12 billion dirhams: how Morocco is turning football into a cash machine

The influx is massive: between 600,000 and one million visitors, including supporters, delegations and officials, have stormed the host cities. This human tide significantly boosts domestic consumption, filling hotels, restaurants and keeping businesses and crafts running at full speed.

In this logistical ballet, Royal Air Maroc is spectacularly coming out on top. The national airline has transformed itself into a giant air bridge, planning to transport at least 500,000 supporters during the tournament, recalls Challenge.

The Casablanca hub is running at full capacity to connect Europe and African capitals like Dakar, Abidjan or Cairo. The result for RAM: additional revenues estimated at 1.5 billion dirhams. A financial boost that confirms the central role of the company in the Kingdom’s African strategy.

The impact is not limited to plane tickets and hotel nights. The event is a tremendous accelerator for employment, mobilizing thousands of young people in security, hospitality and logistics.

Above all, this 2025 AFCON is a dress rehearsal. Under the gaze of investors and international bodies, Morocco is proving its ability to manage massive flows and secure large-scale events. A crucial and successful credibility test, paving the way for the organization of the 2030 World Cup alongside Spain and Portugal.