Tourism in Morocco Reaches New Heights in 2025, Surpassing Egypt and Tunisia, Boosting North Africa’s Growth – What You Need to Know About North Africa’s New Leading Destination

Published on December 12, 2025

The tourism landscape in North Africa is experiencing a dramatic shift, as Morocco pulls ahead of both Egypt and Tunisia, securing its position as the continent’s top tourist destination in 2025. Recent statistics reveal that Morocco’s tourism sector is flourishing, surpassing expectations and establishing itself as a leading global player.

With the arrival of 18 million visitors by the end of October 2025, Morocco’s growth trajectory shows no signs of slowing. In contrast, Egypt and Tunisia are facing challenges despite strong year-on-year growth. This article delves into the rising success of Morocco’s tourism industry and its effects on the region, highlighting key factors that make it the number one choice for travelers.

Morocco Leads in Visitor Numbers: Breaking Records

In an impressive surge, Morocco welcomed 16.6 million tourists between January and October 2025, marking a 14% increase over the same period last year. With the country’s tourism momentum showing no signs of slowing, Morocco is poised to surpass 19 million arrivals and may even approach the coveted 20 million milestone by the end of the year.

The country’s tourism revenue is also on the rise, with MAD 113.26 billion ($12.23 billion) in receipts by October 2025, up 16.7% from the previous year. These figures are a testament to Morocco’s growing popularity among international travelers, particularly those from France, Spain, and the United Kingdom, who remain major contributors to the country’s visitor numbers. Additionally, Morocco continues to attract a significant portion of visitors from the Moroccan diaspora, further bolstering its position as a top destination in Africa.

Strong Winter Prospects: Africa Cup of Nations Boosts Tourism

Looking ahead, Morocco’s winter season is expected to further solidify its dominance. The upcoming Africa Cup of Nations, set to run from December 21, 2025, to January 18, 2026, is expected to draw thousands of sports fans from across Africa and the European diaspora. This major event adds an additional layer of demand for both leisure and sporting tourism, guaranteeing a spike in hotel occupancy and flight bookings.

Egypt’s Struggles Despite Growth

While Egypt also saw significant growth, with 15.6 million visitors by October 2025 (a 21% increase), it faces certain challenges that have impacted its position in the tourism race. Regional instability, particularly the war in Gaza, has raised concerns among potential visitors about safety, affecting Egypt’s tourism image. Additionally, the Russia-Ukraine conflict has led to a drop in Russian tourists, once a major source of visitors to Egypt’s Red Sea resorts.

Despite these setbacks, Egypt’s government remains hopeful, betting on new projects such as the Grand Egyptian Museum, which opened in November 2025. Expected to house over 100,000 artefacts, including the complete Tutankhamun collection, this museum is poised to boost the country’s cultural tourism offerings and attract more international visitors.

Tunisia Relies on Regional Visitors

Tunisia, which received 9.5 million tourists by the end of October 2025 (a 9.6% increase from 2024), remains largely dependent on its regional markets. The majority of visitors come from Algeria and Libya, with 53% of total visitors from neighboring countries. While these regional travelers provide a steady stream of tourism, Tunisia’s reliance on these markets makes its tourism sector vulnerable to political and economic shifts in the region.

European tourists are gradually returning, with France being the largest European source market. However, this recovery has been more gradual, reflecting a cautious but steady rebound. Tunisia is also seeing an uptick in cruise tourism, with increasing numbers of ships docking at its Mediterranean ports.

What’s Next for North African Tourism?

The North African tourism landscape in 2025 is marked by a reshaping of regional dynamics. Morocco has firmly taken the lead, setting an example of successful tourism recovery, while Egypt and Tunisia continue their respective efforts to bolster growth in the face of regional instability and global economic challenges.

For travelers, Morocco presents a wide array of cultural, historical, and natural attractions, from the bustling streets of Marrakech to the tranquil beauty of the Atlas Mountains and Sahara Desert. Egypt, with its ancient wonders and Red Sea resorts, remains an iconic destination for those seeking history and relaxation. Tunisia, though facing challenges, continues to be a preferred choice for those looking to explore its Mediterranean coastline and rich historical heritage.

Travel Tips for Morocco and Beyond

For those planning to visit Morocco, the country offers an abundance of experiences, from exploring its UNESCO World Heritage sites like Fez and Marrakech to immersing oneself in its vibrant markets and gardens. Here are some key tips for travelers:

• Plan for High Season: Morocco’s winter season, especially during the Africa Cup of Nations, will see high demand. Book flights and accommodation in advance.
• Cultural Etiquette: Morocco is a culturally rich and diverse country. Respect local customs, particularly during religious holidays such as Eid.
• Explore Beyond Major Cities: For a more authentic experience, venture into the Atlas Mountains or the Sahara Desert, where you can stay in traditional Berber camps.

What This Means for the Future of North African Tourism

As Morocco leads the way, its example may inspire neighboring countries to rethink their tourism strategies. With sustainable development, cultural tourism, and events like the Africa Cup of Nations, Morocco is setting a high bar for the region. While Egypt and Tunisia face challenges, they continue to adapt and develop their tourism infrastructure, focusing on new projects and strengthening their historical and cultural offerings.

North Africa’s tourism industry is far from stagnant—it’s evolving, reshaping, and pushing boundaries. Morocco’s success story is one that both visitors and local stakeholders should watch closely as it continues to captivate travelers from around the world.