Although Africa is not commonly associated with casinos, it is believed to be the birthplace of gambling. From ancient Egyptian Senet boards to modern digital aviator games in Zambia and Sub-Saharan Africa, betting has always been an integral part of African culture.
At the Sahara, the Moroccan, Algerian, and northern African coast regions are prominent influences, as depicted in the classic film Casablanca. The casino was originally a basic establishment but was transformed into the sixth-ever resort on the Strip ten years after the film's release. Alongside the Flamingo, it remains as one of the few surviving resorts from that era.
The African theme is evident inside the Sahara, with North African murals and Moroccan-inspired decor in places like the Casbar Bar. The resort previously hosted a variety of performances from famous artists like The Beatles, Tina Turner, and the Rat Pack.
After undergoing several transformations over its 70-year history, the Sahara returned to its original name in 2019 and restored many of its Moroccan influences. The resort now boasts several spa facilities and a new Moroccan-designed AZILO Ultra Pool.
If you find yourself at the northern end of the Strip, we highly recommend stopping by the Sahara for a glimpse into its rich history and ongoing restoration efforts.
