Home Outbound International Morocco surpasses Egypt as Africa’s top tourist destination with 17.4 million visitors...

Morocco surpasses Egypt as Africa’s top tourist destination with 17.4 million visitors in 2024

Essaouira, Morocco
Essaouira, Morocco

Morocco achieved a historic milestone in 2024, welcoming 17.4 million inbound visitors, according to the Ministry of Tourism, Handicrafts, and Social and Solidarity Economy. This record-breaking figure marks a 20 per cent increase from 2023, with nearly 3 million additional tourists visiting the country.

“Morocco as a destination made a strong impact in 2024. With 17.4 million tourists by the end of December, Morocco is ahead of schedule in meeting the ambitious target set out in its roadmap, initially scheduled for 2026,” the Ministry announced.

The surge in arrivals reflects growth in both foreign tourists, who accounted for 8.8 million visitors (+23 per cent), and Moroccan expatriates, who contributed 8.6 million arrivals (+17 per cent). This near balance—51 per cent foreign tourists and 49 per cent expatriates—highlights Morocco’s appeal across diverse traveler demographics.

Fatim-Zahra Ammor, Minister of Tourism, Handicrafts, and the Social and Solidarity Economy, Morocco, attributed this achievement to visionary leadership and strategic investments. “This record of 17.4 million testifies to the sizable progress made by our country under the enlightened vision of His Majesty King Mohammed VI,” Ammor stated.

She commended the collaborative efforts of the public and private sectors, adding, “This exceptional performance is the result of targeted investment by our government in this vital sector and the constant mobilisation of tourism professionals. Congratulations to all public and private players who bolstered Moroccan tourism.”

Surpassing Egypt, Morocco has claimed the title of Africa’s most-visited destination, just a year after a devastating earthquake near Marrakesh, one of its top tourist spots. Egypt also experienced growth, welcoming 15.7 million visitors in 2024, but it fell short of Morocco’s record-breaking numbers.