Morocco's $1.7 Billion Initiative to Transform Draa Tafilalet into a Premier Ecotourism Destination
Morocco is setting an ambitious course to revolutionize its tourism industry with a $1.7 billion investment aimed at developing Draa Tafilalet into a leading ecotourism hub. This initiative, announced by Imad Barrakad, the President of the Moroccan Tourist Engineering Society (SMIT), at a Development and Solidarity Council meeting in Rabat, seeks to harness the unique natural and cultural resources of the region to foster environmental sustainability and generate local employment opportunities.
Strategic Development Focus
The cornerstone of this initiative is the "Desert & Oasis Adventure" sector, which highlights the distinct desert landscapes and rich cultural heritage of the area. The plan is multi-faceted, encompassing a broad spectrum of enhancements aimed at making Draa Tafilalet a top choice for eco-conscious travelers:
Improving Air Travel Infrastructure: To make the region more accessible, there is a significant focus on aligning air travel supply with demand. This development is crucial in ensuring that the increased flow of tourists can be managed effectively and sustainably.
Upgrading Tourism Services and Infrastructure: The plan includes substantial investments in the tourism infrastructure to offer superior visitor experiences. This includes not only physical upgrades but also improvements in governance and the implementation of professional management practices.
Establishment of a Regional Development Society (SDR): A new organization will be formed involving SMIT, the Ministry of Oversight, and the Regional Council to oversee the implementation of public projects that align with local priorities and integrate diverse tourism offerings like nature trekking, hiking, and desert and oasis explorations.
Financial Strategies and Investments
To support these ambitious goals, the SMIT has outlined several key financial strategies:
Tourism Accommodations: An investment of MAD 515 million ($50 million) will be directed towards expanding and upgrading tourism accommodations. This includes the renovation of existing facilities and the development of charming hotels and alternative rural stays. A notable project includes establishing a green resort in Isli and Tislite.
Enhancing Tourism Visibility: An additional MAD 732 million ($68 million) will focus on improving signage and enhancing prominent sites such as the Todgha and Dades Gorges and the Sijilmassa archaeological site.
Renovation of Tourist Sights: Further, MAD 429 million ($40 million) will fund the renovation of existing tourist sights and experiences to enhance their appeal.
Moreover, the Moukawala Siyahia mechanism will provide partial subsidies up to MAD 30 million ($2.8 million) for targeted tourism projects, including climbing clubs and sand therapy centers. Smaller projects will benefit from the Go Siyaha mechanism, which supports initiatives under MAD 10 million ($900,000).
This extensive investment by SMIT is set to position Draa Tafilalet not only as a cornerstone of Morocco’s tourism strategy but also as a model for sustainable and ecologically responsible travel globally. By enhancing both the infrastructure and the range of experiences offered, SMIT aims to solidify Draa Tafilalet's status on the global tourism map, promising a rich blend of adventure, culture, and sustainability for future visitors.
We are rally excited at this news as it aligns with our core beliefs on eco-tourism and responsible travel!