TCA Abu Dhabi targets Morocco to attract tourism

Abu Dhabi has the potential to become a leading tourism destination from Morocco, according to a delegation of travel industry leaders on a recent trip to the emirate.

Citing a combination of first-class infrastructure, top-class accommodation, an extensive array of attractions for the family and impressive air access, the Moroccan tour operators believe the emirate can gain a larger slice of outbound travel from their country.

The 10-strong trade delegation, guests of TCA Abu Dhabi and Etihad Airways, visited many of the emirate's top attractions on their four-day visit, including the Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque and Yas Island, for first-hand experiences of the world's largest indoor theme park Ferrari World Abu Dhabi, the award-winning Yas Waterworld, the iconic Yas Viceroy Abu Dhabi, the only hotel in the world to straddle a formula one race track and Yas Mall, the second largest retail nexus in the UAE.

"We have seen year-on-year hotel guest arrivals growth from Morocco of 40 percent, putting the country in the top four of overseas markets showing the strongest growth," said Mubarak Al Nuaimi, Director of Promotions and Overseas Offices, TCA Abu Dhabi. "Only China, Oman and Switzerland improved more than Morocco.

"This performance persuaded us to stage an inbound familiarisation trip for the Moroccan travel trade who will help us convert further business from the country. We hope the sheer range of world-class attractions and top-level accommodation will leave a hugely positive impression."

The delegation also explored some of the UAE capital's other delights including Emirates Palace, Jumeirah at Etihad Towers and The Marriot Hotel as well as the World Trade Centre development. The group also visited what will be the emirates' cultural centre, Saadiyat Island, where they took in Manarat Al Saadiyat, The St. Regis Saadiyat Island as well as the Corniche Breakwater's Heritage Village.

The group completed their journey around the emirate with a trip to the heritage heartland of Al Ain, where they explored Al Jahili Fort, Al Ain Palace Museum, the Zaman Lawal Heritage Village and finally the hotel on the highest peak in the emirate, The Mecure Grand Jebel Hafeet.

"There is significant stopover potential from corporate travellers who tend to transit to other destinations with Etihad via Abu Dhabi," added Al Nuaimi.

Etihad Airways now operates daily flights, with its codeshare partner Royal Air Maroc, from Casablanca to Abu Dhabi International Airport, 7 days a week.