Morocco is on the brink of achieving new tourism milestones in 2024, positioning itself to surpass Egypt as Africa’s most visited destination. By November 2024, the country had already welcomed almost 16 million tourists, a 20 percent rise compared to the same period in 2023. With this momentum, Moroccan authorities are optimistic about reaching 17.5 million visitors by the end of the year.
Marrakech remains top destination
Marrakech, famously known as the ‘Red City’, remains a top draw for international tourists. The city’s appeal is enhanced by excellent connectivity, particularly through low-cost airlines, making it a popular choice for both foreign tourists and expatriates. Among the most frequent visitors are French nationals, who continue to make up the largest group of international arrivals. British tourists are also contributing to the surge, with a remarkable 47% increase in 2024 compared to the previous year.
Factors driving growth in Morocco’s tourism
This remarkable growth is attributed to Morocco’s targeted efforts to promote its diverse tourism offerings, alongside geopolitical factors. For example, some travellers shifted their plans from Lebanon to Morocco, drawn by the country’s stability amid regional tensions.
Tourism is a significant contributor to Morocco’s economy, accounting for 7 percent of GDP. In 2024 alone, the sector generated €9.2bn, and experts expect this figure to continue rising as the year progresses.
France’s strong influence on visitor numbers
France’s influence on Morocco’s tourism is evident, with 34 direct flights connecting the two countries. French nationals remain the largest foreign visitor group, although there has been a notable rise in British tourism, further solidifying Morocco’s status as a top global destination.
Rising popularity of other destinations
Aside from Marrakech, other Moroccan cities like Agadir, Tangier, and Casablanca continue to attract visitors. Casablanca remains particularly appealing to business travellers, adding a different dimension to Morocco’s tourism landscape.
Future prospects for Moroccan tourism
Looking ahead, Morocco’s tourism sector shows no signs of slowing down. The country is set to host the Africa Cup of Nations (CAN) in 2025, which is expected to bring around 500,000 visitors. Moreover, Morocco’s co-hosting of the 2030 FIFA World Cup will undoubtedly elevate its global profile even further.
As Morocco sets its sights on new tourism records, its growing appeal as a key travel destination solidifies its role in the global tourism industry.
