Hafid Elalamy, with a net worth nearing a billion dollars, highlight the strong connection between politics and business. Others, like Mustapha Bakkoury and Karim Ghellab, showcase how careers in public service, when combined with strategic investments, can lead to significant financial success.

Their stories reflect a balance of education, determination, business skills, and leadership. Understanding their biographies and net worth in dollars provides valuable insight into the unique intersection of politics and wealth in Morocco.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Who is the richest politician in Casablanca-Settat?
Moulay Hafid Elalamy is considered the richest, with an estimated net worth between $750 million and $1 billion.

2. What is Mustapha Bakkoury’s estimated net worth?
His net worth is estimated between $8 million and $12 million.

3. How do Casablanca-Settat politicians build their wealth?
Through a mix of business ventures, political roles, investments, and international experience.

4. What industries are most common among wealthy politicians in the region?
Real estate, insurance, trade, renewable energy, and industrial sectors.

5. Did all wealthy politicians in Casablanca-Settat come from rich families?
Not all. While some, like Saad Hassar, benefited from family connections, others like Elalamy built their wealth independently.

6. How does wealth impact politics in Casablanca-Settat?
It enables politicians to fund campaigns, support projects, and influence policymaking.

7. Who was the Mayor of Casablanca linked to wealth and development projects?
Abdelaziz El Omari, who served as Mayor, oversaw urban development and modernization projects.

8. Do these politicians contribute to Morocco’s economic growth?
Yes, many reinvest their wealth into industries, job creation, and infrastructure.

9. Are net worth figures exact?
No, they are estimates based on business holdings, investments, and public information.

10. Why is Casablanca-Settat significant in Moroccan politics?
It is the country’s economic hub, making its politicians naturally influential on a national level.