Rabat – Morocco has been recognized as one of Africa’s leading business tourism destinations, ranking fifth on the continent according to the latest report by the International Congress and Convention Association (ICCA).
Released on May 15, ahead of the IMEX Frankfurt trade show, the ICCA’s “Country and City Rankings for 2023” report highlighted Morocco’s impressive performance in the business tourism sector.
The North African nation hosted 26 international events in the past year, positioning it among the top five on the continent. Morocco trails behind South Africa, Rwanda, Kenya, and Egypt, which hosted 98, 32, 29, and 28 international events respectively. On a global scale, Morocco is ranked 62nd.
Marrakech, Morocco’s famed “red city,” played a pivotal role in achieving this ranking. Notably, the city hosted the prestigious World Bank and International Monetary Fund Annual Meetings in October 2023, attracting approximately 14,000 participants.
This significant event contributed to Marrakech securing the sixth spot among Africa’s best convention cities, tied with Accra in Ghana, with both cities hosting 16 international events. Globally, Marrakech is ranked 143rd.
The ICCA report underscores Africa’s growing stature in the business tourism arena, noting that the continent organized 3,535 international meetings in the past year.
Morocco, along with South Africa and Rwanda, was specifically commended for making substantial strides in developing their business tourism sectors.
Globally, the United States retained its leading position, hosting 690 international events in 2023. Europe also performed well with Italy, Spain, France, and Germany rounding out the top five with 553, 505, 472, and 463 events respectively.
Paris emerged as the top convention city worldwide, with 156 international events, followed closely by Singapore (152), Lisbon (151), Vienna (141), and Barcelona (139).
