Morocco is becoming one of Africa's most preferred tourist destinations as the region received a record 10.4 million tourists in 2016, an increase of 1.5 per cent compared to 2015.

Visitor numbers for 2017 also look positive as the kingdom received a total of 762,562 tourists in March, an increase of 3.7 per cent compared to the same period last year, according to the Ministry of Tourism, Air Transport, Handicraft and Social Economy. This increase was underpinned by the surge of the GCC tourists visiting Morocco during the same period.

Khadija El Idrissi, director of Communication and Public Relations at Mazagan Beach and Golf Resort stated that the profound increase in GCC tourists was mainly due to the higher spending power of GCC families as well as the number of persons in each family.

“Morocco is fast witnessing an increase in travellers from the Gulf. The increased number of air links between the two regions, the cost-effective prices offered by the country and the high disposal incomes of the people have encouraged more GCC tourists to visit this part of the world,” said El Idrissi.

Mazagan Beach & Golf Resort is one of Morocco’s most preferred tourist destinations. With a beautiful coast on one side, and a forest on the other, the resort is a perfect retreat for discerning travellers.

“GCC is a key market for Mazagan Beach & Golf Resort. As such, we are committed to designing unique tourism strategies that appeal to families and individuals alike. Our accommodation and entertainment options match European quality at better prices and with excellent climate throughout the year, the resort is a favourite destination of many tourists. In addition, the easy travel logistics and attractive packages make Mazagan a hit with the GCC visitors,” added El Idrissi.

Mazagan Beach and Golf Resort has always been the preferred destination for tourists from GCC because of its special characteristics that combine the magic of the East with the European beauty. Additionally, Mazagan Resort is a leading exhibition and a conference destination in North Africa region. The resort also offers to businessmen and their families exceptional entertaining stays where parents can have their own space, while their children enjoy their time in three dedicated clubs  which are 'Baby Club', 'Kids Club' and 'Club Rush'. The resort incorporates a stunning spa offering relaxation treatments and much more.

Tourism remains a vital pillar of the Moroccan economy and the country’s second biggest employer, after agriculture. The sector accounts for 10 per cent of national income and, along with exports and remittances from Moroccans overseas; it is one of the country’s main sources of foreign currency. A record number of 10.4 million tourists visited the kingdom in 2016 and the government is confident that the positive momentum will continue in years to come.

In addition, it has been noted that the growing trend by Muslims to travel during the fasting period will see destinations in the Middle East region become the most attractive by 2023 according to data and analysis from the inaugural MasterCard-Crescent Rating Ramadan Travel Report 2016. A total of 50 destinations across the globe were analysed in the study and benchmarked across three criteria – average daytime temperature, fasting duration and Global Muslim Travel Index 2016 scores – over the next 15 years until 2030. With Ramadan set to take place in cooler months from 2023, destinations as Morocco would lead the tourism industry.

“Over the past few years, Mazagan Beach and Golf Resort has stepped up its efforts to grow the number of GCC tourists visiting the country. As one of the most striking resorts in the world, Mazagan Beach and Golf Resort is perfect to keep visitors engaged and captivated for days with its world-class offerings. Any traveller who’s stayed or explored this scintillating combination of beauty and comfort will acknowledge that Mazagan Resort is one place that offers a classic experience of excellent food, timely service and a royal atmosphere,” concluded El Idrissi.

Mazagan Beach and Gulf Resort has been positioned as an elite tourist destination in Morocco. The resort is located 90 km to the south of Casablanca, in the middle of two ancient Moroccan cities, El Jadida and Azemmour. The five-star resort has 500 luxurious rooms. Each room has all means of comfort for families and individuals. The resort overlooks the Atlantic Ocean, which makes it a great touristic destination, to practice all water sports, surfing and beach sports. Mazagan Resort also has a Yoga studio which helps give the mind inner peace surrounded by the beauty of Morocco. The vast golf course has been designed by the famous golfer Gary Player. Mazagan’s famous restaurants serve the finest Moroccan, Arabic and European food. - TradeArabia News Service