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Adil El Fakir's Tourism Expertise Propels Him to Lead Morocco's Airport Authority

Adil El Fakir's Tourism Expertise Propels Him to Lead Morocco's Airport Authority
Monday 03 June 2024 - 10:45
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In a strategic move, the Moroccan government has appointed Adil El Fakir, a seasoned professional in the tourism sector, as the new General Director of the National Airports Authority (ONDA). El Fakir's extensive experience in the tourism industry positions him as an ideal candidate to spearhead the nation's airport operations.

The ministerial council, held at the royal palace in Casablanca on Saturday, witnessed a series of key appointments, with El Fakir's selection as the head of ONDA being a notable highlight. King Mohammed VI approved the appointments, underscoring the significance of the roles entrusted to these leaders.

El Fakir's journey in the tourism realm began in 2018 when he assumed the role of the head of the Moroccan National Tourist Office (ONMT). During his tenure, he orchestrated several pivotal initiatives that contributed to the growth and development of Morocco's tourism sector.

One such initiative was the formulation of the "Light in Action" action plan for 2023-2026, a comprehensive roadmap focused on marketing, airline partnerships, digital transformation, and distribution strategies. The ambitious plan aims to attract 17.5 million tourists to Morocco by 2026, generating over $11 billion in revenue and creating 200,000 new employment opportunities.

Morocco's tourism sector has witnessed remarkable growth, with 14.5 million tourists visiting the country in the previous year. The nation aims to welcome an additional 15.5 million tourists in the current year, solidifying its position as a prime destination.

Adil El Fakir's educational background complements his professional experience. He holds an MBA from the esteemed Ecole des Ponts ParisTech, a degree in marketing studies from the University of Social Sciences in Toulouse, and a master's degree from the Moroccan Institute of Commerce and Management.

Prior to his role at ONMT, El Fakir held various positions, including Director of the advertising agency at Morocco's television company SNRT, Deputy Director General of Atlas Bottling Company, and Regional Marketing Director for North and Equatorial Africa at the Coca-Cola company.

As Morocco sets its sights on hosting the 2030 World Cup alongside Portugal and Spain, the nation's ambitious goal of attracting 26 million tourists by 2030 underscores the importance of El Fakir's appointment. His expertise in the tourism sector will undoubtedly prove invaluable in enhancing Morocco's airport operations and ensuring a seamless travel experience for the influx of visitors.

With Adil El Fakir at the helm of ONDA, Morocco's airport infrastructure is poised to undergo transformative changes, aligning with the nation's vision of becoming a premier tourism destination on the global stage.


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