Casablanca – Morocco’s currency exchange market has experienced a marked increase in activity in recent weeks, driven by the combined impact of the Africa Cup of Nations “Morocco 2025” and the seasonal surge in travel associated with the New Year holiday period. The overlap between a major continental sporting event and year-end mobility has created sustained demand for foreign exchange services, particularly in large urban centers.

The Africa Cup of Nations, currently being hosted across several Moroccan cities, has attracted a significant influx of international visitors. Supporters from Africa, Europe, and other regions have traveled to Morocco to follow their national teams, contributing to increased demand for the Moroccan dirham and other local financial services. Cities hosting matches have seen the most pronounced effects, reflecting both the concentration of games and the broader tourism activity that accompanies such events.

Professionals operating in the currency exchange sector report that transaction volumes have risen steadily over the past two weeks. This period coincides not only with the start of the continental competition but also with the traditional year-end holiday season, a time when cross-border travel typically reaches high levels. Large numbers of Moroccans living abroad, particularly in European countries, have returned home during this period, adding to the flow of foreign currencies entering the domestic market.

In central districts of cities such as Rabat, Casablanca, Tangier, Agadir, Fes and Marrakech, the increased activity is clearly visible. Licensed currency exchange offices have reported consistent demand from foreign tourists and returning expatriates seeking to convert euros, U.S. dollars, and other foreign currencies into dirhams. In tourist-heavy neighborhoods, this demand has extended beyond formal exchange offices to include intermediaries, highlighting the scale of the movement.

Sector observers note that the current level of activity is not merely a short-lived spike, but rather the result of converging factors. The Africa Cup of Nations, now in its 35th edition, is among the largest international events ever hosted by Morocco in terms of attendance and geographic spread. Its economic spillover effects extend beyond hospitality and transport to include financial services such as currency exchange.

At the same time, the year-end holiday period has amplified these effects. The return of Moroccans residing abroad is a recurring feature of the winter season, as expatriates travel home to spend the holidays with their families. These visits typically involve currency exchange to cover daily expenses, family support, and local consumption. This year, the coincidence with the Africa Cup has pushed demand levels to a point that professionals describe as comparable to, and in some cases higher than, the peak summer season.

Operational conditions have also played a role in supporting the sector during this high-demand period. Recent regulatory measures introduced by the Exchange Office have provided greater flexibility for currency exchange agents. These measures include expanded options for the use of international bank cards and the distribution of prepaid payment cards, allowing visitors to access funds more easily and reducing reliance on cash transactions alone. Professionals say these tools have helped improve service flow and reduce pressure on exchange counters during peak hours.

Demand during the current period has been particularly concentrated on major international currencies, most notably the euro and the U.S. dollar. This pattern reflects the origin of many visitors, as well as the financial habits of Moroccans living abroad, who often maintain savings in foreign currencies. The sustained interest in these denominations has contributed to higher overall turnover in foreign exchange operations compared with quieter periods of the year.

From a broader economic perspective, the rise in currency exchange activity is viewed as an indirect indicator of increased tourism and mobility. The strong attendance at Africa Cup matches underscores Morocco’s growing role as a host for large-scale international events, while the steady return of the diaspora highlights the country’s deep connections with global migration networks, particularly in Europe.

While professionals caution that the current surge is partly seasonal, many agree that it demonstrates the importance of major events and regulatory readiness in supporting financial services. As the Africa Cup of Nations continues and holiday travel remains active, currency exchange activity is expected to stay elevated, especially in cities hosting matches and popular tourist destinations.

The convergence of international sport, tourism, and year-end travel has created a favorable environment for Morocco’s currency exchange sector, illustrating how major events and seasonal trends can combine to generate short-term momentum across multiple areas of economic activity.