Casablanca – Morocco’s tourism sector is closing 2025 on a historic note, after attracting 18 million visitors during the first eleven months of the year. The announcement, shared by the Ministry of Tourism, Handicrafts, and Social and Solidarity Economy, confirms that the country has exceeded the total number of arrivals recorded throughout 2024 by more than 600,000 additional tourists. The figure marks the highest number ever achieved by the Moroccan tourism industry.

A year defined by exceptional growth

According to the ministry, the sector recorded a 13.5% increase in tourist arrivals compared with the same period last year. This sustained momentum comes as Morocco continues to position itself as one of the Mediterranean region’s most competitive destinations.

Officials attribute this progress to a combination of strengthened international connectivity, targeted global promotion, and reforms implemented under the 2023–2026 tourism roadmap. This strategy has focused on increasing flight capacity, enhancing destination visibility in key markets, and diversifying tourism products to accommodate leisure, cultural, adventure, and business segments.

In parallel, national carriers and international airlines have expanded their routes to Morocco, particularly toward cities such as Marrakech, Casablanca, Agadir, Tangier, Rabat, and Dakhla. This expansion has facilitated smoother travel and contributed directly to the rising flow of international visitors.

Impact of the 2023–2026 roadmap

The ministry’s statement highlights the effectiveness of strategic investments undertaken over the last three years. Initiatives within the tourism roadmap include upgrading accommodation capacity, supporting the development of authentic cultural circuits, modernizing hospitality services, and introducing programs promoting eco-tourism and sustainable travel.

Morocco’s efforts to diversify its market appeal are also evident. Traditional destinations such as Marrakech and Fez continue to attract millions of travelers, while emerging areas like Dakhla, Merzouga, Ouarzazate, and northern coastal cities are gaining traction thanks to new marketing campaigns and upgraded infrastructure.

International platforms such as Travel and Tour World have recognized Morocco as one of 2025’s best-performing destinations, noting strong demand driven by cultural attractions, heritage tourism, desert experiences, and hiking routes in the Atlas Mountains. The same report highlighted that Morocco recorded 35% growth in arrivals in 2024 compared with the pre-pandemic benchmark of 2019.

Tourism revenues reach new highs

Tourism revenues have closely mirrored the surge in arrivals. By the end of October 2025, receipts reached more than $11.5 billion. This figure surpasses the total revenue generated in 2024 and represents an increase of more than $1.6 billion, compared with the same ten-month period last year.

The data confirms tourism’s status as one of Morocco’s most vital economic pillars, contributing significantly to foreign exchange earnings and supporting thousands of jobs across hospitality, aviation, transport, crafts, retail, and food services.

CAN 2025: a major catalyst for December tourism

With Morocco set to host the Africa Cup of Nations (CAN 2025), authorities expect December to deliver an additional and possibly exceptional surge in tourist arrivals.

Large sporting events traditionally generate strong demand for accommodation, domestic transport, leisure activities, restaurants, and local commerce. Hosting the tournament is expected to bring tens of thousands of visitors, including fans from across the continent, delegations from participating countries, media professionals, and international observers.

Beyond short-term numbers, the CAN is also anticipated to have a lasting impact on Morocco’s global visibility. The tournament will broadcast images of Moroccan cities, stadiums, cultural sites, and landscapes to millions of viewers worldwide, reinforcing the country’s position as a capable host for international events and as an attractive tourism destination.

Strengthening global positioning

According to tourism officials, Morocco is increasingly recognized for its cultural richness, combining Amazigh, Arab, African, and European influences. Historic centers like Fez and Marrakech, the Roman ruins of Volubilis, the ksour and kasbahs of the south, and vibrant souks remain major attractions for travelers seeking immersive experiences.

At the same time, desert trekking, camel expeditions, coastal surfing routes, and mountainous hiking trails continue to attract adventure and nature-oriented tourists.

Outlook: a strong end to 2025 and positive momentum for 2026

With 18 million visitors already recorded and a major continental tournament underway, Morocco is on track for a landmark year in tourism. Officials expect the sector to close 2025 with record-breaking figures and enter 2026 with strong momentum.

Continued implementation of the tourism roadmap, combined with recent infrastructure upgrades and expanding air connectivity, positions Morocco favorably for sustained growth. As the country prepares for additional international events and consolidates its presence in major source markets, the tourism industry is expected to remain a key driver of economic development and job creation.