Fasting is one of the pillars of the Islamic faith and reminds Muslims of the plight of the poor, sick and needy. Eid al-Fitr marks the end of the 30-day fasting period and is a great celebration throughout the Muslim world. Morocco is one of the last countries in the world that relies on actual sightings rather than a lunar calendar when working out its Ramadan dates…which means one can never be exactly sure when it’s going to start and finish.

Those of you with any experience of the country will immediately recognise how typically Moroccan this is…a big “Ramadan Mubarak” to all our friends!

Around 50 of the best Kitesurfing athletes representing 30 different countries including South Africa, Algerie, Great Britain, Australia and the United States will compete.

Beyond Essaouira itself there are many other magnificent beaches in the area. Sidi Kaouki, 14 km south of the town is know as a good surfing spot, as is Moulay Bouzerktoun, 25 km to the north.

The dates of the tour are:

Germany – Sylt, 16-21 June; Spain – Tarifa, 1-5 July; Portugal – Santa Cruz, 23 July-2 August; France – Dunkerque, 11-16 August; Canada – Shippagan, 23-30 August; Morocco – Dakhla, 26 September – 3 October; Brazil – Cumbuco, 29 October – 7 November; FINAL Morocco – Essaouira, 21-29 November.

During the annual event organised by African Business magazine and the Commonwealth Business Council (CBC), Morocco was recognised as a nation that has demonstrated innovation and proactivity in mobilising its tourism industry.

Mr Ali El Kasmi, Director of the Moroccan National Tourist Office UK, said: “We are delighted to have won such an accolade. Morocco offers a quality product and a cultural destination full of energy, mysticism and spice.”