In February 2025, Rabat will witness the groundbreaking of a major new development—an entire city dedicated to gaming. This marks a crucial milestone in Morocco’s strategy to become a dominant player in Africa’s growing gaming industry. With a vision to foster local talent, elevate cultural heritage, and build a thriving ecosystem, the country is positioning itself to capitalize on a rapidly expanding global market.
A blossoming industry with huge potential
Over the past decade, gaming has emerged as one of the most dynamic cultural and economic sectors worldwide. With a market value nearing $300 billion, it captivates millions of players and professionals alike. In Morocco, the industry is still in its infancy but is already gaining momentum. The local gaming market is valued at 2.24 billion dirhams and boasts developers and pro gamers who are starting to make a name for themselves on the international stage.
To sustain this growth, Morocco’s Ministry of Youth, Culture, and Communication has implemented a national strategy focused on five key pillars: infrastructure, education, incubation, communication, and governance. This holistic approach has sparked the formation of a vibrant community of game developers, startups, and expatriate talent contributing to the sector’s evolution.
The gaming city: A hub for innovation
Slated to open in 2026, Rabat’s gaming city is a clear testament to Morocco’s commitment to nurturing its gaming industry. This state-of-the-art hub will feature offices, studios, and creative spaces tailored to both local and international gaming enterprises. It aims to provide a fertile environment where creativity and innovation can flourish—stepping away from traditional business models and embracing a more dynamic, sector-specific approach.
In addition to Rabat, new infrastructure projects are being planned across the country, including key sites in Casablanca and other regions, reinforcing gaming’s presence in Morocco’s economic landscape.
Spotlight on major events driving growth
The recent success of the first Morocco Gaming Expo, held in May under royal patronage, highlights the growing excitement around the sector. This event attracted a diverse range of investors, industry experts, and foreign professionals, offering Moroccan talent invaluable opportunities to network and learn from the best in the business.
The 2025 edition of the expo is set to be even bigger. Organizers aim to quadruple the size of the e-sports arena and expand the exhibition platform, reflecting the industry’s accelerating pace. These high-profile events are crucial to promoting Moroccan startups and building strategic partnerships with global players.
Gaming as a catalyst for jobs and cultural promotion
For many young Moroccans, gaming is far more than just a hobby; it’s a gateway to promising career paths. The government estimates that by 2030, the sector will generate over 6,000 direct jobs across more than 70 professions. These roles will span fields such as 2D and 3D animation, game programming, sound design, and marketing. Additionally, the technical skills developed through gaming can easily be transferred to industries like aerospace and automotive manufacturing.
On the cultural front, video games are proving to be powerful tools for showcasing Morocco’s heritage. Local developers are incorporating elements of traditional culture—such as historical landmarks and iconic clothing like the jellaba and caftan—into their games. These culturally rich productions, when distributed internationally, help to enhance Morocco’s global reputation and identity.
Technology at the heart of gaming’s future
As the gaming industry evolves, new technologies such as artificial intelligence (AI) are transforming how games are developed and played. AI can create immersive, real-time experiences tailored to individual users, but it also presents challenges related to ethics, energy consumption, and regulation. Morocco will need to develop training programs to prepare professionals for emerging roles in responsible innovation management and regulatory oversight.
Morocco’s ambition: An African powerhouse in gaming
With its youthful population, rich cultural assets, and forward-thinking economic strategies, Morocco is well-positioned to become a leading hub for gaming in Africa. Investments in specialized infrastructure, internationally recognized events, and cutting-edge technologies will be key to building a sustainable, competitive ecosystem. This burgeoning sector, which blends creativity and technological innovation, offers exciting opportunities for investment, employment, and cultural diplomacy.
