Russian Tourist Arrivals to Morocco Rise by 50% in 2025

Morocco is experiencing a significant increase in tourist arrivals from Russia in 2025, confirming the Kingdom’s growing appeal among Russian travelers. According to figures reported by specialized tourism media, more than 20,000 Russian visitors traveled to Morocco during the first nine months of the year, marking a 50% increase compared to the same period in 2024.

Industry publications note that Morocco, once considered a marginal destination for Russian tourists, is now increasingly perceived as stable, accessible, and culturally attractive. This shift comes amid changing travel preferences, with Russian travelers seeking cultural experiences, historic cities, and authentic urban heritage.

Rapid Growth of the Russian Market

Tourism analysts attribute the sharp rise in Russian arrivals to several key factors, including Morocco’s perceived safety, quality of hospitality, and continued promotion of its medinas, historical landmarks, and traditional crafts.

Moroccan authorities have also invested in the professional training of licensed tour guides, improving the overall visitor experience for Russian-speaking tourists and strengthening Morocco’s reputation as a culturally rich destination.

In 2025, Morocco welcomed a total of 19.8 million international visitors, positioning the country as the leading tourism destination in its region. Experts highlight that the Russian market is contributing disproportionately to this growth, with expansion rates well above the average of other source markets.

Expansion of Direct Air Connectivity

The surge in demand from Russia has been supported by a notable expansion of direct air routes. On January 21, Royal Air Maroc launched direct flights between Saint Petersburg and Casablanca, operating three times per week. Meanwhile, the Moscow–Casablanca route has increased to nine weekly flights.

Tourism professionals emphasize that the opening of the Saint Petersburg route removed a major barrier for Russian travelers, who previously relied on complex and time-consuming connections. This development led to an immediate rise in bookings, with load factors previously nearing saturation on Moscow departures.

Strong Booking Growth and High Spending

Specialized travel platforms report that Russian bookings to Morocco have increased by approximately 50% year-on-year. The average spending per booking is estimated at around 100,000 rubles (approximately 11,000 Moroccan dirhams), excluding airfare.

Industry experts note that Morocco meets the growing demand for destinations offering a balance between cultural discovery, natural landscapes, and seaside stays, without the downsides of mass tourism.