The Moroccan Ministry of Tourism, Handicrafts, and Social and Solidarity Economy, in collaboration with the Moroccan Society of Tourism Engineering (SMIT), has announced the first results of its tourism incubation program launched in September 2024. With a budget of 156 million dirhams, this ambitious initiative is part of the country’s 2023-2026 roadmap. The goal is to enrich the national tourism offering by creating a new generation of high-value experiences designed to attract both domestic and international travelers.
During the announcement, Fatim-Zahra Ammor, Minister of Tourism, highlighted the strategic importance of this program. She explained that the initiative seeks to achieve more than just nurturing new projects. According to Ammor, it aims to stimulate investment and build an entirely new portfolio of experiences. By focusing on sectors such as gastronomy, gamification, and digital transformation, the government is positioning Morocco to stand out on the global tourism stage. These high-growth areas are expected to redefine how tourists engage with the country’s culture and heritage.
Out of hundreds of applications, 414 projects have been selected for development. A significant portion of these initiatives—253 projects—focus on enhancing the country’s culinary heritage. Proposals include innovative restaurant concepts that reinterpret local traditions as well as regional food tours that offer travelers the opportunity to explore Morocco’s diverse flavors. This emphasis on gastronomy responds to a growing demand for authentic, culturally immersive travel experiences.
The gaming sector has also captured attention, with 111 projects centered on creating interactive and immersive experiences. The selected projects range from historical escape games to augmented reality tours of cultural sites. These initiatives aim to bring Morocco’s history to life and appeal to tourists seeking a blend of entertainment and education.
In the digital arena, 50 projects have been approved. They focus on improving the tourist experience through technology, such as next-generation digital concierge services and booking platforms for accommodations like riads. These innovations are designed to simplify the planning process and make travel more seamless.
Entrepreneurs whose projects have been selected will now move on to the financing stage, where they will have the opportunity to secure grants of up to 400,000 dirhams. In addition, they will receive tailored support through partnerships with three specialized incubators. DiafaIncubator will mentor culinary entrepreneurs, Game Changer will provide expertise in gamification and immersive tourism, while CleverCouncil will guide digital projects in optimizing their technological transformation. These incubators will play a pivotal role in helping startups refine their ideas and successfully enter the market.
By harnessing innovation, Morocco is positioning itself as a leader in tourism transformation. This initiative underscores the country’s commitment to creating distinctive experiences that reflect its cultural richness while embracing modern trends and technologies.
