The tourism sector continues its momentum, betting on human capital and enhancing air transport
The government remains committed to developing the tourism sector as a key driver of economic growth, with a focus on human capital development and strengthening air connectivity, as part of the implementation of the tourism roadmap for 2026.
Fatima Zahra Ammour, Minister of Tourism, Handicrafts, and Social and Solidarity Economy, emphasized during a question-and-answer session in the House of Representatives that this year presents an opportunity to reinforce the positive dynamics within the sector. This will be achieved through the establishment of 26 new sectors to diversify the tourism offer, alongside the activation of the “Kafa’a” program for certifying professional expertise for 5,000 professionals, while also supporting the development of tourism and hospitality training in collaboration with the National Office for Vocational Training and Employment Promotion.
The minister highlighted that the tourism roadmap has proven effective, particularly in areas of promotion, marketing, and air transport, through continued promotional campaigns and showcasing the diverse tourism offerings the Kingdom boasts, thereby enhancing the attractiveness of the Moroccan destination in international markets.
In this context, Ammour noted that 2025 saw contracts signed with tour operators to attract 1.5 million travelers, a 12% increase compared to 2024, as well as partnerships with digital travel agencies to secure around 9 million overnight stays, achieving a growth rate of 16%.
The government official revealed plans to open 80 new air routes from tourist source markets, providing over 12 million air seats in 2025, marking a 12% increase from the previous year. It is anticipated that 14.5 million seats will be secured in 2026, with a projected growth of nearly 20%.
Regarding investment, the minister confirmed enhancements in investments in tourist accommodation and entertainment, with the addition of 43,000 new beds as part of the roadmap, surpassing set targets. Additionally, a program for renewing tourist accommodation facilities was launched, featuring the approval of 91 projects, with encouragement for investment across various regions of the Kingdom to diversify the tourism offer.
In the entertainment sector, the “Go Tourism” program has been launched to support the establishment and development of 1,700 tourism enterprises, with around 1,400 projects accepted so far, and an expectation to approve 300 additional projects in 2026, contributing to expanding the base of tourism investment and diversifying recreational products.
The ministry has also launched a project bank, a digital platform that includes over 900 model projects across various regions of the Kingdom, with ongoing support for project holders through the project bank and the “Go Tourism” program, alongside incubator programs in areas of digital technology, e-gaming, and culinary arts.
Regarding rural tourism, Ammour indicated that it holds priority in the 2023–2026 tourism roadmap, with the allocation of three thematic chains focusing on nature and outdoor activities, desert and oases, and internal tourism related to nature. This will include integration into horizontal chains and flagship projects, such as natural parks in Toubkal and Ifrane.
The Minister of Tourism concluded by reaffirming partnerships with regions and local stakeholders through practical contracts and specific agreements to enhance rural tourism. She highlighted the launch of a program aimed at revitalizing 16 tourist villages with a budget of 188 million dirhams, supporting balanced tourism development across various regions of the Kingdom.
