MARRAKECH, Morocco — Morocco’s tourism industry is celebrating a record year, with 19.8 million visitors in 2025, a 14% increase compared to the previous year, according to the Ministry of Tourism.
Economic Impact
Tourism remains a cornerstone of Morocco’s economy:
- Contributes around 7% of GDP.
- Supports thousands of jobs across hospitality, transport, and retail.
- Generates vital foreign currency inflows.
Between January and November 2025, tourism revenue reached 124 billion dirhams ($13.5 billion), marking a 19% year‑on‑year increase.
Drivers of Growth
Several factors explain the surge:
- Expansion of international air routes connecting Morocco to new markets.
- Stronger partnerships with European and Middle Eastern travel sectors.
- Promotion of new destinations beyond traditional hubs like Marrakech and Casablanca.
- Heavy investment in hotel renovations and new developments to meet rising demand.
Looking Ahead
Morocco has set ambitious targets:
- 26 million tourists by 2030.
- Co‑hosting the FIFA World Cup with Spain and Portugal, expected to boost global visibility.
- Continued diversification into cultural tourism, eco‑tourism, and luxury travel.
Regional Significance
Morocco’s success positions it as one of Africa’s leading tourism hubs, competing with destinations like Egypt and South Africa. Analysts note that the World Cup will be a defining moment, potentially cementing Morocco’s reputation as a global travel powerhouse.