Highlighting new developments and strategic connections, Casablanca is positioning itself as a top destination combining business, leisure and medical tourism.
At the Arabian Travel Market 2024 in Dubai, Othman Cherif Alami, Chairman of the Casablanca Region Tourism Council, shared some interesting insights into Casablanca’s evolving tourism industry. As a key economic hub in Morocco, Casablanca is poised to play a key role in the global tourism market.
Casablanca Regional Tourism Council
Alami emphasized the council’s role in promoting and marketing the region’s tourism potential. The association, made up of elected officials and industry experts, is conducting marketing studies to position Casablanca as a top tourist destination. The council’s efforts are geared towards developing both the economy and tourism, leveraging Casablanca’s position as Morocco’s economic leader.
Tourism success post-COVID
Morocco’s tourism industry has shown a remarkable recovery post-COVID, welcoming more than 13 million tourists. Along with Marrakech and Agadir, Casablanca has benefited from improved connectivity with low-cost airlines, making it easier to reach from Europe, America and Africa. Alami highlighted the importance of the UAE market and development opportunities for Casablanca.
Infrastructure Development
Significant infrastructure projects are underway to enhance Casablanca’s appeal. The city plans to open a unique event space in a renovated Congress Palace with seating for over 2,000 people and a converted church with a capacity of 1,500 people. Another highlight is the construction of a new stadium with a capacity of 115,000 spectators for the World Cup, which will be jointly hosted by Spain and Portugal.
MICE and Leisure Tourism
More than just a business hub, Casablanca is also targeting the MICE (meetings, incentive travel, conferences and exhibitions) sector. Currently, 80% of tourists come for business purposes, and the city is developing new venues to attract this market. Additionally, Casablanca’s rich history, cultural attractions, and the new seven-star Royal Monsoon Hotel are positioning Casablanca as an attractive destination for leisure travelers. A joint campaign with the Moroccan Tourism Board aims to promote Casablanca as a weekend city break destination.
Target Market and Connectivity
Europe remains a major market, with strong links to countries such as Spain, France, Belgium, the UK, Germany, Italy and Portugal. Casablanca operates more than 150 daily flights, including long-haul routes. The city is also expanding its reach to North America, the Middle East and Africa. The Asian market, especially via hubs such as Abu Dhabi, Doha and Dubai, is a future target, with direct flights to Shanghai, Beijing and India planned.
Future ambitions
Looking to the future, Casablanca aims to triple its annual visitor numbers to six million by 2030. This ambitious plan aims not only to increase tourism revenue, but also to create jobs and promote sustainable and responsible tourism. Alami highlights the tourism industry’s role in providing employment opportunities for young people, in line with global trends towards sustainable and inclusive tourism development.
In conclusion, Casablanca will emerge as a top destination combining business, leisure and medical tourism. With strategic development and focus on connectivity, Casablanca is poised to experience significant growth in the coming years.
Theodore is co-founder and Editor-in-Chief of the TravelDailyNews Media Network and is responsible for business development and planning long-term opportunities for TravelDailyNews.
