Benaissa began his career in media, working as a broadcaster for Radio Africa Maghreb in Tangier after completing his secondary education in Cairo.

   Benaissa held several key positions in Morocco’s government. He served as Minister of Foreign Affairs and Cooperation from 1999 to 2007, and as Morocco's Ambassador to the United States from 1993 to 1999. He also held the post of Minister of Culture between 1985 and 1992.

   In addition to his governmental roles, Benaissa was a member of Morocco's House of Councillors and President of the Asilah Council.

   Renowned for his dedication to culture, Benaissa is perhaps best known for his association with the Asilah Cultural Season, an annual event that has become a prominent forum for academics, experts, and artists from Morocco and abroad to engage in dialogue on a range of contemporary issues.