October 30–31, 2026
Marrakech, Morocco
Dear friends!
Looking back, it's hard to believe how quickly the years have passed. They've been filled with laughter, adventures, music, travel, friendships, and more unforgettable moments than I could ever have imagined. And somewhere along the way, almost without noticing, I found myself approaching a milestone that once felt impossibly far away:
It feels like only yesterday I was twenty-five and we all were dancing the night away in Almaty to the Black Eyed Peas.
Time, however, has a way of moving faster than we expect. Before I know it, a new decade of my life will begin, and I can think of no better way to welcome it than surrounded by the people who have been part of my journey over the years.
I would love for you to join me in celebrating this occasion in beautiful Marrakech—the city that captured Yves Saint Laurent's heart, where history, beauty, and Moroccan hospitality come together in a way unlike anywhere else in the world.
I can't wait to celebrate with you.
.
40
I've always been drawn to places with a strong sense of character—where history, beautiful architecture, incredible food, and just the right amount of chaos come together. Marrakech is exactly that kind of city. It's vibrant, unpredictable, and full of surprises.
The blend of Moroccan soul and French elegance gives it a character unlike anywhere else.
When I started thinking about my fortieth birthday, I couldn't imagine a better place to gather the people I love. It's a city made for adventure, long dinners, unforgettable celebrations—and, of course, plenty of 'lay-lay' stories.
Why Marrakech?
Reception 7 pm
Dinner 8.30 pm
After-party 12 am
Program
Beldi Country Club
October 30, 2026
Birthday Dinner
1 pm – 5 pm
DarDar Rooftop
October 31, 2026
Baz-Zhazu Brunch
Dress Code
Desert
Decadence
Think Marrakech after sunset: flowing silhouettes, sumptuous textures, rich jewel tones and a touch of unapologetic glamour. Dress to seduce the desert — elegant, expressive and effortlessly luxurious.
RSVP
As one of my old friends once said, the best birthday gift is strictly cash. I couldn't agree more.
Gifts
Travel Plan for Kazakhstan
October 29, Thursday
Arrival in Marrakech. Relax, settle in and save your energy — no false starts (I see you!).
October 30, Friday
Birthday dinner. Morning and afternoon at leisure.
October 31, Saturday
Baz-Zhazu Brunch – favorite part of the whole trip. Evening is free.
November 1, Sunday
Free day to explore and get lost in Marrakech.
November 2, Monday
Home, or onward.
For guests travelling from Kazakhstan: I recommend booking your flights through my travel coordinator, Saida. +7 701 722 7717
For this trip, I recommend Turkish Airlines from both Almaty and Astana.
As many of us will be travelling on the same flights or with similar connections, it will be much easier if all bookings are handled by one person. This makes it quicker and simpler to deal with any unexpected changes, such as schedule adjustments, flight delays, or other travel disruptions.
Of course, this is simply a recommendation, and you're welcome to book your flights however you prefer.
Thank you for your understanding!
Flights
P.S. I gotta feeling the fun will begin at the airport. 😀
Currency: Moroccan dirham (MAD)
In Marrakech
Weather: Around: +25…+30 °C during the day; after sunset it gets cooler — a light jacket or jacket won’t hurt.
Airport: Marrakech Menara (RAK)
Language: Arabic and French. English is also widely spoken in hotels, restaurants, and other tourist areas.
Getting Around: Use official taxis or arrange a transfer through your hotel. InDrive is widely available in Marrakech.
Safety: Marrakech is generally a safe city. As in any busy destination, keep an eye on your belongings in the Medina and politely decline unsolicited offers of assistance from strangers.
Practical Information
Payment: Credit cards are accepted at most hotels and restaurants, but it's worth carrying some cash for markets, small cafés, and tips.
Power Sockets: Type C and E, 220V. The plugs are the same as in Kazakhstan, so you won't need an adapter.
Restaurants
Personally tried & tested
(Click on a name to visit its Instagram page)
One of Marrakech's most beautiful and stylish hotels, renowned for its stunning grounds, iconic pool, and refined Moroccan elegance.
Hotels
Near Beldi Country Club
(20 minutes from the city center)
Selman Marrakech
A stylish boutique hotel with a relaxed atmosphere, located just a few minutes from the birthday venue.
The Source Marrakech
One of Marrakech's finest resort hotels, offering expansive grounds, excellent restaurants, and exceptional service.
Fairmont Royal Palm Marrakech
A legendary palace hotel and one of Marrakech's most iconic landmarks.
La Mamounia
The ultimate expression of Moroccan luxury and consistently ranked among the world's finest hotels.
Royal Mansour Marrakech
El Fenn
A stylish boutique hotel in the heart of the Medina, perfect for those who want to immerse themselves in the spirit of Marrakech.
A traditional Moroccan house built around a peaceful inner courtyard, many of which have been transformed into charming boutique hotels. The perfect choice if you'd like to experience the authentic atmosphere of the Medina.
Any riad
In the city
Marrakech's most famous garden, known for its vibrant blue architecture, exotic plants, and tranquil atmosphere. The garden also includes the Berber Museum.
Things to do
Jardin Majorelle
A beautifully designed museum celebrating the life and work of Yves Saint Laurent, located next to Majorelle Garden.
Musée Yves Saint Laurent Marrakech
Maison de la Photographie
One of the city's most charming museums, featuring historic photographs of Morocco from the 19th and 20th centuries. Don't miss the rooftop café.
Bahia Palace
A masterpiece of Moroccan architecture with stunning courtyards, mosaics and gardens.
The city's legendary main square, best experienced at sunset when food stalls and performers appear.
Jemaa el-Fna
Le Jardin Secret
A restored historic riad garden offering a peaceful escape from the busy Medina.
MACAAL Museum
One of Africa's leading contemporary art museums, featuring an impressive permanent collection, thought-provoking temporary exhibitions, and striking architecture. A must-visit for anyone interested in contemporary art.
From Abdique Expo to Prom Night, from global concerts to wild nights in gay bars — this is forty years of memories, friendships, adventures, celebrations, and a few questionable decisions 😀
Photo Gallery
See you in Marrakech!
Abdel
© 2026 Abdel40. All rights reserved.