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Tourism

Morocco: A Rising Star in Tourism, Crowned 'Best Destination 2024'

Friday 20 September 2024 - 11:32

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In a significant development for the tourism industry, Morocco has emerged as the 'Best Destination for 2024' according to the Arabian Tourism Association. This prestigious recognition was bestowed upon the North African nation at the International French Travel Market (IFTM) - Top Résa in Paris, a major event in the French and European tourism calendar.

Morocco's presence at the salon was a showcase of its diverse and rich tourism offerings, with a strategically located pavilion at the heart of the event (September 17-19). The Moroccan pavilion, meticulously designed by the Moroccan National Office of Tourism (ONMT), featured 28 exhibitors representing public and private tourism stakeholders in the Kingdom, including RAM, regional and provincial tourism centers, travel agencies, and hotel groups. Together, they aimed to provide a comprehensive and highly visible representation of Morocco, highlighting its myriad attractions.

The Moroccan stand, spanning an impressive 300 square meters, attracted a large number of visitors, both individuals and professionals interested in partnership and business opportunities with the national exhibitors. Additionally, the pavilion featured dedicated spaces for the regions of Dakhla and Fès-Meknès, covering a total area of 490 square meters. According to the ONMT, these regions were chosen for their importance in developing Morocco's tourism offerings in France and supporting existing air connections.

The salon also provided an opportunity for the Arabian Tourism Association, a non-profit organization dedicated to promoting tourism in the Middle East and North Africa, to bestow a prestigious award upon Morocco. The Kingdom was elected as the "Best Destination for 2024," with the award presented to Jihad Chakib, the ONMT's delegate in Paris, following a vote by travel agents at the second edition of the Trophées du Tourisme des Pays Arabes du Monde, held under the theme "For Better Service Quality."

IFTM Top Resa is a key event in the French and European tourism industry, offering a 360-degree vision of travel, covering all types of trips, be it leisure, business, or events. It is the only B2B salon that brings together all tourism industry professionals in Paris each year. With 1400 brands, 170 international destinations, and 90 conferences and debates, IFTM Top Resa provides a comprehensive immersion into the world of travel, showcasing the entire expertise chain of the market. In 2023, the salon recorded 30,349 professional visitors (up from 29,475 in 2022).

This recognition for Morocco is a testament to its growing appeal as a tourism destination, and the country's efforts to promote its diverse offerings on the international stage.