Morocco’s tourism sector achieved positive results during the summer of 2024, Fatim-Zahra Ammor, Minister of Tourism, Handicrafts, and Social and Solidarity Economy, told Morocco’s News Agency (MAP).
“While all indicators are still under review, preliminary data for the summer season 2024 point to a positive outcome,” Minister Ammor said.
July 2024 yielded particularly notable results, with 2.6 million tourists visiting Morocco, a 20% increase year-over-year representing an additional 424,000 visitors.
The increase includes a 23% rise in Moroccan expatriates (MRE) and a 14% increase in foreign tourists.
Ammor said that the encouraging results are also reflected in the high stay rates at tourist accommodation establishments (EHTC) across several regions of Morocco.
“During July and August, the region of Souss-Massa, in the south, recorded an 8% surge in guest nights and a 4% growth in arrivals at EHTC,” she added.
For the northern region, including Tangier, Asilah, and Mdiq-Fnideq, there was a 12% increase in overnight stays and an 11% rise in arrivals.
The minister reported that Marrakech, renowned for its tourism appeal, witnessed a 6% surge in lodging stays and an 8% growth in arrivals. Dakhla-Oued Eddahab was also highlighted as an emerging destination for beach tourism and water sports.
Morocco’s southwestern region saw a significant increase in visitor numbers during the summer season, with a 32% rise in arrivals and a 5% growth in overnight stays.
July’s tourism figures for the eastern region of the Kingdom fell below projection. The minister announced a partial recovery in August, with a 5% increase in overnight stays and a 3% rise in arrivals at EHTCs compared to August 2023.
The positive results illustrate Morocco’s growing popularity as a tourist destination, affirming the success of the strategies outlined in the tourism roadmap. She highlighted the data’s tangible impact on the Moroccan economy, including job creation, regional development, and overall economic stimulation.
Ammor is optimistic about the future of Moroccan tourism and anticipates positive outcomes based on a well-designed national strategy, supported by tangible measures and targeted investments outlined in the 2025 budget. There is also the expectation that international events will have a significant impact.