The 10 Largest Cities in Morocco

The 10 Largest Cities in Morocco

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Although Morocco's economic structure is still significantly rural, its population is concentrated mainly in large cities.

The Moroccan population is estimated at just under 40 million. The 10 cities with the largest populations are:

1-Cablanca 3,700,000

2-Fes 1,200,000

3-Tangier 1,000,000

4-Marrakech 950,000

5-Salé 920,000

6-Meknes 700,000

7-Rabat 600,000

8-Oujda 550,000

9-Kenitra 500,000

10-Agadir 480,000

Discover Morocco's new regions and capitals

Discover Morocco's new regions and capitals

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Morocco now only has 12 regions instead of 16

The kingdom of Morocco is divided into 12 regions, which in turn are subdivided into 75 prefectures and provinces. Each of these regions has historical and geographical features which make it interesting.

Fès-Meknès Region

Situated in northern Morocco. The population of the region is close to 4.5 million and has Fes as its capital city.

Tanger-Tetouan-Al Hoceima Region

Situated in north-western Morocco. The region of Tanger-Tetouan-Al Hoceima is home to more than 3 million people. The capital city of the region is the popular tourist destination of Tangier. 

Rabat-Salé-Kénitra Region

The region of Rabat-Salé-Kénitra has a population of more than 4 million. The city of Rabat is the capital of the region (as well as being the capital of Morocco).

Béni Mellal-Khénifra Region

The region of Béni Mellal-Khénifra is home to nearly 2.5 million people and has Beni Mellal as its capital city. 

Casablanca-Settat Region

The region of Casablanca-Settat, with a population close to 7 million, is the most densely populated region of Morocco. The vibrant city of Casablanca is the region’s capital.

Marrakech-Safi Region

Situated in central Morocco, the population of the region of Marrakech-Safi is around 4.5 million. The capital city of the region is the popular tourist destination of Marrakech.  

Drâa-Tafilalet Region

The region of Drâa-Tafilalet has a population of about 1.7 million. The region’s capital city is Errachidia.

Souss-Massa Region

The region of Souss-Massa is home to nearly 2.8 million people and has Agadir as its capital city.

Oriental Region

Situated in north eastern Morocco, with Algeria as a neighbor. The population of the region of Oriental is around 2.5 million. The capital city of the region is Oujda. 

Guelmim-Oued Noun Region

The region has a population of around 520,000.  The capital city of the region is Guelmim.

Laâyoune-Sakia El Hamra Region

The region of Laâyoune-Sakia El Hamra is one of the 12 regions of Morocco. Around 400,000 people live in the region which has Laâyoune as its capital city.

Dakhla-Oued Ed-Dahab Region

Situated in South-western Morocco, the region of Dakhla-Oued Ed-Dahab has a population of more than 180,000. The capital city of the region is the popular tourist destination of Dakhla.

Tourism Industry in Morocco

Tourism Industry in Morocco

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Morocco tourism: Our country has one of the most developed tourism markets in Africa. The ‘Land of contrasts‘, is known for its hospitality, historical places, eco-attractions and beautiful beaches, its world-famous cuisine, affordable accommodation and good infrastructure. In 2017 Morocco welcomed a record number of 11 million visitors and is expected to will remain a prime tourist location in the years to come.

The number of visitors in Morocco is expected to increase in the coming years to more than 20 million by 2020.

The red city ‘Marrakech’ is listed in the top 10 of the world’s most attractive cities to visit and saw an increase in the tourists from United States, Europe, China and the Middle East.

The tourism industry is one of Morocco’s main economic sectors, accounting for 11-12% of its GDP.

Hotel Industry in Morocco

Morocco has a well-developed hotel industry.

Key players in Morocco’s hotel industry include:

Morocco's Vision 2020 Strategy

In 2010 the Tourism Authority Morocco released its Market Plan 2020.

The vision 2020 aims to turn Morocco into a sustainable tourist destination where quality is preferred over quantity. The aim is to promote Morocco as a ‘Preferred Destination’ that will attract quality leisure tourists from around the world by incorporating Morocco culture into tourism promotion. Both on national and international level, Morocco is positioning itself as the tourism hub of Africa by promoting new markets as well as the niche markets, such as the wellness, medical and sports market.

Ambition

In 2020 the kingdom of Morocco will stand within the 25 largest global destinations and will emerge as a reference in the Mediterranean periphery on sustainable development. 

Religion in Morocco

Religion in Morocco

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The Moroccan Constitution guarantees religious freedom and there are a number of different religions in Morocco.

Islam in Morocco

98% of Morocco's people today are Muslim, and Morocco's history is principally that of an Islamic people, their empires, architecture, literature and arts.

Freedom Of Religion in Morocco

Islam places great importance on tolerance, pacifism and respect for people, creeds and cultures.

Non-Muslims have historically been able to freely practice their own religions openly in Morocco.

The Minority Religions in Morocco

Morocco has been home to all three great revealed religions—Christianity, Islam and Judaism—for centuries.

Today, approximately 350,000 Christians and 50,000 Jews live in Morocco, out of almost 38 million of the total population. 

Morocco Economy Fast Facts and Summary

Morocco Economy Fast Facts and Summary

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Morocco has been the fastest growing economy in North Africa over the last decade, posting positive rates for 20 years until last year, despite the global slowdown since 2008.

Morocco was thereby able to record an average annual growth rate of 4% in the period 2004-2015, almost double the regional average of 2%.

In order to maintain the region's leadership in economic growth, Morocco has been implementing measures to reduce bureaucratic barriers to investment, stimulating capital investment in infrastructures and encouraging the establishment of Small and medium-sized enterprises.

Morocco has an extensive network of trade agreements (which generate opportunities to develop our exports).

The country currently has trade agreements with the main economies of the world, such as China, the United States and the European Union. Morocco also belongs to trade blocks such as the Economic Community of West African States. 

The Main Economic Activities in Morocco

Morocco’s economy is one of the most stable in Africa. The main economic activities are tourism, logistics, finances, Agriculture, phosphate, construction, textiles and automobile manufacturing.

Laboure Force By Occupation

-Services: 42%

-Agriculture: 38%

-Industry: 20%

Morocco Trade, Exports and Imports

Morocco Exports : citrus fruits, motor vehicles, vegetables, fish, phosphates, clothing and textiles, petroleum products.

Morocco Imports : gas and electricity, transistors, Crude petroleum...

Morocco Main Export Partners : Spain 22%, France 20%, United States 6%, India  4.2%, Italy 4%

Morocco Main Import Partners : Spain 13%, France 12%, China 9%, United States 7%, Germany 6%, Italy 5.5%, Russia 4.5%, Turkey 4%.

About Morocco Agricultural Products

Morocco is one of the top agricultural producers in Africa.

Major export markets include Morocco's neighboring countries, as well as several Asian and European countries, and the United States.

Experience the Best of Moroccan Nightlife

Experience the Best of Moroccan Nightlife

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When The Sun Goes Down it’s Time to Party in Moroccan Style!

Our country is rightly famed for its nightlife, from the world-class theatres to the Bars and clubs.
Morocco’s nightlife scene caters for all tastes,be it comedy, music or theatre, there will always be somewhere to party the night away.
Although Morocco is known first and foremost for its historical and natural treasures, its lively nightlife is also a great source of enjoyment for tourists. Our country offers a big variety of entertainment spots appeal to all sorts of tastes and reflect the country’s diverse cultural makeup. These places offer an enjoyable night to listen to live music, partake of new drink and food and dance with your best friends.

Casablanca, Marrakech, Agadir and Tangier are now some of the most popular city destinations in the world. They are lined with both modern and old establishments. These consist of bars, traditional beer-houses, licensed restaurants, folk music bar, casinos, taverns and nightclubs providing hours of fun until the early hours. It is a great way to unwind in the evenings after enjoying sightseeing Morocco’s nature and history during the day.

Spend your day backpacking around famous sites, and when night falls travel to a club, pub, bar or whatever takes your fancy (Be ready to keep going into the small hours).

In Morocco, nightlife is an extremely different culture than during the day. The daytime is perfect for tourists who are interested in beautiful art, great food, and other types of innocent fun. This nightlife experience is perfect for anyone who is looking for a once in a lifetime night.

With its mixture of romance, exoticism, nightlife in our country is unique.
Enjoy everything Morocco has to offer.

Best Casablanca Nightlife

Casablanca is home to tons of nightclubs that are among the best in Morocco. VIP CLUB is one of Casablanca’s most hopping clubs, where theme parties are normal and live music is always on the menu.

Best Rabat Nightlife

The nightlife in Rabat is perfect for people who love great food and wine.

Best Tangier Nightlife

The nightlife offered in Tangier is among the most distinctive in all of Morocco. For a rare beach bar experience, Beach Club 555 has the best cocktails money can buy. Le Tangerine Bar may be a tourist attraction but it’s also often the last bar open for when you want to drink and dance until 5 AM.

Morocco has some of the best nightlife in the world, with clubs, bars, pubs, restaurants and more.

The 17 Best Beaches in Morocco 2018

The 17 Best Beaches in Morocco 2018

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Top 17 guide to the best beaches in Morocco you need to visit at least once in your lifetime
Enjoy Morocco
Enjoy the sea

The goal of many vacationers traveling to Morocco is to see the country's major sites in cities like Fes, Marrakech, Rabat and Ouarzazate.  But for scores of other travelers, Morocco's spectacular beaches are the primary vacation draw.
Morocco is a great place to visit to unwind in the warm sunshine. It has one of the longest coastlines in the world (almost 3500km), with countless beautiful beaches, charming bays. The sea has made Morocco a really nice and relaxing place where there's room for everyone; a place with a high level of services and a wide range of activities, infrastructures and resources to suit people of all backgrounds and ages.

The Moroccan Beaches are exceedingly popular and world-famous because they are known for their unique diversity, clear waters and crystal clean. The tourist has the opportunity to enjoy beaches with a variety of services to offer (you can enjoy windsurfing, diving, water sports- water skiing, as well as other means of having fun in the water).

Every year tens of beaches and marinas in Morocco are awarded with the Blue Flag (the criteria a beach must meet in order to receive a Blue Flag are very strict, both from the aspect of services provided as well as from the environmental viewpoint). In Morocco about 25 beaches and 8 marinas have been awarded the Blue Flag; this number rises each year, a true indication of the Moroccans’ love and regard for the sea.

Whether you’re a sun seeker or surfer, there is a place for you.

The Atlantic coast has everything you’d expect- crystal clear waters, white sands and lovely warm weather.

Along Morocco’s Mediterranean coast lie a string of seaside cities and towns, Breathtaking Places to stay when you want to enjoy a beach holiday.

There are hundreds of incredible beaches in Morocco (choosing where to go can often be a troublesome decision).

Check out our picks for Morocco's best beaches:

Legzira Beach

A lovely (somewhat isolated beach) with golden sand, about two hours to the South of the mass tourism beach destination of Agadir. This stunning beach is best known for its sandstone cliffs and spectacular natural arches.

If you would like to find a less busy beach in Morocco, aim for Legzira. There are some amazing caves to explore, too.

If you want exotic, then you should head to the Legzira Beach.

Agadir Beach

A wide, sandy beach with safe swimming, Located on the Atlantic coast in southwest Morocco.

Sleepy out of season, the charming city of Agadir comes to life in the summer when it draws a stream of holidaymakers (lured by its magnificent beach).

Agadir is bathed in sunshine all year, making it a top destination for anyone who loves water sports or idle lounging. This is a must for anyone looking into Morocco beach holidays and coastal cities.

There are fiestas throughout the year (some even dedicated exclusively to tourism).

Thanks to its popularity, Agadir is also home to some brilliant hotels.

Come to Agadir to enjoy beaches developed for your recreational pleasure.

Essaouira Beach

Located on the Atlantic coast.

Claimed to be the best city beach in Morocco and one of the loveliest urban beaches in North Africa.

The Essaouira was chosen for our top beaches, because it combines a beautiful natural scenery, a wonderful beach and a pretty resort town.

The Essaouira beach is exposed to the full power of the Atlantic Ocean; it's popular with confident surfers due to its massive waves.

Essaouira is bound to the ocean by its beautiful beaches and promises you a most pleasant stay!

Dakhla Beach

Dakhla feels like heaven on earth.

Most people visit Dakhla for sun, sea, and sand. Perfect for beach hopping, Dakhla beach is a Quality Coast award winning destination.

In addition to the temptation to swim or surf cast, you can get moving with the trendiest water activities. In fact, since 2014 the Dakhla City has been ranked as the world's top spot for wave and wind sports.

Take in the charms of "Pearl of Morocco".

El Hoceima Beach

Located Northern Morocco on the Mediterranean Coast.

Brighten up your life with a trip to El Hoceima (known for isolated beaches and the Rif Mountains that are popular among hikers).

El Hoceima Beach is considered one of the world’s most beautiful beaches with crystal clear water and gorgeous white sand.

El Hoceima Beach is the place to go if you’re seeking an escape.

Tetouan Beaches

The jewel of the Mediterranean.

Tetouan is one of Morocco's great cities: stylish and chic with fabulous architecture, excellent cuisine, cutting edge clubs and bars and a beach. It’s an ideal starting point for your journey.

The coastal town of Martil is 11 kilometres east of Tetouan, while Fnideq is 35 kilometres and Mdiq is 14 kilometres (boasting exquisite restaurants and the most luxurious resorts and hotels).

Saidia Beach

Located in the province of Oujda.

If you’re looking for just a tad more adventure, Saidia beach will keep you going long after sunset.

The 16 klm coastline offers one of Morocco’s most beautiful and appreciated beaches. Enjoy the warm Mediterranean climate, the golden sand and the calm of the city.

Sidi Kaouki Beach

Two hours from Essaouira, Sidi Kaoukii is one of Morocco’s most family-friendly beach towns. With plenty of hiking trails and a beautiful beach, Sidi Kaouki sounds like a true paradise.

Assilah Beach

This fishing village is located on Morocco's Atlantic coast. Here, fishing and tourists fuel the local economy.

Fine white sands of Assilah beach are sure to please you. This beach is regarded as one of the best beaches in Morocco (Enjoy being in the warm waters of this exquisite beach).

Don’t miss visiting Assilah beach.

Oualidia Beach

If you prefer calmer waters, the small town of Oualidia is your next beach destination (it offers sandy coves and perfect waters for kayaking or fishing expeditions).

Ain Diab Beach

Located on the Atlantic coastline.

When Moroccans who live in Casablanca go to the beach, they head to Ain Diab. A half hour’s drive (or 30 minutes by tram) from downtown Casablanca.

Ain Diab's blanket of golden sand is flanked by beach restaurants and upmarket whitewashed homes. You’ll find plenty of bars along the promenade.

Tcharrana Beach

Crystal clear blue waters and the golden sands make for a perfect relaxation area.

This beach is found in the coastal city of Nador.

El Jadida Beach

Close to town, pleasant and clean. The people are friendly.

Explore El Jadida beaches by sun bathing and spending a leisure time at the coast. El jadida earns the fame of being one of the most popular tourist attractions (that is adorned by picture perfect beaches).

White sandy beaches and old charming villages in the vicinity make El Jadida a perfect vacation hot spot.

Enjoy eating fresh seafood.   

Taghazout Plage

During the summer season, Taghazout (A few kilometers from Agadir), becomes a haven for windsurfers and beach purists.

Taghazout is a place where time is irrelevant the locals are kind and helpful. The main activities are fishing, tourism and Argan oil production.

Imsouane Beach

Imsouane is a stunning little fishing village (nestled between Essaouira and Agadir) which has been remarkably preserved. Surfing and fishing are the two main activities.

Tangier Town Beach

Located where the Atlantic Ocean meets the Mediterranean in northern Morocco.

Quite possibly the best city beach in Africa, let alone Morocco.

The birthplace of Ibn Battuta is a cultural hub in the north, but Tangier has so much more to offer.

Tangier's beaches aren't at the top of this list, but we definitely still recommend checking them out since it's the quintessential Moroccan beach town. 

Tangier has some of the most interesting hotels in Morocco.

Nador Beach

Make sure you explore pristine Nador beach which is adorned by sleepy villages. It is one of the loveliest beaches in Morocco. Nador is a bustling town (that offers you the taste of Moroccan Mediterranean life). Plan to visit this exquisite beach any time between April and June to spot thousands of feathers birds flying over the Nador Mountains and crossing to the Europe. 

There’s plenty to draw you to Morocco already: Architecture, world class art, fabulous food... With its fantastic coastline, 3500 kilometres of fine sandy beaches, Mororoco is one of the best-known Mediterranean destinations for seaside holidays.

Morocco's beaches are most crowded during July and August when Moroccans join throngs of foreign tourists to escape the heat.

Surrounded by water on all sides, Morocco’s miles and miles of unique beaches. From picturesque seascapes to swimming coves, there's something for everyone.

Come to Morocco to enjoy beaches developed for your recreational pleasure.