Minister of Tourism Highlights Importance of Domestic Tourism for Economic Development in Morocco
In the plenary session of the House of Representatives on December 2, 2024. Minister of Tourism highlighted that the domestic tourist industry has grown to become an essential element to achieve social, economic and regional growth. She said that this sector is a major factor in the creation of jobs and also increasing the growth of related industries. She noted that the domestic tourist industry has contributed approximately 30 million overnight stay, comprising both classified and unclassified lodging.
The Minister emphasized the fact that Moroccan tourist are the main clients for the national destinations, highlighting the significance of this industry in sustaining the nation’s economy. But, she also stressed that the tourism industry in the country is facing the issue of seasonality, as demand is soaring in the summer months that put stress on the tourist resources.
The minister also said that the Ministry has created a brand new plan to diversify tourism offerings to meet the demands of Moroccan travelers throughout the year, instead of exclusively during summer holidays. The roadmap is based on five major areas which include enhancing accommodations by the promotion of investment in popular tourism services, arranging local services for accommodation to cut cost, and speeding up the application of the lawful framework adapting new accommodation options by implementing Law No. 80.14.
The Minister also explained that enhancing the appeal of tourism products is an important goal for the ministry, and efforts are concentrated on improving older cities, establishing new tourism routes and encouraging natural and cultural spaces. In addition, the connectivity of domestic flights is improved thanks to the introduction of new flights that bring different regions together and decrease isolated areas.
She stressed that it is important to leverage the power of pioneering initiatives to help aid domestic tourism for example, for instance the “DinoPark” project in Azilal, the establishment of parks with natural habitats in Ifrane, Toubkal, and Souss-Massa. She also emphasized the need for green zones within Khenifra and Loukidane and Loukidane, in addition to entertainment initiatives that are located in Casablanca as well as Marrakech.
As for promotion in terms of promotion, the Ministry together in collaboration with Moroccan National Tourism Office, created a campaign across the country under the tagline “Let’s Meet in Our Country,” that focuses on enhancing the efficiency of internal transportation as well as promotion of local attractions. Ministers also stressed the significance of educating people, and he cited the introduction of 1,299 brand-new tour guides in the organized sector by 2023.
The Minister concluded his remarks by focusing on efforts made are an integral part of the overall plan for strengthening tourism in the country as an essential pillar of sustainable development. This is contributing to the creation of Morocco an inclusive and varied tourism destination.