The city of Ifrane recently hosted a high-level international conference focused on sustainable tourism, organized by the Ministry of Tourism, Handicrafts, and Social and Solidarity Economy, in partnership with the Moroccan Tourism Engineering Company (SMIT). The central theme of this meeting was: “Developing Sustainable Tourism in Morocco: What Are the Prospects for Green Tourism?”
At the opening, Nizar Baraka, Minister of Equipment and Water, reminded attendees that while tourism generates jobs and revenue, it exerts significant pressure on already limited water resources. Hotels, golf courses, spas, and urban gardens further increase this demand, imposing new climatic and social constraints. The minister emphasized that preserving this resource is both a “major challenge” and a “national duty,” calling for a rethinking of the current tourism model.
For him, sustainability goes beyond mere technical dimensions. It relies on close coordination between the state, local communities, private operators, and local communities. Clear rules, targeted incentives, and transparent control mechanisms are essential to ensure rational consumption, the reuse of treated water, and compliance with environmental labels.
Baraka cited the integrated development program for Ifrane National Park as an example, with a budget of 734 million dirhams, of which 641 million is funded by the state. The goal is to revive tourism investment while enhancing ecological attractiveness. However, the minister stressed that sustainable transformation is not limited to figures: it requires inclusive governance, transparency in public markets, and guarantees for local communities and strict protection of the environment, particularly cedar forests and endangered species.
Imad Berrakad, Director General of SMIT, mentioned that numerous projects will be launched to structure the offer of sustainable tourism. He noted that Ifrane is already benefiting from a major initiative for the national park, involving both public and private stakeholders with a budget of 640 million dirhams aimed at creating an attractive tourist product for both national and international visitors.
According to Berrakad, Morocco currently hosts one million tourists in its classified establishments, and SMIT’s efforts aim to structure an offer capable of meeting visitor expectations while strengthening the sector’s competitiveness.
Abderrahim Houmy, Director General of the National Agency for Water and Forests, highlighted the importance of learning from successful international experiences that reconcile sustainable tourism with the protection of natural areas. He specified that the agency collaborates closely with the Ministry of Tourism to build an adapted Moroccan model that is environmentally respectful and generates economic opportunities.
This conference represents a further step in the national strategy to make Morocco a sustainable and competitive tourist destination by 2030. Under the leadership of His Majesty King Mohammed VI, the Kingdom aims to welcome 26 million visitors while consolidating a balanced model that is environmentally respectful and beneficial to all regions.