One of the festival’s hallmark features is the participation of many Moroccan Gnaoua Maalems as well some very well known international artists who will grace the stage with their captivating performances deeply rooted in tradition and culture. Renowned for its unique concept of unprecedented fusions, the Essaouira Gnaoua and World Music Festival stands out in the international music calendar.

Among the 400 artists set to perform at this milestone edition, the festival will host 34 Gnaoua maâlems and present a total of 53 concerts, including six fusion concerts that promise to captivate audiences with their innovative soundscapes.

The opening concert sets the tone for the festival with an explosion of rhythms blending Gnaoua, Brazilian Batucada, Spanish Flamenco, and Zaouli from Côte d’Ivoire. Maâlem Hassan Boussou and Maâlem Mly Taieb Dehbi will join forces with artists from Côte d’Ivoire, Spain, and Brazil for a highly festive and culturally enriching performance.

Another highlight of the festival is the fusion between Mâalem Hamid El Kasri and the group Bokanté from the USA and Canada, promising an unforgettable experience that combines traditional Moroccan sounds with contemporary influences.

The festival also shines a spotlight on rising stars and world-renowned artists alike. Audiences can look forward to performances by multilingual Palestinian rapper Saint Levant, the dynamic duo Aita mon amour, and the mesmerizing Spanish flamenco singer Buika, among others. Legendary American jazz trumpeter Randy Brecker, a seven-time Grammy Award winner, will also grace the stage, adding to the festival’s diverse and eclectic lineup.

Since its inception in 1998, the Gnaoua and World Music Festival of Essaouira has grown to become one of the most significant cultural events in Morocco and across the continent. With its sharp yet accessible program, the festival continues to attract thousands of visitors from around the world, as well as artists and intellectuals. Rooted in a philosophy of sharing, discovery, and artistic excellence, the festival offers a unique and unforgettable experience that celebrates the richness of world music and cultural exchange.

The decision to deploy this top-tier aircraft reflects United’s confidence in attracting affluent leisure travelers who value upgraded seating options. The abundance of premium seats also raises the possibility of more award availability in Polaris business class, providing added value for frequent flyers.

United’s choice of aircraft underscores its strategic approach to maximizing aircraft utilization during the winter months when demand for travel to Europe typically diminishes. By redirecting the “high J” Boeing 767-300ER to Marrakech, United aims to capitalize on the burgeoning market for premium leisure travel to this exotic destination.

Upon its launch, United will emerge as the sole airline offering consistent service between the United States and Marrakech. While Moroccan flag carrier Royal Air Maroc operates occasional flights between Washington, D.C., and Marrakech, most of its U.S. services are centered around its hub in Casablanca. United’s new route signifies its commitment to expanding its global network and catering to the evolving preferences of travelers seeking unique and immersive experiences.

For years, Royal Air Maroc has maintained a monopoly on nonstop flights from the U.S. to Morocco, with routes from Miami, New York, and Washington, D.C. Travelers bound for Morocco have typically needed to commence their journeys in Casablanca or connect onward from there to popular destinations like Marrakech and Fez.

However, United’s new nonstop service is changing the game entirely. With Morocco’s burgeoning popularity as a tourist destination, there’s strong potential for this new route to thrive.

“The idea has been on the table for some time now,” explained Quayle. “What ultimately sealed the deal were several key factors aligning perfectly. It was like the perfect storm – CNN, The New York Times, and The Points Guy all named Morocco as a top destination to visit, and it had been on my radar as well. It just felt like the right time to make it happen.”

Moreover, United has a track record of successfully launching and expanding routes to Africa. With existing services to Accra, Ghana; Lagos, Nigeria; and Cape Town and Johannesburg, South Africa, the airline is well-positioned to further enhance its presence on the continent.

Building upon the momentum generated by the Tangier-Casablanca line, which has significantly reduced travel times and enhanced accessibility between these two major cities, Morocco’s national railway operator, the Office National des Chemins de Fer du Maroc (ONCF), is leading the charge towards further expansion. With plans in motion to extend the existing high-speed rail line to Marrakech, followed by Agadir, Morocco aims to create a seamless transportation network that will revolutionize travel across the kingdom.

The extension of the high-speed rail line to Marrakech holds immense promise for both locals and tourists alike. As one of Morocco’s most iconic destinations, Marrakech beckons visitors with its bustling medinas, vibrant souks, and breathtaking historical sites. By integrating Marrakech into the high-speed rail network, travelers will enjoy expedited access to this cultural hub, allowing for more time to immerse themselves in the city’s rich tapestry of sights, sounds, and flavors.

Furthermore, the extension of the high-speed rail line to Agadir marks a significant milestone in Morocco’s transportation infrastructure development. Nestled along the picturesque Atlantic coast, Agadir boasts sun-drenched beaches, vibrant markets, and a lively seaside promenade. With the introduction of high-speed rail service to Agadir, travelers will have the opportunity to seamlessly journey from the bustling metropolis of Casablanca to the laid-back coastal charm of Agadir, unlocking new possibilities for leisure and exploration.

Beyond its implications for tourism, the expansion of Morocco’s high-speed rail network underscores the kingdom’s commitment to sustainable development and economic growth. By investing in modern transportation infrastructure, Morocco aims to stimulate economic activity, create jobs, and promote regional integration, ultimately fostering greater prosperity for its citizens and communities.

As Morocco charts a course towards a more connected and prosperous future, the expansion of the high-speed rail network from Tangier to Marrakech and Agadir stands as a testament to the kingdom’s vision and ambition. With each mile of track laid and each station built, Morocco paves the way for a brighter tomorrow, where opportunities abound and boundaries dissolve in the face of progress.

For tourists, the high speed railway offers unparalleled convenience and accessibility, providing a seamless means of traversing the kingdom’s most captivating destinations. Whether it’s savoring the fresh seafood delights of Agadir’s bustling port, exploring the ancient wonders of Marrakech’s medina, or experiencing the vibrant energy of Casablanca’s bustling boulevards, the possibilities are endless aboard Al Boraq.

CNN Travel, the esteemed American travel e-magazine, has unveiled its latest ranking of the world’s fastest trains, placing Morocco’s high-speed marvel, Al Boraq, at an impressive sixth position. This recognition underscores the remarkable strides made by Morocco in advancing its transportation infrastructure and solidifies Al Boraq’s status as a leading player in the global high-speed rail arena. With its sleek design, cutting-edge technology, and impressive speeds, Al Boraq continues to captivate travelers and redefine the standards of modern rail travel.

Morocco’s inclusion in this elite list is a testament to its diverse landscapes and breathtaking architecture, which have long been favored by travelers seeking an immersive cultural experience. While iconic cities like Marrakech, Rabat, and Fez continue to draw visitors with their bustling markets and historic landmarks, CNN encourages travelers to venture off the beaten path and explore the lesser-known treasures that lie within the kingdom.

Among these hidden gems are the UNESCO-listed cities of Tetouan and Meknes, whose ancient medinas and architectural wonders offer a glimpse into Morocco’s storied past. Despite receiving fewer tourists than their more famous counterparts, Tetouan and Meknes exude a charm and authenticity that is truly unparalleled.

CNN’s feature also shines a spotlight on Morocco’s commitment to sustainable tourism, recognizing the country as a global leader in this regard. From initiatives promoting renewable energy production to the presence of eco-friendly accommodations like the Berber-run Kasbah du Toubkal, Morocco is paving the way for a more responsible approach to travel.

In line with broader trends in the travel industry, CNN notes a significant uptick in tourist activity compared to pre-pandemic levels, signaling a renewed interest in exploration and adventure. However, the media outlet underscores the importance of seeking out destinations that are still largely undiscovered, highlighting the appeal of off-season travel and the opportunity to support local communities.

Essaouira’s recent accolade as one of Travel Lemming’s top 50 destinations further underscores Morocco’s diverse appeal, particularly along its stunning coastline. With tourist arrivals surpassing 13.2 million as of November 2023 and tourism revenues experiencing a notable increase, Morocco’s blend of tradition, modernity, and sustainability continues to captivate travelers from around the globe.

As we look ahead to 2024, Morocco stands poised to welcome visitors with open arms, inviting them to discover the magic of this enchanting destination and create memories that will last a lifetime. Whether exploring ancient cities, traversing the Sahara Desert, or simply savoring the flavors of Moroccan cuisine, there is something for every traveler to enjoy in this vibrant and welcoming country.

Notably, Moroccans Living Abroad made up 51% of these arrivals, indicating a noteworthy 27% growth from the previous year. Concurrently, there was a notable 41% increase in foreign tourists compared to 2022, accounting for 49% of the overall arrivals and marking a three-point gain from the preceding year.

Fatim-Zahra Ammor, the Minister of Tourism, expressed her satisfaction with these achievements, stating that despite the challenges posed by the Al Haouz earthquake, the Kingdom exceeded the 12 million visitor mark in 2023. She emphasized that these accomplishments underscore the success of efforts to promote and diversify Morocco’s source markets.

The tourism sector’s resilience is particularly commendable given the adverse impact of the Al Haouz earthquake on the Marrakech region in September of the previous year. Nevertheless, Ammor affirmed that this is just the beginning, with Morocco setting ambitious targets for the future.

The Kingdom aims to achieve 17.5 million visitors by 2026 by introducing new airline routes, with aspirations to reach 26 million by 2030 when it co-hosts the World Cup with Spain and Portugal.

The achievement of 14.5 million tourists significantly surpasses the initial target outlined in the Ministry’s Tourism Roadmap 2023-2026, which aimed for 13.5 million visitors. This success reflects Morocco’s resilience under the leadership of His Majesty King Mohammed VI and underscores the collective dedication of the government and industry stakeholders.

Furthermore, the tourism profits climbed to MAD 97.4 billion ($9.8 billion) by the end of November last year, representing a noteworthy 15.8% increase from the previous year. Ammor emphasized that this achievement goes beyond mere numbers; it symbolizes Morocco’s resilience and determination to thrive in the face of challenges.