Africa's inaugural United Nations Tourism Innovation Bureau will be situated in Rabat, Morocco.
Morocco has taken a significant step forward in the development of tourism across Africa by signing an agreement to establish Africa's first UN Tourism thematic bureau in Rabat. This move is a testament to Morocco's solid tourism infrastructure and strong post-pandemic recovery, as evidenced by record visitor arrivals.
The UN Tourism thematic bureau in Rabat will act as a hub for knowledge exchange and the coordination of policy frameworks across the region. It will also serve as a major catalyst for innovation in Africa's tourism sector, building upon Morocco's recognised leadership in tourism innovation.
The bureau's primary objective is to promote the socioeconomic transformation of African tourism destinations through innovative initiatives. It aims to position tourism as a key driver of development across the continent, aligning with King Mohammed VI's vision for unified African cooperation.
The bureau will also ensure that tourism development delivers real benefits to local communities through inclusive and equitable growth strategies. It encourages partnerships that unlock the sector's vast potential in Africa, fostering sustainable and responsible tourism practices.
The agreement outlines administrative structures and mutual obligations as defined in Article 5 of the headquarters agreement signed between the Moroccan government and UN Tourism in January 2025. The signing took place during the 123rd session of the UN Tourism Executive Council in Spain.
The bureau's creation reinforces Morocco's pivotal role in shaping the future of African tourism, offering technical expertise and encouraging innovation. Notably, Morocco's Ambassador to Spain, Karima Benyaich, was present to witness the signing ceremony.
The UN Tourism thematic bureau in Rabat will advance UN Tourism's 2030 agenda for Africa, focusing on sustainable development, inclusivity, and economic growth. As such, it represents a significant milestone in Morocco's ongoing efforts to enhance tourism and economic development, both domestically and across the African continent.
For more precise information about the bureau's specific role and objectives, it would be necessary to consult official UN or Moroccan government sources directly. As a hub for diplomatic relations, Morocco's vibrant tourism industry, which includes a mix of cultural, historical, and natural attractions, could potentially facilitate international cooperation in tourism development.
The UN Tourism thematic bureau in Rabat, by serving as a hub for knowledge exchange and innovation, will significantly contribute to Africa's education-and-self-development and technology sectors, as it aims to promote sustainable and responsible tourism practices. Moreover, the bureau's establishment reinforces Morocco's position as a leader in technology innovation within the general-news realm, particularly in the field of tourism development.
