Morocco’s Tourism Revenue Reaches $1.96 Billion in May

Revenue from tourism in Morocco reached MAD 20.3 billion ($1.96 billion) at the end of May, new data from the Department of Studies and Financial Forecasts (DEPF) shows.

Rabat – Revenue from tourism in Morocco reached MAD 20.3 billion ($1.96 billion) at the end of May, new data from the Department of Studies and Financial Forecasts (DEPF) shows.

The new statistics reflect a sector-wide recovery as the total revenue reflects an increase of 173.1% compared to 2021. The same period last year marked a drop of 62.4% in tourism revenues.

DEPF said that revenues in the month of May 2022 amounted to MAD 5.7 million, representing a 1.9% increase compared to the pre-crisis level. The number suggests a recovery rate of 71.2% during the first five months of 2022.

The statistics highlight that tourism-related revenue between March and the end of May represented 94.2% compared to the same period of 2019.

The DEPF attributed the development to measures taken as part of the country’s efforts to revive the sector.

Tourism, one of the largest contributors to the country’s economy, was among the sectors that have been affected by COVID-19 restrictions throughout the pandemic.

Minister of Tourism Fatim-Zahra said on Tuesday that 3.4 million tourists have traveled to Morocco in the first six months of 2022.

The minister said the number has quadrupled compared to the same period in 2021. The arrivals are still below pre-pandemic levels however, as they represent 63% of the number of arrivals in 2019.

Ammor announced that the Ministry of Tourism is set to expand its efforts in addition to the $194.9 million Morocco announced earlier this year to tackle the sector crisis.

Morocco’s tourism ministry will also boost airline connections between Moroccan cities and abroad and will increase collaboration with international tour operators to promote the North African country as a tourism destination.

The Moroccan government also seeks to improve domestic tourism, stating that 51% of Moroccans prefer seaside tourism.

Currently, 87% of Moroccans take into consideration the prices of different tourist offers to choose their holiday destination, the ministry said, citing a recent survey.