Tourism: The Oriental at the Heart of the ONMT’s New Strategy
Long considered a quieter alternative to Morocco’s major tourist destinations, the Oriental region is gradually emerging as a new development hub. The Moroccan National Tourism Office (ONMT) is ramping up initiatives to highlight the potential of this still-underexploited area.
A Region with Untapped Advantages
With its Mediterranean coastline, mountainous backcountry, and rich cultural heritage, the Oriental region boasts a variety of tourist resources. However, this diversity has yet to translate into significant tourist traffic, primarily due to a lack of visibility and connectivity. It is precisely on these fronts that the ONMT intends to act, repositioning the region within national and international tourism circuits.
Enhanced Connectivity and Online Promotion
Improving accessibility is a top priority. The ONMT is focusing on bolstering air links and forming partnerships with transport operators to facilitate access to cities such as Oujda, Nador, and Saïdia. Simultaneously, targeted promotional campaigns are being launched to better publicize the destination to both foreign tourists and the domestic market.
Diversified and Sustainable Tourism
Beyond beach tourism, the strategy aims to diversify the tourist offering. Emphasis is placed on ecotourism, cultural tourism, and local experiences to meet travelers’ new demand for authenticity. This approach is also aligned with sustainability goals, aiming to enhance local resources while preserving environmental balances.
A Lever for Regional Development
By supporting the tourism growth of the Oriental, the ONMT is participating in a wider dynamic of territorial development. Tourism is seen as a driver of job creation and economic vitality for the region. Ultimately, the ambition is clear: to establish the Oriental as a fully-fledged destination capable of complementing Moroccan tourism and attracting an increasing share of visitor traffic.
