MENA Newswire, RABAT: Morocco recorded a historic performance in its tourism sector in 2025, welcoming 19.8 million visitors, the highest annual total ever registered by the country, according to official data released on Tuesday by the Moroccan Ministry of Tourism. The record-breaking figure marks a significant increase in arrivals compared with previous years and confirms tourism as a major contributor to national economic activity during the reporting period.
Total tourism revenues exceeded $13 billion in 2025, reflecting the strong correlation between rising visitor numbers and overall sector earnings. The revenue growth was supported by sustained demand across accommodation, transport, food services, and cultural and recreational activities. Officials indicated that spending levels remained consistent with historical patterns, with no major distortions reported across core tourism segments during the year.
The near-20-million visitor milestone positions Morocco among the most visited destinations in Africa. Government data showed that international arrivals continued to recover and expand across a wide range of source markets, reinforcing the country’s long-standing role as a regional tourism hub. Authorities noted that the sector maintained operational stability throughout the year despite broader global economic pressures affecting travel in some regions.
European countries remained the largest source of inbound visitors, accounting for a substantial share of total arrivals. The ministry also reported steady growth in visitors from North America and the Middle East, contributing to a more diversified tourism base. Improved air connectivity and sustained demand for cultural and leisure travel supported traffic flows across multiple entry points, including major airports and land crossings.
Domestic tourism continued to play an important role in overall sector performance during 2025. Travel by Moroccan residents supported occupancy rates, particularly during off-peak periods, and contributed to tourism activity in inland and secondary destinations. Officials stated that domestic travel complemented international demand and helped stabilize revenues across different regions of the country.
International travel demand drives Morocco visitor growth
Tourism infrastructure expanded alongside rising visitor numbers, with additional hotel capacity and service upgrades reported in key cities and resort areas. Investments were recorded across a range of accommodation categories, from international hotel brands to locally operated establishments. The ministry indicated that sector growth was accompanied by ongoing workforce participation across hospitality, transport, handicrafts, and food supply chains, supporting employment in both urban and rural areas.
Major cities such as Rabat, Marrakech, and Fez continued to attract a significant share of visitors in 2025, driven by demand for cultural heritage, historical sites, and urban experiences. Coastal destinations and mountain regions also registered increased activity, reflecting sustained interest in leisure travel and nature-based tourism. Heritage sites and medinas remained central to visitor itineraries, supported by preservation and site management efforts already in place.
Official data closes 2025 tourism reporting cycle
The ministry described the 2025 results as a benchmark year for Moroccan tourism, reflecting consistent performance across arrivals and revenues. Official data showed that growth was broadly distributed across seasons, reducing reliance on peak travel periods. Authorities reiterated that tourism remains one of the country’s primary sources of foreign exchange and a key pillar of economic output.
The release of the 2025 figures concludes the annual reporting cycle for the tourism sector, providing a comprehensive overview of visitor flows and financial performance. The ministry stated that the data will inform ongoing monitoring of sector indicators, including arrivals, receipts, and employment, as part of routine national economic reporting.