Summer 2025 marks a decisive shift for Morocco’s tourism sector. After several months of consultation, the adoption of the complementary decree to Law 80-14 is now imminent. This measure will officially integrate non-classified tourist accommodations – such as riads, guesthouses, and short-term rental apartments – into the country’s recognized national hotel infrastructure.
At Atlasimmobilier, with over two decades of experience in Marrakech and Essaouira, we welcome this long-awaited evolution. It’s a move that will benefit the entire sector.
The End of Unequal Competition
For formal operators, this reform brings much-needed relief. For years, those who followed the rules – hotels, registered guesthouses, managed residences – have faced competition from an informal market free from the same regulatory and tax burdens. The result was a growing imbalance that became increasingly difficult to justify.
As of 2027, accommodations included in the new framework are expected to contribute to at least a 10% increase in registered overnight stays. More importantly, a level playing field will finally be established.
A Real Opportunity for Non-Registered Hosts
On the other side, informal operators are not being blamed or penalized. In fact, they are now recognized for what they truly are: dynamic, motivated actors, often eager to comply but held back by heavy administrative requirements, high initial costs, or a lack of clear guidance.
The new regulation offers them a path forward: a 24-month window to bring their properties up to standard in a progressive, flexible, and pragmatic way. This is not a punishment – it’s a long-overdue recognition.
Fairer Taxation, Offset by Strong Growth
Yes, joining the formal system means becoming taxable. But there is no need for alarm. What is gained in clarity, legitimacy, and stability far outweighs the additional obligations. And let’s not forget:
-
Tourism in Morocco is growing rapidly.
-
The average spending per traveler is increasing.
-
Official overnight stays are expected to surge.
In reality, any new taxes will be offset by greater volume, improved profitability, and stronger credibility with platforms, financial institutions, and professional partners.
A Win-Win-Win Reform
For us at Atlasimmobilier, this reform is a win on all fronts:
-
For property owners and investors, who will see their assets better valued and more deeply integrated into the national tourism ecosystem.
-
For the Moroccan government, which will strengthen its fiscal revenues while improving destination marketing.
-
And for travelers, who will benefit from a more reliable, higher-quality, and professionally regulated offering.
Looking ahead to 2027, the entire sector is set to scale up. Marrakech alone accounts for nearly 30,000 informal beds out of 80,000 available. It’s high time those accommodations were brought into the legal framework.
A new balance is emerging – between flexibility and standards, tradition and modernity.
And as always, we at Atlasimmobilier will stand by those who are ready to turn these changes into lasting opportunities.
Morocco tourism reform 2025, informal tourist accommodation, Law 80-14 Morocco, tourism decree Morocco, non-classified riads, short-term rentals Morocco, Airbnb Marrakech regulation, legal tourism Morocco, accommodation classification Morocco, tourism real estate Marrakech, riad investment Morocco, lodging capacity Morocco, unfair competition tourism, accommodation taxation Morocco, tourist overnights Morocco, Marrakech tourism 2025, Atlasimmobilier, accommodation regulation Morocco, Moroccan tourism market, Morocco travel experience
