In 2024, Morocco’s tourism industry reached unprecedented heights, welcoming 17.4 million international visitors—a 20% increase from the previous year and a significant leap from pre-pandemic figures.

This remarkable growth is attributed to strategic initiatives such as the introduction of 120 new airline routes, including American Airlines’ direct Newark-Marrakech flight, and the opening of luxury hotels by renowned brands like Four Seasons and Nobu. These developments have not only enhanced accessibility but also elevated the country’s appeal to global travelers.

Tourism Minister Fatim-Zahra Ammor lauded this achievement, stating, “This milestone brings us closer to our goal of ranking among the world’s top 15 tourist destinations.”

Looking ahead, Morocco is set to host major football events, including the Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) in 2025 and the FIFA World Cup in 2030, co-hosted with Spain and Portugal. These tournaments are expected to further boost tourism, with projections indicating annual arrivals could reach 26 million by the end of the decade.

To accommodate this anticipated influx, the government plans to expand airport capacities to handle 80 million passengers by 2030, up from the current 38 million. This includes significant expansions at Casablanca, Marrakech, and Agadir airports.

Additionally, investments are being made to upgrade stadiums and infrastructure, including the construction of a new 115,000-seat stadium near Casablanca, positioning Morocco as a premier destination for both tourism and international football.