Morocco tourist arrivals increase by 20% in 2024- Tourism Ministry

MOROCCO – In its most recent report, the Ministry of Tourism revealed the North African country welcomed more than 17 million tourists in 2024, a 20% increase compared to 2023, surpassing its 2026 goal.

Morocco’s tourism sector experienced significant growth in 2024, with visitor numbers increasing by approximately three million compared to the previous year, according to a statement from the tourism ministry, reported by the official news agency MAP.

This growth was primarily driven by the influx of 8.8 million foreign tourists and 8.6 million Moroccans living abroad.

The ministry noted that slightly over half of the tourists were foreigners, while the remainder were Moroccan expatriates, with both categories showing growth from 2023. This surge also marked a 35% increase over the figures recorded in 2019.

Tourism Minister Fatim-Zahra Ammor highlighted this positive trend as evidence of Morocco’s substantial progress under the leadership of King Mohammed VI.

She credited the sector’s exceptional performance to strategic government investments and the consistent efforts of industry professionals.

Ammor emphasized that the country reached its ambitious goal of 17 million tourists ahead of its 2026 target, underscoring the effectiveness of government initiatives in the tourism industry.

The ministry reaffirmed its commitment to enhancing the tourism sector through collaborative efforts with the Moroccan Tourism Office (ONMT).

These initiatives aim to attract more visitors through organic growth and partnerships with global travel agencies and airlines.

Recent investments in modernizing airports, expanding public transportation, and upgrading the hospitality sector have been central to Morocco’s strategy to strengthen its tourism appeal.

Looking ahead, Morocco aims to welcome 26 million tourists by 2030, bolstered by its role as a co-host of the 2030 FIFA World Cup alongside Spain and Portugal.

In 2023, tourism contributed around 7% to the national GDP and supported approximately two million jobs, with updated figures for 2024 yet to be released.

To sustain this momentum, Morocco continues to invest in hotel and commercial infrastructure, expand air routes, and forge partnerships with low-cost airlines such as Ireland-based Ryanair, further solidifying its position as a leading tourist destination.

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