Rabat – The Moroccan National Tourism Office (ONMT) has showcased the country’s thriving tourism industry at the 44th edition of the International Tourism Fair (FITUR), taking place between January 24 and 28 in Madrid.

According to a statement by ONMT, the Moroccan cities of Tangier and Ouazazate were featured in a dedicated 130 square meters space at this year’s edition. The exhibit highlighted the unique strengths and development potential of these two cities, inviting visitors to explore the natural beauty and cultural experience they have to offer.

The ONMT has also introduced its new Morocco Pavilion concept, previously showcased in London. Occupying a “prime location with a contemporary and inspiring design,” the pavilion aims to spotlight the “authentic and globally welcoming essence of Morocco,” said the statement.

It added that the initiative aligns with the innovative deployment of ONMT’s “Morocco – Land of Light” brand, which aims to promote the country as an international travel destination.

General Director of ONMT Adel El Fakir led a delegation of public and private sector representatives at FITUR. It included approximately 150 tourism professionals from diverse regions, as well as the Moroccan flag carrier Royal Air Maroc (RAM).

The Moroccan tourism office noted that the Spanish market has emerged as a key driver of the country’s tourism success.

Read also: Morocco: First Non-European Destination for Spanish Tourists

Morocco welcomed a record-breaking 2.8 million Spanish tourists by the end of November 2023, representing a 38% increase compared to the previous year. 

Air capacities have also seen a substantial rise, with a 14% increase for the winter of 2023-24, and an anticipated 8% growth for the summer of 2024. 

New air services, including direct routes such as Saragossa-Fez, Saragossa-Ouarzazate, Murcia-Marrakech, and Tenerife-Marrakech, are expected to further boost connectivity.

ONMT noted that the strong presence of the Morocco brand at FITUR 2024 reflects the importance of the Iberian Peninsula, particularly the Spanish and Portuguese markets, which stand as the second-largest source of foreign tourists to Morocco after France. 

The 2024 edition of Fitur is therefore a crucial opportunity for ONMT to continue implementing its “light in action” action plan and enhance Morocco’s visibility and market share in strategic markets.

“The 2024 edition of Fitur is therefore a crucial opportunity for ONMT to continue implementing its ‘light in action’ action plan and enhance Morocco’s visibility and market share in strategic markets,” concluded the statement.