Morocco Witnesses an Unprecedented Tourism Boom: 8.9 Million Visitors in the First Half of 2025
ALDAR/ Zakaria El Jabri
In a fresh triumph for Morocco’s national tourism strategy, the Ministry of Tourism, Handicrafts, and Social and Solidarity Economy announced that 8.9 million tourists visited Morocco in the first half of 2025, marking a 19% increase compared to the same period in 2024—equivalent to 1.4 million additional visitors.
Official data reveals that June alone recorded 1.7 million tourists, an 11% rise from June 2024, making it the highest monthly figure in Moroccan tourism history. This performance underscores the sector’s resilience and steady growth, driven by enhanced air connectivity, diversification of source markets, and the growing global appeal of Morocco’s tourism brand.
From the beginning of the year to the end of May, 7.2 million visitors had already arrived in the country—a 22% increase compared to the previous year, and an impressive 68% growth over pre-pandemic 2019 levels. This momentum reinforces Morocco’s position as a reliable destination for travelers seeking a rich mix of culture, nature, and sunshine.
These results are no coincidence. They stem from a clear strategic vision that includes the expansion of low-cost airline routes, the launch of over 14 new air connections, and a major investment plan to improve infrastructure—ranging from hotel expansion to the restoration of historic sites and development of natural resorts.
In terms of revenue, tourism receipts exceeded 31.2 billion dirhams in Q1 alone, reflecting an 18% increase compared to the same period in 2024. For the full year 2024, tourism brought in 112 billion dirhams, accounting for more than 7% of the national GDP. The sector also plays a vital role in employment, directly supporting around 550,000 jobs, in addition to thousands more in traditional crafts and related services.
Yet, challenges remain—most notably, the sector’s ability to meet rising demand, especially during the current summer season. According to Tourism Minister Fatim-Zahra Ammor, the government’s focus is on strengthening air connectivity, expanding hotel capacity, and broadening tourism offerings to attract high-spending travelers.
In the medium term, Morocco aims to welcome 15 million tourists by the end of 2025, with a long-term goal of 20 million by 2030, while raising tourism revenues to over 150 billion dirhams annually.
Ultimately, this growth reflects a fundamental shift in Morocco’s tourism model: from a largely seasonal, beach-focused destination to a year-round, multi-dimensional experience that appeals to travelers drawn to culture, luxury, sustainability, and digital innovation. It lays the foundation for balanced and sustainable growth that reaches deep into the broader national economy.
