What role does tourism play in Morocco’s economy?

Tourism is a vital component of Morocco’s modern economy, serving as a significant sector that has been actively developed by the government since the mid-1980s. By the late 1990s, tourism and its associated services had become the country’s primary source of foreign currency.12

The government has fostered this industry through various measures, including direct capital investments, loans, and tax exemptions. Morocco’s appeal to millions of annual visitors—primarily from Europe, as well as from Algeria, the United States, and East Asia—is driven by its diverse environments, sandy beaches, and rich cultural heritage.21

Key destinations like Marrakech highlight the country's tourism potential, offering historical sites, such as the UNESCO World Heritage site medina, alongside opportunities for winter sports and mountain tourism in the High Atlas range. Overall, tourism is a key part of the modern economic sector, which accounts for more than two-thirds of Morocco’s gross domestic product.13