Morocco emerges as a prime destination for tourism investors

Monday 10 March 2025 - 08:00

By: Dakir Madiha

Morocco emerges as a prime destination for tourism investors

A recent report from the United Nations World Tourism Organization (UNWTO) has highlighted Morocco as an outstanding destination for investors in the tourism sector. The findings, released by the Madrid-based agency, showcase the country’s unique tourism assets that not only attract global visitors but also potential investors.

According to UNWTO Secretary-General Zurab Pololikashvili, Morocco presents compelling opportunities for investors due to its strategic location, favorable economic conditions, and proactive policies aimed at promoting foreign direct investment (FDI). The country’s FDI flows have averaged approximately $3.5 billion annually over the past five years, reflecting its robust economic environment.

Between 2014 and 2023, accumulated investments in Morocco’s tourism industry reached 2.2 billion. Hotel infrastructure development attracted an additional 2.2 billion, with further investments reaching 2.6 billion from 2015 to 2024. This significant financial influx underscores the growing confidence in Morocco as a tourism investment hub.

In 2024, Morocco experienced remarkable growth in tourism, welcoming 17.4 million visitors, a notable 35% increase compared to 2019. This surge has substantially boosted the sector’s contribution to the national GDP, rising from 3.7% in 2020 to 7.3% in 2023.

The UN report emphasizes several factors contributing to Morocco’s attractiveness for tourism investors, including its geographic proximity to Europe, access to a vast market of 2.5 billion consumers, and a rich cultural and natural heritage. The country is home to nine UNESCO World Heritage sites, 11 national parks, and boasts a well-developed infrastructure featuring 19 airports, 27 commercial ports, and 2,000 kilometers of highways.

Furthermore, Morocco has emerged as the African destination with the highest growth in tourism revenues, achieving a 43% increase since 2019. Total revenue from tourism reached $10.5 billion in 2023, marking a 28% rise compared to the previous year.

UNWTO Executive Director Natalia Bayona praised Morocco’s economic stability, noting that it ranks as Africa’s fifth-largest economy by GDP, with a consistent annual growth rate of 2.5% over the past decade. Projections suggest economic growth will reach 4% in 2025 and 3.6% in 2026, bolstered by controlled inflation that enhances the country’s investment appeal.

Morocco’s tourism sector has also seen a significant increase in accommodation capacity of over 60% since 2012. The Moroccan Tourism Engineering Company continues to provide specialized support to investment project leaders, reinforcing the country’s position as an attractive destination for tourism investments.