Major projects implemented, such as Tamuda Bay in Tetouan, Lixus near Larache, Houara, or Marina in Tangier, make the region one of the main tourist hubs targeted by Vision 2020. This was affirmed by the Minister of Tourism, Lahcen Haddad, during a meeting organised on Saturday, 22 December, in Tangier, with the Wali of the Tangier-Tetouan region, Mohamed Yacoubi, and tourism professionals, to discuss the current situation of tourism in the North Cape territory. "We are in the final phase of implementing the programme contract for the development of the tourism sector in the region," he indicated.

Among the problems mentioned during this meeting is the lack of air links. "We must work with tour operators, travel agencies, hoteliers, and with the help of the ministry, of course, to support air routes initially for Tangier and then at the Tetouan level," Mr Haddad specified.

According to the speaker, the famous historical monuments, including the Caves of Hercules, are planned to be renovated and restored as part of the Mdinti programme. There is also the development of an animation plan with the creation of two or three major festivals throughout the year, "to reduce the tourism seasonality from which Tetouan and Tangier suffer," said Mr Haddad. He added that professionals, authorities, and other stakeholders must mobilise to face the problems encountered by the sector in order "to make the region one of the most prized destinations in the Mediterranean".

Speaking on this occasion, Mustapha Boucetta, President of the Regional Tourism Council of the Tangier-Tetouan region, indicated that as part of improving the quality of their services, hoteliers have invested more than 600 million DH for the renovation of their capacities. Regarding the promotional aspect, "we have tried to ensure that the regional promotional action plan for the Tangier-Tetouan destination is in line with the promotional strategy of the Moroccan National Tourism Office (ONMT)," he stressed.

It should be remembered that Spain is the primary source market for the Tangier-Tetouan destination. "The ONMT, at the request of the CRT, has proceeded with the renovation of its representation in Torremolinos with a view to bringing closer the promotional actions undertaken in this market, in which all tour operators operating on the Costa del Sol are represented," he said, noting that "the inauguration of our office in Torremolinos will take place shortly and will be operational as soon as an ONMT agent is assigned there".