Photo by Rigel via Unsplash
A new regional initiative is set to strengthen small and medium-sized tourism businesses in Essaouira, as part of a broader development strategy for the Marrakech-Safi region.
Launched in partnership with the Regional Council of Marrakech-Safi, the program targets SMEs operating across accommodation, tourist experiences, restaurants, handicrafts, and tourism-related services. The objective is clear: help local operators structure their offers, improve market visibility, and strengthen their digital presence.
Structuring Offers and Enhancing Digital Visibility
The initiative focuses on supporting businesses according to their level of maturity. Some enterprises require assistance in formalizing and packaging their services, while others aim to refine branding and expand online accessibility.
Many tourism offerings in Essaouira are recognized for their authenticity and creativity but remain under-promoted. By improving digital communication, strategic positioning, and service structuring, the program seeks to unlock greater value for local operators.
The launch in Essaouira mobilized strong local engagement, bringing together authorities, the Provincial Tourism Council, tourism and handicraft delegations, civil society representatives, and private stakeholders.
A Favorable Tourism Climate for the “City of the Winds”
The initiative arrives at a moment of positive tourism momentum. Essaouira continues to record growth in arrivals and overnight stays, reinforcing its reputation as one of Morocco’s most distinctive destinations.
Known as the “City of the Winds,” Essaouira recently received international recognition at the 13th Creative Tourism Awards, winning the “Best Creative Living Heritage Destination” prize. The distinction highlights the city’s strong cultural identity, creative heritage, and sustainable tourism positioning.
As Morocco advances its tourism strategy toward 2030, regional programs like this demonstrate how local ecosystems are being strengthened from within, ensuring that growth benefits entrepreneurs, artisans, and service providers at every level.
Source: Femmesdumaroc
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