Morocco Opens Doors to Tourism with Visa-Free Entry for 70 Nations

This is very exciting news for global travelers: Morocco has announced the adoption of a new visa-free policy for 70 countries, including Schengen countries, Qatar, the US, and the UK. This will indeed open up a new frontier in the tourism industry, making it much easier for visitors from these regions to explore the wonders of Morocco.

Morocco's Booming Travel & Tourism Market

This policy will most likely have a great impact on Morocco's tourism sector. The nation also foresees easier access, a rise in tourist arrivals, and increased economic growth in turn. These massive flows of tourists would bring more jobs in the hospitality, transport, and local business sectors, resulting in better economic development. Besides, this growth will support community development projects and infrastructure improvements, which can further enhance the overall travel experience.

It is anticipated that the travel and tourism market of Morocco will reach US$2,260 million in 2024, growing at an annual growth rate of 4.01% to US$2,645 million in 2028. The largest segment is Package Holidays, which is likely to generate a revenue of about US$1,014 million in 2024, while the number of users will grow to 6.084 million by 2028, thereby increasing user penetration from 23.0% to 24.9%.

Tourist arrivals surged 12.8% in the first quarter of 2024 from the corresponding period a year earlier, following a record 14.5 million tourists in 2023, up 34% from 2022. Morocco launched on March 17, 2023, a 580 million USD plan for the impetus of the tourism sector, which aims to attract 17.5 million tourists by 2026.

Airport Expansion

Royal Air Maroc operates flights to 82 destinations in 41 territories: Europe, North America, South America, Africa, the Maghreb, and the Middle East, from its hub at Mohammed V airport in Casablanca. RAM plans to increase its fleet to nearly 200 aircraft by 2030. The airline has released a slew of new routes that include a Casablanca–Abuja, Nigeria non-stop and a three-times weekly Casablanca–Manchester service, effective 23 June. all of which underpins RAM's expansion plans as Morocco continues its tourism boom, hosting 14.5 million visitors annually, with forecasts reaching 17.5 million by 2026. Mixing with Marrakech Menara Airport, the second busiest and one of the most beautiful in Africa, it connects to over 60 destinations internationally and is conveniently located 6 km from Marrakech city center, serving as a main hub for European visitors and 30 airlines. Among the popular routes from Marrakech are London, Manchester, Paris, Bordeaux, Milan, Malaga, and Barcelona.

A Warm Welcome to the World

According to this new policy, visitors from certain countries can be allowed into Morocco without a visa or can stay in the country for a period not exceeding 90 days. It is part of the country's more comprehensive policies towards greater connectivity with the rest of the world and attracting more foreign tourists. With eased requirements for entry, Morocco could very well turn into one of the most toured places in the world, as there would be no hassles at all in welcoming the arriving tourists warmly.

The countries with visa-free entry to Morocco include Algeria, Andorra, Argentina, Australia, Austria, Bahrain, Belgium, Brazil, Bulgaria, Burkina Faso, Canada, Chile, China, Colombia, Côte d’Ivoire, Croatia, Cyprus, Czech Republic, Denmark, Dominican Republic, Estonia, Finland, France, Gabon, Germany, Greece, Hungary, Iceland, Indonesia, Ireland, Italy, Japan, Kuwait, Latvia, Liechtenstein, Lithuania, Luxembourg, Malaysia, Maldives, Malta, Mexico, Monaco, Netherlands, New Zealand, Niger, Norway, Oman, Peru, Philippines, Poland, Portugal, Qatar, Romania, Russia, San Marino, Saudi Arabia, Senegal, Singapore, Slovakia, Slovenia, South Korea, Spain, Sweden, Switzerland, Togo, Tunisia, Turkey, United Arab Emirates, United Kingdom, and the United States.

Treasures of Morocco

Morocco's diverse offerings cater to all travelers. From bustling markets and historic cities to stunning landscapes and tranquil beaches, there's something for everyone. Immerse yourself in rich culture, vibrant arts, and delicious cuisine. Don't miss iconic sights like Marrakech's Medina, Fez's medinas, the Atlas Mountains, and Essaouira's beaches.

1. Marrakech: The city is renowned for its colorful, lively souks, historical palaces, and lively squares. The most famous sites are the Bahia Palace with its beautiful architecture and lush gardens and Jemaa el-Fnaa, a lively square filled with food stalls, musicians, and other performers. The most common places to visit include:
   • Bahia Palace: The 19th-century palace epitomizes the completeness of Moroccan architecture and is well decorated with intricate tile works, carved wood ceilings, and serene courtyards.
   • Jemaa el-Fnaa: This is the heart of Marrakech, which becomes loads of fun at night with vendors, snake charmers, and street food vendors offering great traditional Moroccan snack food.

High angle view Djemaa El Fna Marrakech, Morocco by Night

1. Fez: Fez is home to one of the oldest universities in the world—the University of Al Quaraouiyine—and its medieval Medina, classified by UNESCO as a World Heritage site. It has labyrinthine streets, traditional souks, and historic buildings.
   • University of Al Quaraouiyine: Founded in 859 AD, this is considered the oldest continuously operating educational institution in the world.
   • Medina of Fez: This ancient walled city is jammed with narrow alleys, bustling markets, mosques, madrasas—all giving a feel for times past.

Gate to ancient medina of Fez, Morocco 

1. Chefchaouen: Chefchaouen is a city famous for its blue-washed buildings and beautiful streets. The small mountain town prevails a serene atmosphere, with a visual appeal quite unique in itself
   • Blue Buildings: Individual buildings of the town are painted in different hues of blue to express serenity and create a stunning view. 
   • Picturesque Streets: meandering through narrow alleys and curvy streets offered plenty of picture clicks and calm. 

Alleyway in Chefchaouen, Morocco

1. Sahara Desert: Adventurous trip on giant sand dunes of Sahara Desert with camel trekking and desert camping. Erg Chebbi and Erg Chigaga are the most famous regions with sand dunes.
   • Erg Chebbi and Erg Chigaga: Giant dunes that offer breathtaking landscapes for exploration and capturing images.
   • Camel treks: Traditional camel rides across the deserts bring one closer to the vastness of the Sahara and its beauty.
   • Overnight desert camping in a classic Berber camp, surrounded by stars, with local music and traditional food.

1. Atlas Mountains: Full-day hiking in the surroundings, with visits to Berber villages and landscapes that provide fantastic views. Mount Toubkal, the highest peak in North Africa, attracts trekkers from everywhere.
   • Hiking: Numerous paths of different grades of walks are offered with breathtaking views on surroundings and an opportunity to get familiar with the beauty of nature.
   • Villages of the Berbers: These traditional villages give an insight into the culture and life of the locals.
   • Mount Toubkal: The highest peak in North Africa, 4,167 meters high, demanding and beautiful to climb.

Atlas Mountain

1. Essaouira: Essaouira is a coastal town known for its pristine beaches, beautiful medieval quarter, and vibrant cultural scene. The town, covered by historic ramparts, offers a mix between cultural and recreational activities.
   • Beaches: With the sandy shores and windy conditions, it is very famous to many water sports, like kitesurfing and windsurfing.
   • Medina: A UNESCO World Heritage site with narrow streets, whitewashed houses, and colorful doors; this historical area stretches.
   • Arts Scene: Essaouira is a town that boasts an incredibly vibrant artistic community, together with numerous galleries, music festivals, and cultural events.

Revitalizing Bonds at the Diplomatic Level

This policy also mirrors Morocco's commitment to deepening diplomatic relations with countries included in this visa-free regime. Through easier travels, Morocco establishes closer connections and promotes cultural exchanges. It could enhance mutual understanding and cooperation and more strongly entrench the position of Morocco in the world. A visa-free policy not only expands tourism but also reinforces the role of Morocco as a bridge between various cultures and states to achieve peace and cooperation.