Morocco's Tourism Ranking Drops Despite Sector Growth

Morocco's tourism industry faces growing challenges as the country’s position in the World Economic Forum’s Travel & Tourism Development Index drops 12 spots to 82nd out of 119 nations. The decline highlights the persistent issues within the sector, particularly in infrastructure and sustainability, which hinder the full potential of Morocco’s hospitality and tourism industries.

With a score of 3.64, Morocco lags behind the global average, despite tourism being a major contributor to the economy. The country continues to rely on tourism for job creation, foreign exchange, and cultural influence. Rich in historical landmarks, vibrant festivals, and offering competitive pricing, Morocco remains a popular cultural destination. However, significant barriers, including underdeveloped infrastructure, especially in transportation and tourism services, hinder growth.

Environmental sustainability is another growing concern. As global awareness of climate change rises, more travelers seek destinations that offer sustainable tourism experiences. The low ranking on the index reflects these concerns, emphasizing the need for improved sustainability practices.

Nevertheless, Morocco’s tourism sector has shown resilience. By the end of September 2024, the country welcomed 13.1 million visitors, a notable increase of two million from the same period in 2023. This surge has translated into a boost in revenues, with the sector generating MAD 87.1 billion ($8.65 billion), up from MAD 80.4 billion ($7.99 billion) in 2023. These figures suggest a strong demand, especially in cultural and adventure tourism.

Morocco is not alone in facing these challenges. Neighboring Tunisia and Algeria also struggle with infrastructure and environmental issues, reflected in their respective low rankings—Tunisia in 83rd place and Algeria in 98th. In contrast, countries like the UAE have outperformed Morocco, ranking 18th globally, thanks to superior infrastructure and investments in sustainable tourism initiatives. Saudi Arabia has made impressive strides, improving its position by nine places to 41st.

Top tourism destinations such as the US, Spain, Japan, and France maintain their lead, driven by advanced infrastructure, diversified tourism offerings, and a strong focus on sustainability. These countries have invested heavily in technology and connectivity, ensuring accessibility to global travelers.

Despite Morocco’s lower ranking, its tourism industry shows promise. The growth in visitors and revenue highlights the sector's potential. For Morocco to improve its position and unlock the full potential of its tourism industry, a concerted effort is needed to address infrastructure deficiencies, enhance sustainability practices, and diversify tourism experiences.