Morocco’s Tourism Industry Achieves Unprecedented Post-Pandemic Surge with Domestic and International Travel Driving Record Economic Growth

Published on December 1, 2025

Morocco’s tourism sector has emerged stronger than ever, posting remarkable post-pandemic growth that highlights its vital role in the national economy. The latest Tourism Satellite Account released by the High Commission for Planning reveals that the sector’s gross domestic product (GDP) increased by an extraordinary 38.4 percent in 2024 compared to 2019, exceeding pre-pandemic performance and signaling a robust recovery.

The sector’s contribution to Morocco’s overall GDP grew from 6.8 percent in 2019 to 7.3 percent in 2024, reflecting tourism’s growing influence on the country’s economic framework. This resurgence is driven by a combination of rising domestic travel and a steady increase in international visitors, which together have fueled stronger consumption, higher production, and significant value creation within the sector.

Domestic Travel and International Visitors Drive Consumption Growth

Domestic tourism consumption in Morocco expanded impressively, reaching 201.7 billion dirhams in 2024 from 141.4 billion dirhams in 2019—a 42.6 percent increase. This growth illustrates the renewed interest of local travelers exploring Morocco’s diverse cultural, historical, and recreational offerings.

Receptive tourism, including foreign visitors and Moroccans living abroad, recorded a 46.8 percent increase, rising from 93.2 billion dirhams in 2019 to 136.9 billion dirhams in 2024. Domestic and outbound tourism, which covers Moroccans traveling within the country or abroad, grew by 34.6 percent, totaling 64.8 billion dirhams. The share of receptive tourism in total consumption also rose, accounting for 67.9 percent in 2024 compared with 65.9 percent in 2019, indicating the growing economic importance of international arrivals.

Tourism Production and Value Added Achieve Strong Gains

The tourism sector’s production expanded substantially, climbing 42.3 percent to reach 181.9 billion dirhams in 2024, compared with 127.8 billion dirhams in 2019. This increase reflects the sector’s broad economic impact, spanning accommodation, transportation, dining, entertainment, and cultural services.

The sector’s value added, which measures its net economic contribution, rose by 37 percent to 96.4 billion dirhams. Net taxes minus subsidies on tourism-related goods and services increased by 46 percent, contributing to a tourism GDP of 116.2 billion dirhams in 2024 versus 83.9 billion dirhams in 2019. Tourism production now represents 6.9 percent of total national production, while tourism value added accounts for 6.8 percent of Morocco’s economic value added, highlighting the sector’s growing significance in driving national economic growth.

Balanced Expansion Strengthens Resilience

The sector’s growth demonstrates a balanced expansion between domestic and international markets. International arrivals have risen steadily, while domestic travel continues to flourish, ensuring a diversified tourism base that enhances economic resilience. Visitors are increasingly seeking high-value experiences, including cultural tours, luxury accommodations, adventure activities, and culinary experiences, which has contributed to higher per-visitor spending.

Strategic investments in infrastructure, digitalization, and hospitality standards have played a crucial role in supporting this growth. Improved accessibility, upgraded services, and targeted promotional efforts have enabled Morocco to attract a wider spectrum of travelers while maximizing economic returns.

Future Outlook and Economic Significance

Looking ahead, Morocco’s tourism industry is positioned for continued expansion, driven by sustained investments in facilities, technology, and global marketing initiatives. With tourism now contributing over 7 percent of national GDP, the sector remains a vital engine of economic diversification, employment, and foreign exchange generation.

The impressive performance in 2024 demonstrates that Morocco’s tourism industry is not merely recovering but thriving, with significant potential to enhance its global profile further. By maintaining focus on both domestic and international markets, Morocco is set to consolidate its position as a leading travel destination in Africa and beyond. The sector’s resilience and sustained growth will continue to play a central role in supporting national prosperity in the coming years.