Marrakech's Tourism Boom: 13.6 Million Overnight Stays in 2025

Marrakech has emerged as a leading destination in Morocco, recording more than 13.6 million overnight stays in classified tourist accommodations in 2025. This impressive figure represents nearly one-third of the total overnight stays across the country, underscoring the city’s role as a major hub for international tourism. From January to May 2026 alone, Marrakech welcomed over 1.65 million visitors, contributing nearly 4.7 million overnight stays. This upward trend in tourism is fueled by expanded international air connections and the introduction of new hotel brands, which collectively enhance the city's attractiveness to travelers.

Water Resource Strain Due to Tourism Growth

However, the flourishing tourism sector brings to light significant challenges, particularly concerning water resources in the Marrakech basin. The region is currently experiencing severe water stress characterized by prolonged droughts, reduced precipitation, and dwindling groundwater levels. The hospitality sector, which includes hotels, swimming pools, gardens, water parks, and golf courses, demands substantial water resources. This high demand exacerbates the existing competition for water between the tourism sector, the local population, and agricultural needs.

To mitigate the impact on potable water supplies, eight golf courses and parts of the palm grove are now irrigated using treated wastewater. This initiative aims to conserve drinking water reserves while ensuring that the tourism industry can sustain itself. Additionally, many tourism establishments are adopting environmentally friendly practices, such as installing photovoltaic panels, implementing thermal regulation systems, and utilizing water-saving technologies, alongside waste sorting and recycling initiatives.

The surge in tourist numbers also puts pressure on urban infrastructure, affecting traffic flow, air quality, waste management, urbanization, and the preservation of the Medina's heritage. To address these urban challenges, the development of clean public transport systems and pedestrian-friendly pathways is being considered as part of the strategic response to the growing tourism demands in Marrakech.

As reported by consonews.ma.