Significant Growth in Domestic Tourism
As the tourism landscape continues to evolve, Morocco has seen a remarkable surge in domestic travel, generating over 121 million overnight stays in 2025, which accounts for 28% of the total tourism figures. In response to this growing enthusiasm, the Moroccan government is ramping up efforts to modernize infrastructure and enhance training programs aimed at solidifying this vital economic sector. The travel preferences of Moroccans are rapidly changing, with family trips dominating the landscape while alternative options such as tourist residences, camping, and nature excursions gain popularity. This shift has been instrumental in achieving the unprecedented volume of 121 million overnight stays last year. According to Fatim-Zahra Ammor, the Minister of Tourism, the local clientele has now become 'an essential pillar in strengthening the resilience of the sector.'
Strategic Initiatives for Sustainable Development
In light of parliamentary inquiries, Minister Ammor emphasized the urgency of balancing international and national tourism flows to ensure the sustainability of the industry. The current focus is to structure a competitive offering while promoting emerging destinations. The National Office of Moroccan Tourism (ONMT) is adjusting its promotional strategy to stimulate demand outside the summer season, enabling consistent profitability for accommodation providers throughout the year. To support this roadmap extending through 2026, the government is implementing significant qualitative reforms. The newly enacted Law 80.14 on tourist establishments introduces unprecedented control mechanisms, including secret inspections. Concurrently, the ministry is investing in human resources through the 'Go Siyaha' program to support businesses in the sector. The state plans to train 9,500 middle management professionals within the next two years and launch the 'Kafaa' initiative, aimed at officially recognizing the skills of experienced, non-graduate professionals.
Morocco welcomed 4.3 million tourists between January and March 2026, marking a 7% increase, driven by an exceptional March that underscores the sector's dynamic nature bolstered by enhanced air connectivity and substantial investments. The country achieved a record 138 billion dirhams in tourism revenue in 2025, a 21% rise, surpassing strategic goals with 20 million visitors and marking a significant leap towards international prominence. This exceptional year for Moroccan tourism, which saw nearly 19.8 million visitors, showcases the effectiveness of ongoing reforms and inches the nation closer to the symbolic milestone of 20 million arrivals.
As reported by bladi.net.
