
Evolution of the main tourist access points to Morocco from January to August 2024
Certainly, the tourism sector in Morocco showed clear dynamics during the period from January to August 2024, marked, according to the Tourism Observatory, by an overall increase of 16% in the number of tourists compared to the same period in 2023. This growth confirms the central role of Morocco as a major tourist destination, taking advantage of its diversified offer and its modern infrastructure, notably airports in the making. Report… 1-Marrakech Menara Airport: 2,758,031 tourists (+28%); Marrakech Menara Airport confirms its status as the main point of entry into Morocco with an impressive increase of 28% in 2024. This strong growth can be attributed to several factors: – Growing popularity of Marrakech: Ocher city, Marrakech remains the country’s flagship destination with its historic palaces, its riads, and its international events, such as the Marrakech Film Festival. -Increase in direct flights: New airlines have opened, facilitating access from European and Middle Eastern destinations. -Effects of post-COVID recovery: In 2023, Marrakech had already regained a significant tourist flow, but the year 2024 marks a full recovery, with attendance rates reaching record levels. 2-Casablanca Mohammed V Airport: 1,669,040 tourists (+6%): Casablanca Mohammed V Airport, second in terms of volume, recorded a more moderate increase of 6%: -International transit: Casablanca remains a central metropolis for long-haul flights, particularly those from Africa, America and the Middle East. -Rising business tourism: As the economic center of Morocco, Casablanca attracts a mixed clientele of tourists and business travelers. Which, however, still lacks the pleasure of congresses. -Short tours: Casablanca, although not a top tourist destination like Marrakech, attracts visitors interested in the Hassan II Mosque, beaches and short tours. 3-Bab Sebta Border Post: 1,226,960 tourists (+14%): The Bab Sebta border post, on the border of the Spanish enclave of Ceuta, experienced significant growth of 14% in 2024. This increase is explained by: -Influx of Spanish visitors: Tourist relations with Spain have intensified, taking advantage of the geographical proximity and advantageous rates for Spanish visitors. -Border tourism: Many cross-border tourists take advantage of shopping in Ceuta or combined Spain-Morocco stays.
