Morocco is stepping up its tourism game with the rollout of five new regulatory decrees that flesh out Law 80-14, marking a major milestone in how the country structures and monitors its hospitality industry. This new framework comes at a crucial moment, as Morocco experiences a historic tourism boom—7.2 million visitors have arrived in just the first five months of the year.
The reform is designed to raise standards across the board, diversify accommodation offerings, and support the sector’s gradual move upmarket. For Fatim-Zahra Ammor, Minister of Tourism, Handicrafts, and the Social and Solidarity Economy, the changes represent a structural shift. It’s not just a regulatory tweak—it’s a deliberate break from outdated practices and a bold step toward aligning Morocco with top-tier international destinations.
At the heart of this transformation are two standout measures: the creation of a unified star-rating system and the introduction of undercover quality inspections. These tools aim to establish transparency and consistency in how all types of accommodations are evaluated.
For the first time, all lodging options—including riads, kasbahs, and guesthouses—will be assessed using the same criteria applied to traditional hotels. This unified system puts an end to the confusion that often surrounded the value of non-hotel stays and offers a clear benchmark for both international tourists and local travelers. It also opens the door for long-overlooked establishments to finally gain formal recognition and visibility.
Equally significant is the implementation of “mystery visits”—anonymous, on-the-ground evaluations conducted by inspectors posing as regular guests. Their role is to ensure that the star ratings displayed actually reflect the level of service delivered. With this approach, the guest experience becomes the ultimate measure of quality, not just checklists or official declarations.
The reform also introduces an ongoing review process. Star ratings won’t be permanent—newly listed establishments will be reassessed after seven years, and every five years thereafter. A two-year grace period has been granted to give hospitality providers time to align with the new standards.
By emphasizing transparency and raising the bar for service, this overhaul is part of a broader push to establish Morocco as a premier global travel destination—one that blends world-class hospitality with a distinctly local charm.
