Morocco's Tourism Sector Gears Up for Major International Events
As Morocco prepares to host the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations and the 2030 FIFA World Cup, the country is actively stimulating investments in its tourism sector. Moroccan Tourism Minister Fatima Zahra Ammor announced that the nation aims to attract 26 million tourists by 2030, building on a record-breaking year where 15.9 million tourists visited in the first 11 months of 2023. This growth reflects Morocco's strategic vision to enhance its tourism appeal and infrastructure.
Investment and Infrastructure Development
In a meeting held in Rabat, Minister Ammor highlighted the government's commitment to providing 150,000 hotel beds by 2030 and improving the entertainment offerings across the country. The Moroccan government has allocated approximately 6.1 billion dirhams (around $598 million) to a comprehensive roadmap for the tourism sector spanning from 2023 to 2026. This initiative aims to establish a world-class tourism industry that can support the influx of visitors expected for the upcoming international competitions.
Economic Impact of Upcoming Events
The 2030 FIFA World Cup is viewed not only as a sporting event but also as a significant opportunity for economic growth. According to Fouzi Lekjaa, Morocco’s Minister Delegate in charge of the Budget, the tournament is expected to create jobs, boost tourism, and promote sustainable development. Tourism remains a vital source of foreign exchange for Morocco, generating $10 billion in revenue in 2023, second only to remittances from Moroccan expatriates.