Casablanca – In recent years, Morocco has emerged as one of the most attractive destinations for tourism investment in Africa, thanks to its strategic location, robust infrastructure, and government policies designed to encourage foreign direct investment (FDI). According to a series of reports from UN Tourism and various industry sources, Morocco’s tourism sector has seen remarkable growth, solidifying the country’s position as a key player in the global tourism market.

Tourism growth and economic impact

Morocco’s tourism sector has demonstrated impressive growth in recent years. In 2024, the country welcomed 17.4 million international visitors, marking a 35% increase in arrivals compared to 2019. This surge in tourism contributed significantly to the country’s economic recovery, especially after the challenges posed by the COVID-19 pandemic.

As a result of this growth, the tourism sector has increased its contribution to Morocco’s Gross Domestic Product (GDP). In 2023, tourism accounted for 7.3% of the country’s GDP, a sharp rise from 3.7% in 2020. This growth in tourism receipts has helped Morocco position itself as the best-performing tourism destination in Africa, with the highest increase in tourism revenue compared to 2019 levels. In fact, international tourism revenue reached USD 10.5 billion in 2023, reflecting a 28% increase over the previous year, and marking a 43% growth since 2019.

Foreign direct investment (FDI) in tourism

Morocco’s growth trajectory has also been reflected in its ability to attract foreign investment, particularly in the tourism sector. Over the last five years, the country has averaged an impressive USD 3.5 billion in FDI annually across all sectors. Of this, the tourism sector alone has benefitted from USD 2.2 billion in investment between 2014 and 2023. Furthermore, greenfield investments, which refer to investments in new projects, reached USD 2.6 billion between 2015 and 2024. These investments have been crucial in developing Morocco’s tourism infrastructure, including hotels, resorts, and other hospitality services.

The continued growth in FDI is a testament to Morocco’s economic resilience and the attractiveness of its tourism sector. The country’s favorable investment climate, coupled with its rich cultural heritage and modern infrastructure, has made it a preferred destination for investors seeking to capitalize on the burgeoning tourism market in Africa.

A strategic location with strong infrastructure

Morocco’s strategic geographic location is another key factor that has contributed to its growing prominence as a tourism hub. Situated just 14 kilometers from Europe, the country serves as a gateway between Africa and Europe, offering investors access to a market of approximately 2.5 billion consumers. This proximity to major global markets has allowed Morocco to benefit from a steady stream of international visitors, particularly from Europe, which remains the largest source of tourism to the country.

In addition to its location, Morocco boasts top-tier infrastructure that supports the growth of the tourism sector. The country is equipped with 19 airports, 27 commercial ports, and a vast network of 2,000 kilometers of highways. These facilities have made Morocco an increasingly accessible destination for tourists and investors alike. The country’s infrastructure has also been bolstered by significant investments, including a 60% increase in accommodation capacity between 2012 and 2023.

A rich cultural and natural heritage

Morocco’s appeal as a tourist destination is further enhanced by its rich cultural and natural heritage. The country is home to nine UNESCO World Heritage Sites, including historic cities like Marrakesh, Fes, and Meknes, as well as stunning landscapes such as the Atlas Mountains and the Sahara Desert. In addition to these cultural treasures, Morocco boasts 11 national parks that offer unique opportunities for eco-tourism.

The diverse cultural and natural offerings of Morocco make it an attractive destination for a wide range of tourists, from history and culture enthusiasts to adventure seekers. These assets also provide ample opportunities for investors looking to develop tourism-related projects, particularly in the growing fields of cultural tourism and eco-tourism.

Government support and future outlook

The Moroccan government has played a central role in fostering the growth of the tourism sector. Through its Tourism Development Strategy 2023-2026, the government has outlined a series of strategic priorities aimed at boosting both international and domestic tourism. These priorities include enhancing the quality of tourism services, promoting Morocco’s unique cultural and natural attractions, and investing in the development of sustainable tourism infrastructure.

In addition, Morocco’s business-friendly environment has been reinforced by policies that support foreign investment, such as competitive production costs and a skilled workforce. The Moroccan Agency for Tourism Development (SMIT) provides dedicated support to investors, offering guidance throughout the investment process and helping to navigate the country’s regulatory landscape.

Looking ahead, Morocco’s tourism sector is poised for continued growth. The country’s economic outlook remains positive, with projections indicating 4% growth in 2025 and 3.6% growth in 2026. The controlled inflation rate and stable political and socio-economic environment further enhance Morocco’s attractiveness as a stable and reliable destination for investment.

Morocco’s tourism sector has become one of the country’s most important economic pillars, contributing significantly to GDP and attracting substantial foreign direct investment. With its strategic location, rich cultural heritage, world-class infrastructure, and investment-friendly environment, Morocco is well-positioned to continue its upward trajectory in the global tourism market. As a result, the country remains an appealing destination for investors looking to capitalize on the dynamic growth of the African tourism industry.