North African nation targets 60,000 new hotel beds and major infrastructure upgrades to boost tourism before co-hosting the 2030 FIFA World Cup.
Morocco is moving ahead with an ambitious plan to expand its hospitality sector as preparations intensify for the 2030 FIFA World Cup, which the country will co-host alongside Spain and Portugal.
The North African nation aims to add 60,000 hotel beds over the coming years to accommodate the expected influx of international visitors during the global football tournament.
The expansion is part of a broader strategy to strengthen Morocco’s tourism industry and position the country as a leading travel destination.
Minister of Tourism, Handicrafts and Social and Solidarity Economy Fatim-Zahra Ammor highlighted that Morocco has already added approximately 45,000 hotel beds during the past four years, reflecting the sector’s rapid growth and increasing demand from travelers.
Morocco’s tourism industry has witnessed remarkable progress in recent years. The country welcomed a record 19.8 million tourists in 2025, representing a 14 percent increase compared to the previous year.
Strong growth in international arrivals has been supported by enhanced air connectivity and expanded travel options, making Morocco more accessible to visitors from around the world.
Building on this momentum, Moroccan authorities have set an ambitious target of attracting 26 million tourists annually by 2030.
Tourism remains a vital pillar of the national economy, contributing nearly 7 percent to the country’s gross domestic product (GDP) while generating significant employment opportunities and foreign exchange earnings.
Officials view the 2030 FIFA World Cup as more than just a sporting spectacle. The tournament is being used as a platform to accelerate long-term tourism development, improve infrastructure, and increase Morocco’s global visibility. Authorities believe the event will create lasting economic benefits well beyond the competition itself.
To support these goals, Morocco is investing more than 190 billion Moroccan dirhams, equivalent to around $20 billion, in major infrastructure projects.
The investment includes upgrades to rail networks, highways, airports, stadiums, and other key facilities that will enhance transportation and visitor experiences across the country.
In addition, the government is seeking to diversify tourism by promoting destinations beyond popular cities such as Marrakech and Agadir.
Improved air links are expected to attract more travelers from China, the United States, and Middle Eastern countries, helping Morocco achieve sustained tourism growth ahead of the 2030 FIFA World Cup.