Former Chinese Ambassador to Morocco Writes on: “Growing Enthusiasm Among Chinese Travelers for Morocco”

ALDAR/

Li Changlin, former Chinese Ambassador to Morocco, stated that the Kingdom is witnessing a notable increase in the number of Chinese tourists, noting that Morocco is gradually transitioning from an “exclusive, niche destination” into a major global travel hub with an expanding presence in the Chinese market.

The Chinese diplomat explained that Morocco has recorded record figures in both international tourist arrivals and sector revenues, strengthening its position as Africa’s leading tourist destination and placing it among the world’s most dynamic travel markets.

In this context, Li Changlin pointed out that Chinese travelers have become one of Morocco’s fastest-growing source markets, with expectations that this upward trend will continue in the coming years.

The former ambassador attributed this growing interest to several factors, foremost among them the Kingdom’s rich cultural heritage and geographical diversity. Cities such as the blue-hued Chefchaouen; Casablanca, home to the Hassan II Mosque; Marrakech and its iconic Jemaa el-Fna square; and Fez, with its ancient alleyways—alongside the golden dunes of the Moroccan desert and the extensive coastlines stretching between the Mediterranean and the Atlantic—offer diverse travel experiences that blend history, culture, and nature.

Regarding safety, Li Changlin emphasized that Morocco has been classified as a “low-risk” country in Africa by international risk analysis platforms, making it the only country in North Africa to receive this rating. This classification, he noted, provides greater reassurance to Chinese tourists and enhances Morocco’s appeal as a travel destination.

The author also conveyed impressions from several Chinese visitors to the Kingdom, some of whom described Morocco as “the African country that least resembles Africa,” referring to its cultural uniqueness, diverse civilizational influences, and its distinction from prevailing stereotypes about the continent. They also highlighted Morocco’s natural beauty and rich culinary heritage, describing it as a destination that is both breathtaking and culturally vibrant.

The former ambassador further noted that the visa exemption policy introduced in 2016 marked a significant turning point in the flow of Chinese tourists, as it simplified travel procedures and made Morocco more accessible. He added that the resumption of direct flights between the two countries has helped shorten travel time and improve the overall travel experience.

Li Changlin also underscored the joint promotional efforts between Moroccan and Chinese tourism institutions, awareness campaigns organized within China, and the growing influence of Chinese social media platforms in disseminating travel content about Morocco particularly among young people seeking new and distinctive experiences.
He concluded that the strategic relations between Morocco and China, coupled with upcoming international events most notably the 2030 FIFA World Cup serve as strong drivers for further increasing the number of Chinese tourists to the Kingdom and consolidating its status as a promising global destination in the eyes of Chinese travelers.