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Tourism

Morocco's Tourism Surge: 11.8 Million Visitors Signal Strong Recovery in 2024

Saturday 28 September 2024 - 09:22 Journalists: Dakir Madiha

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Morocco's tourism sector is experiencing a remarkable resurgence, with the country welcoming 11.8 million tourists by the end of August 2024. This impressive figure represents a 16% increase compared to the same period last year, according to data released by the Directorate of Financial Studies and Forecasts (DEPF) under the Ministry of Economy and Finance.

The surge in visitor numbers translates to an additional 1.6 million arrivals, demonstrating the country's growing appeal as a travel destination. This upward trend is not limited to tourist arrivals alone; the hospitality sector has also seen significant growth. By the end of July 2024, classified accommodations reported 15.4 million overnight stays, marking an 8% year-on-year increase.

DEPF highlighted that this positive momentum is evident across various segments of the tourism industry. Notably, non-resident overnight stays have shown a particularly strong performance, with a 13% increase.

The financial impact of this tourism boom is substantial. Tourism revenues reached approximately 59.4 billion Moroccan dirhams by the end of July, reflecting a 3.5% increase compared to the previous year. The third quarter of 2024 started on a high note, with a 9.5% increase in tourism revenue, following a 9.4% rise in the second quarter. However, it's worth noting that the first quarter experienced a slight decline of 4.2%.

Looking ahead, the future appears bright for Morocco's tourism sector. Consulting firm Fitch Solutions projects 15.4 million arrivals in Morocco by the end of 2024, forecasting a 6.2% increase from the previous year. This optimistic outlook is particularly impressive considering the challenges faced by the industry, including the lingering effects of the pandemic and the September 2023 earthquake, which initially dampened projections.

Key European and Middle Eastern markets are driving this growth, with popular destinations like Marrakech and Agadir seeing significant increases in visitor numbers. The Moroccan government is not resting on its laurels, however. Recognizing the importance of sustaining this upward trajectory, authorities are focusing on enhancing tourism offerings to ensure the country remains an attractive destination for international travelers.

As Morocco continues to solidify its position as a top tourist destination, the sector's resilience and ability to adapt to changing global circumstances are becoming increasingly evident. With strategic investments and a focus on diverse offerings, Morocco's tourism industry is well-positioned to capitalize on the growing international appetite for travel and unique cultural experiences.