Morocco

World Book Index

Introduction

Morocco, a nation steeped in history and culture, has been shaped by a series of influential Muslim dynasties since the Arab conquest of North Africa in the 7th century. The establishment of the Sa'adi monarchy in the 16th century marked a significant turning point, particularly under the reign of Ahmad al-MANSUR from 1578 to 1603, when the kingdom successfully repelled foreign invaders and entered a golden age of prosperity and cultural flourishing. However, the 20th century brought challenges, as Morocco fell under French protectorate rule in 1912. The country’s struggle for independence culminated in 1956, paving the way for a new era of sovereignty and national identity.

Neighboring countries

Algeria - Mauritania - Spain

Geography

Area
Total: 716,550 sq km
Land: 716,300 sq km
Water: 250 sq km

Morocco's geography is characterized by its diverse landscapes, which range from the rugged Atlas Mountains to the expansive Sahara Desert. The country is bordered by the Atlantic Ocean to the west and the Mediterranean Sea to the north, providing it with a strategic maritime position. The climate varies significantly across regions; the northern areas experience a Mediterranean climate, while the interior regions face more extreme conditions, and the southern parts are dominated by hot, arid desert. Rainfall is scarce, and the cold offshore air currents contribute to fog and heavy dew, particularly along the coast. Morocco is rich in natural resources, including phosphates, iron ore, manganese, lead, zinc, fish, and salt, which play a crucial role in its economy.

People and Society

Population
Total: 37,387,585 (2024 estimated)

Ethnic groups
Arab-Amazigh 99%, other 1%

Languages
Arabic (official), Tamazight languages (Tamazight (official), Tachelhit, Tarifit), French (often the language of business, government, and diplomacy)

Religions
Muslim 99% (official; virtually all Sunni, <0.1% Shia), other 1% (includes Christian, Jewish, and Baha'i); note - Jewish about 3,000-3,500 (2020 estimated)

Population growth rate
0.84% (2024 estimated)

Morocco's population is predominantly Arab-Amazigh, reflecting a rich cultural heritage that blends indigenous and Arab influences. The official language is Arabic, with Tamazight languages also recognized, showcasing the country's commitment to its diverse linguistic roots. French serves as a vital language in business and government, highlighting Morocco's historical ties with France. The nation is overwhelmingly Muslim, with a small percentage of other religious groups, including Christians and Jews. The population growth rate of 0.84% indicates a gradual increase, which poses both opportunities and challenges for the country's socio-economic development.

Government

Government type
Parliamentary constitutional monarchy

Capital
Name: Rabat

Executive branch
Chief of state: King MOHAMMED VI (since 30 July 1999)
Head of government: Prime Minister Aziz AKHANNOUCH (since 7 October 2021)

Diplomatic representation in the US
Chief of mission: Ambassador Youssef AMRANI (since 27 February 2024)

Diplomatic representation from the US
Chief of mission: Ambassador (vacant); Chargé d'Affaires Ben ZIFF (since 28 August 2025)

Morocco operates as a parliamentary constitutional monarchy, where the King holds significant authority while a parliamentary system governs day-to-day affairs. The capital city, Rabat, serves as the political and administrative center. The current monarch, King MOHAMMED VI, has been in power since 1999, and his leadership has been marked by efforts to modernize the economy and promote social reforms. The Prime Minister, Aziz AKHANNOUCH, appointed in 2021, oversees the government’s executive functions. Morocco maintains diplomatic relations with various countries, including the United States, where it is represented by Ambassador Youssef AMRANI.

Economy

Economic overview
Lower middle-income North African economy; ongoing recovery from recent drought and earthquake; rebounding via tourism, manufacturing, and raw materials processing; significant trade and investment with EU; reform programs include fiscal rebalancing, state enterprise governance and private sector investments

Real GDP (purchasing power parity)
$350.594 billion (2024 estimated)
$339.603 billion (2023 estimated)
$328.425 billion (2022 estimated)

Real GDP per capita
$9,100 (2024 estimated)
$8,900 (2023 estimated)
$8,700 (2022 estimated)

Exports
$61.746 billion (2023 estimated)
$58.575 billion (2022 estimated)
$47.09 billion (2021 estimated)

Exports - partners
Spain 20%, France 17%, Germany 6%, UK 5%, Italy 4% (2023)

Exports - commodities
Fertilizers, cars, garments, insulated wire, tomatoes (2023)

Imports
$73.759 billion (2023 estimated)
$73.81 billion (2022 estimated)
$60.215 billion (2021 estimated)

Imports - partners
Spain 16%, China 11%, France 10%, USA 9%, Turkey 5% (2023)

Imports - commodities
Refined petroleum, cars, vehicle parts/accessories, natural gas, coal (2023)

Morocco's economy is classified as a lower middle-income economy, characterized by its ongoing recovery from recent challenges such as drought and earthquakes. The nation is rebounding through key sectors including tourism, manufacturing, and raw materials processing, which are vital for economic growth. The country enjoys significant trade and investment relationships with the European Union, which bolsters its economic stability. Reform programs aimed at fiscal rebalancing and enhancing state enterprise governance are underway, alongside initiatives to attract private sector investments. The Real GDP, measured in purchasing power parity, is projected to reach $350.594 billion in 2024, with a per capita GDP of $9,100. Exports are diverse, with key partners including Spain and France, and commodities ranging from fertilizers to automobiles. Conversely, imports primarily consist of refined petroleum and vehicles, reflecting the country's industrial needs.

Human Development Index

The country's Human Development Index (HDI) is 0.710, ranking it 120th out of 193 countries tested. (more information)

World Happiness Report

The World Happiness Report ranked the country 107th out of 158 countries tested with a score of 4.923. (more information)