Doha – The Zambian government announced on December 18 the extension of its visa-free policy to 53 new countries, including Morocco, effective January 1, 2025. The measure aims to boost tourism and stimulate foreign investment in the country.

Speaking at a press briefing in Lusaka, Zambia’s Minister of Home Affairs and Internal Security, Jack Mwiimbu, announced that this development brings the total number of countries whose nationals are exempted from visa requirements to 167.

“This measure is in line with President Hakainde Hichilema’s call to promote Zambia as an attractive destination for tourism, business, trade and investment,” Mwiimbu stated during the press conference.

The decision comes as Zambia reports strong tourism growth, with tourist arrivals reaching 1.9 million by November 2024, according to Zambia Tourism Agency Chief Executive Officer Matongo Matamwandi. The country expects to surpass two million visitors by the end of 2024.

Mwiimbu expressed optimism about reaching three million international tourist arrivals by 2026, citing the record number of tourist arrivals in 2023, which exceeded 1.5 million.

This visa waiver policy follows Lusaka’s previous decision to lift visa requirements for European tourists in October 2022.

Zambia, home to the majestic Victoria Falls — one of the Seven Natural Wonders of the World — offers visitors diverse wildlife experiences across its 20 national parks, including South Luangwa, known for walking safaris.

The country also features the mighty Zambezi River, popular for white-water rafting, and pristine wilderness areas teeming with diverse African wildlife.

The announcement adds Zambia to a growing list of countries that have established visa-free agreements with Morocco in 2024.

Morocco’s global mobility

In September, Morocco and Kazakhstan signed a visa exemption agreement during the 79th United Nations General Assembly in New York, allowing citizens to travel without a visa for up to 30 days within a 180-day period.

In May, Morocco and Azerbaijan inked a similar agreement during the 15th Summit of the Organization of Islamic Cooperation in Banjul, Gambia, facilitating tourism between the two nations.

Additionally, Thailand announced the same month that Moroccan tourists would be granted visa-free entry for stays of up to 60 days, effective June 1, as part of Thailand’s expansion of visa-free entry to 93 countries.

These visa waivers strengthen Morocco’s global mobility status. According to the Henley Passport Index 2024, Morocco’s passport currently ranks 68th globally and first in the Maghreb region, granting its holders visa-free access to 72 destinations worldwide, an improvement from its previous 80th position with 65 destinations.