Marrakech Tourism Surges: Hotels Fully Booked for Eid al-Fitr Weekend

Marrakech hotels were full of domestic and foreign tourists last weekend, on the occasion of the celebration of Eid al-Fitr marking the end of the Ramadan fast. "An exceptional buzz is largely explained by the coincidence of Eid festivities and the start of school holidays in France, providing an invaluable opportunity for the 230 hotels in the city," says L’Économiste.

Lahcen Zelmat, vice-president of the regional tourism council of Marrakech/Safi, quoted by the daily, explains that with "advertising campaigns, across-the-board promotions and the desire to travel, the rush of domestic tourists has managed to reproduce the seasonal miracle for Marrakech." The specialized daily adds that "this prosperous period also benefits merchants and craftsmen in the medina, as well as owners of seasonal rentals such as Airbnb, who are also experiencing strong demand."

"Even if bookings and sales related to the spring holidays were concluded several weeks ago, last-minute bookings are still the norm and sometimes represent up to 30% of arrivals," the publication notes. According to professionals, tourist arrivals in Marrakech increased by 10% and overnight stays by 12% between January and April 2024 compared to the same period in 2023. Around 700,000 overnight stays were recorded during the month of January.

Events are also back in Marrakech and the rest of the season looks promising. "Events are resuming in April with the second edition of Gitex Africa Morocco, under the high royal patronage. A major event in the field of digital and technological innovation scheduled for May 29-31, 2024," the publication writes, indicating that some 50,000 buyer visitors, 1,800 exhibitors and 550 ministerial delegations are expected for this event.