Rabat – Demand among Russian tourists for trips to Morocco rose nearly fourfold between January and September 2026 compared with the same period last year, according to the Association of Tour Operators of Russia (ATOR).
The association cited figures from Russian travel service Sletat.ru, which showed a sharp increase in interest in Morocco alongside growing demand for other African destinations.
Demand for trips to Tanzania increased 2.6 times during the first nine months of 2026, while interest in Egypt rose by 34%, according to ATOR. Kenya and Zanzibar also ranked among the African destinations attracting Russian travelers.
The association attributed the growing interest in African destinations to more accessible flights, a wider choice of holiday options, and competitive prices.
Morocco offers a mix of cultural tourism, historic cities, coastal resorts, and nature-based activities. Destinations such as Marrakech, Casablanca, Agadir, and Fez appeal to travelers seeking different experiences, from beach holidays to visits to historic sites and traditional markets.
Direct flights support growth
Improved air connections between Russia and Morocco may also be contributing to the increase in demand.
Russian news agency Interfax reported that demand for trips to Morocco had increased between two and four times since the beginning of 2026, following the resumption of direct flights by Royal Air Maroc between the two countries.
The airline also announced plans to increase the frequency of its flights between Casablanca and Moscow from October 26, while adding more weekly flights between Casablanca and St. Petersburg, according to the report.
Direct connections can make Morocco more accessible to Russian travelers by reducing the need for connecting flights through other countries.
Morocco’s tourism sector continues to grow
The rise in Russian demand comes as Morocco continues to record strong tourism growth.
The country welcomed 19.8 million tourist arrivals in 2025, a 14% increase compared with 2024, according to the Ministry of Tourism. The result marked a record for the country and brought it closer to its goal of attracting 26 million tourists by 2030.
Morocco has been working to expand air connectivity, improve accommodation capacity, diversify its tourism offer, and attract investment across its regions.
The growing interest from Russia could offer another opportunity to diversify Morocco’s source markets and attract visitors beyond its traditional European markets.
