World Bank cautions climate change may threaten Morocco’s tourism aspirations

Morocco is committing $8 billion to attract 26 million tourists annually by 2030, coinciding with its role as a co-host of the FIFA World Cup. While the country welcomed just over half that number last year, its tourism industry continues to grow. However, a recent World Bank report cautions that climate change could undermine Morocco's tourism ambitions.

Identified as a "climate hotspot," Morocco is especially vulnerable to climate-related impacts. The country has experienced temperatures and coastal erosion at rates nearly double the global average in recent decades.

The World Bank warns that increasing erosion could damage much of Morocco’s tourism infrastructure, while soaring temperatures may make the country less appealing to visitors. The report highlights that rising temperatures could push tourists to choose alternative destinations.

By 2035, climate-induced declines in tourism are expected to result in a 14-32% reduction in jobs within Morocco’s hotel and restaurant industries. Other sectors tied to tourism are also forecasted to suffer significant setbacks.

The report's authors advise Morocco to implement resilience strategies, which include redesigning buildings to better accommodate extreme heat and shifting towards more sustainable tourism practices.