Morocco welcomed a record 19.8 million tourists in 2025, marking a strong rebound for its tourism industry and underlining the sector’s growing importance to the country’s economy, the government has said.
The figure represents a 14 percent increase compared with 2024, according to a statement released on Monday by the Ministry of Tourism, Handicrafts and Social and Solidarity Economy.
Officials described the performance as a turning point for the sector.
“This record-breaking performance confirms the strong upward momentum of Morocco’s hospitality industry and marks a new chapter in the development of the tourism sector,” the ministry said.
Tourism revenues also rose sharply. By the end of November, receipts had reached 124 billion Moroccan dirhams, equivalent to about US$13.6 billion up 19 percent from the same period a year earlier.
The ministry said the revenue growth represented a “strategic milestone” and was consistent with Morocco’s longer-term ambition of attracting 26 million tourists a year by 2030.
Investment and infrastructure
The surge in visitor numbers follows years of sustained public and private investment aimed at modernising the tourism sector. Authorities have focused on upgrading airports, expanding transport networks and improving hospitality services across major cities and resort areas.
Morocco has also stepped up international promotion, positioning itself as a year-round destination offering cultural tourism, beaches, desert experiences and major events.
Analysts say improved air connectivity, including new routes linking Morocco to Europe, the Middle East and North America, has played a significant role in boosting arrivals.
The country has also benefited from relative political stability compared with parts of the wider region, making it an attractive destination for international travellers.
Economic importance
Tourism remains one of Morocco’s most important economic sectors. Official data show it contributes 7.4 percent of gross domestic product and supports around 880,000 jobs, equivalent to about 5 percent of total employment.
The government sees tourism as a key source of foreign currency and a driver of job creation, particularly for young people and in regions with limited industrial activity.
While the latest figures point to strong momentum, some industry observers warn that sustaining growth will require continued investment, skills development and careful management of environmental pressures, especially in popular destinations.
Still, officials remain optimistic. With visitor numbers already exceeding pre-pandemic levels, Morocco appears firmly on track to meet its 2030 tourism targets, reinforcing the sector’s role as a pillar of the national economy.
