Knelstrom Intelligence · World Factbook
Morocco
Kingdom of Morocco
CapitalRabat
Population38,430,770
GDP$182.4bn
Area446,550 km²
RegionMiddle East, North Africa, Afghanistan & Pakistan
Data sources current · last checked September 20, 2026 2:11 am
Country facts
Overview
Background
In 788, about a century after the Arab conquest of North Africa, a series of Muslim dynasties began to rule in Morocco. In the 16th century, the Sa'adi monarchy, particularly under Ahmad al-MANSUR (1578-1603), repelled foreign invaders and inaugurated a golden age. The Alaouite Dynasty, to which the current Moroccan royal family belongs, dates from the 17th century. In 1860, Spain occupied northern Morocco and ushered in a half-century of trade rivalry among European powers that saw Morocco's sovereignty steadily erode; in 1912, the French imposed a protectorate over the country. A protracted independence struggle with France ended successfully in 1956. The internationalized city of Tangier and most Spanish possessions were turned over to the new country that same year. Sultan MOHAMMED V, the current monarch's grandfather, organized the new state as a constitutional monarchy and in 1957 assumed the title of king.
Since Spain's 1976 withdrawal from Western Sahara, Morocco has extended its de facto administrative control to roughly 75% of this territory; however, the UN does not recognize Morocco as the administering power for Western Sahara. The UN since 1991 has monitored a cease-fire, which broke down in late 2020, between Morocco and the Polisario Front -- an organization advocating the territory’s independence -- and restarted negotiations over the status of the territory in 2018. In 2020, the US recognized Morocco's sovereignty over all of Western Sahara.
In 2011, King MOHAMMED VI responded to the spread of pro-democracy protests in the North Africa region by implementing a reform program that included a new constitution, passed by popular referendum, under which some new powers were extended to parliament and the prime minister, but ultimate authority remains in the hands of the monarch. Later that year, the Justice and Development Party (PJD) -- a moderate Islamist democratic party -- won the largest number of seats in parliamentary elections, becoming the first Islamist party to lead the Moroccan Government. In 2015, Morocco held its first direct elections for regional councils, which was one of the reforms included in the 2011 constitution. The PJD again won the largest number of seats in nationwide parliamentary elections in 2016, but it lost its plurality to the probusiness National Rally of Independents (RNI) in 2021. In 2020, Morocco signed a normalization agreement with Israel, similar to those that Bahrain, the United Arab Emirates, and Sudan had concluded with Israel earlier that year.
Reference: 2021, 2020, 2018, 2016Since Spain's 1976 withdrawal from Western Sahara, Morocco has extended its de facto administrative control to roughly 75% of this territory; however, the UN does not recognize Morocco as the administering power for Western Sahara. The UN since 1991 has monitored a cease-fire, which broke down in late 2020, between Morocco and the Polisario Front -- an organization advocating the territory’s independence -- and restarted negotiations over the status of the territory in 2018. In 2020, the US recognized Morocco's sovereignty over all of Western Sahara.
In 2011, King MOHAMMED VI responded to the spread of pro-democracy protests in the North Africa region by implementing a reform program that included a new constitution, passed by popular referendum, under which some new powers were extended to parliament and the prime minister, but ultimate authority remains in the hands of the monarch. Later that year, the Justice and Development Party (PJD) -- a moderate Islamist democratic party -- won the largest number of seats in parliamentary elections, becoming the first Islamist party to lead the Moroccan Government. In 2015, Morocco held its first direct elections for regional councils, which was one of the reforms included in the 2011 constitution. The PJD again won the largest number of seats in nationwide parliamentary elections in 2016, but it lost its plurality to the probusiness National Rally of Independents (RNI) in 2021. In 2020, Morocco signed a normalization agreement with Israel, similar to those that Bahrain, the United Arab Emirates, and Sudan had concluded with Israel earlier that year.
Geography
Location
Northern Africa, bordering the North Atlantic Ocean and the Mediterranean Sea, between Algeria and Mauritania
Map references
Africa
Area
total: 716,550 sq km
land: 716,300 sq km
water: 250 sq km
land: 716,300 sq km
water: 250 sq km
Area - comparative
slightly larger than twice the size of California
Land boundaries
total: 3,523.5 km
border countries: Algeria 1,941 km; Mauritania 1,564 km; Spain (Ceuta) 8 km and Spain (Melilla) 10.5 km
note: note: an additional 75-meter border segment exists between Morocco and the Spanish exclave of Penon de Velez de la Gomera
border countries: Algeria 1,941 km; Mauritania 1,564 km; Spain (Ceuta) 8 km and Spain (Melilla) 10.5 km
note: note: an additional 75-meter border segment exists between Morocco and the Spanish exclave of Penon de Velez de la Gomera
Coastline
2,945 km
Maritime claims
territorial sea: 12 nm
contiguous zone: 24 nm
exclusive economic zone: 200 nm
continental shelf: 200-m depth or to the depth of exploitation
contiguous zone: 24 nm
exclusive economic zone: 200 nm
continental shelf: 200-m depth or to the depth of exploitation
Climate
Mediterranean in the north, becoming more extreme in the interior; in the south, hot, dry desert; rain is rare; cold offshore air currents produce fog and heavy dew
note: note: data does not include former Western Sahara
note: note: data does not include former Western Sahara
Terrain
mountainous northern coast (Rif Mountains) and interior (Atlas Mountains) bordered by large plateaus with intermontane valleys, and fertile coastal plains; the south is mostly low, flat desert with large areas of rocky or sandy surfaces
Elevation
highest point: Jebel Toubkal 4,165 m
lowest point: Sebkha Tah -59 m
mean elevation: 909 m
lowest point: Sebkha Tah -59 m
mean elevation: 909 m
Natural resources
phosphates, iron ore, manganese, lead, zinc, fish, salt
Land use
agricultural land: 66.7% (2023 est.)
agricultural land: arable land: arable land: 15.4% (2023 est.)
agricultural land: permanent crops: permanent crops: 4.3% (2023 est.)
agricultural land: permanent pasture: permanent pasture: 47.1% (2023 est.)
forest: 12.8% (2023 est.)
other: 20.3% (2023 est.)
note: note: does not include the area of the former Western Sahara, which is almost exclusively desert
Reference: 2023agricultural land: arable land: arable land: 15.4% (2023 est.)
agricultural land: permanent crops: permanent crops: 4.3% (2023 est.)
agricultural land: permanent pasture: permanent pasture: 47.1% (2023 est.)
forest: 12.8% (2023 est.)
other: 20.3% (2023 est.)
note: note: does not include the area of the former Western Sahara, which is almost exclusively desert
Irrigated land
17,645 sq km (2019)
Reference: 2019Major rivers (by length in km)
Draa - 1,100 km
Population distribution
the highest population density is found along the Atlantic and Mediterranean coasts; a number of densely populated agglomerations are scattered through the Atlas Mountains, as shown in this population distribution map
Natural hazards
in the north, the mountains are geologically unstable and subject to earthquakes; periodic droughts; windstorms; flash floods; landslides; in the south, a hot, dry, dust/sand-laden sirocco wind can occur during winter and spring; widespread harmattan haze exists 60% of time, often severely restricting visibility
Geography - note
strategic location along Strait of Gibraltar; the only African nation to have both Atlantic and Mediterranean coastlines; the waters off the Atlantic coast are particularly rich fishing areas
Population & Society
Nationality
noun: Moroccan(s)
adjective: Moroccan
adjective: Moroccan
Ethnic groups
Arab-Amazigh 99%, other 1%
note: note: does not include data from the former Western Sahara
note: note: does not include data from the former Western Sahara
Languages
Languages: Arabic (official), Tamazight languages (Tamazight (official), Tachelhit, Tarifit), French (often the language of business, government, and diplomacy)
major-language sample(s): كتاب ديال لحقائق متاع العالم، احسن مصدر متاع المعلومات الأساسية (Arabic)
The World Factbook, the indispensable source for basic information.
note: note: the proportion of Tamazight speakers is disputed
major-language sample(s): كتاب ديال لحقائق متاع العالم، احسن مصدر متاع المعلومات الأساسية (Arabic)
The World Factbook, the indispensable source for basic information.
note: note: the proportion of Tamazight speakers is disputed
Religions
Muslim 99% (official; virtually all Sunni,
note: note: does not include data from the former Western Sahara
note: note: does not include data from the former Western Sahara
Age structure
0-14 years: 25.7% (male 4,898,154/female 4,701,786)
15-64 years: 65.9% (male 12,236,752/female 12,410,567)
65 years and over: 8.4% (2024 est.) (male 1,529,357/female 1,610,969)
Reference: 202415-64 years: 65.9% (male 12,236,752/female 12,410,567)
65 years and over: 8.4% (2024 est.) (male 1,529,357/female 1,610,969)
Dependency ratios
total dependency ratio: 51.7 (2024 est.)
youth dependency ratio: 38.9 (2024 est.)
elderly dependency ratio: 12.7 (2024 est.)
potential support ratio: 7.8 (2024 est.)
Reference: 2024youth dependency ratio: 38.9 (2024 est.)
elderly dependency ratio: 12.7 (2024 est.)
potential support ratio: 7.8 (2024 est.)
Median age
total: 30.6 years (2024 est.)
male: 30.1 years
female: 31 years
Reference: 2024male: 30.1 years
female: 31 years
Population growth rate
0.84% (2024 est.)
Reference: 2024Birth rate
16.8 births/1,000 population (2024 est.)
Reference: 2024Death rate
6.6 deaths/1,000 population (2024 est.)
Reference: 2024Population distribution
the highest population density is found along the Atlantic and Mediterranean coasts; a number of densely populated agglomerations are scattered through the Atlas Mountains, as shown in this population distribution map
Major urban areas - population
3.893 million Casablanca, 1.959 million RABAT (capital), 1.290 million Fes, 1.314 million Tangier, 1.050 million Marrakech, 979,000 Agadir (2023)
Reference: 2023Sex ratio
at birth: 1.05 male(s)/female
0-14 years: 1.04 male(s)/female
15-64 years: 0.99 male(s)/female
65 years and over: 0.95 male(s)/female
total population: 1 male(s)/female (2024 est.)
Reference: 20240-14 years: 1.04 male(s)/female
15-64 years: 0.99 male(s)/female
65 years and over: 0.95 male(s)/female
total population: 1 male(s)/female (2024 est.)
Maternal mortality ratio
70 deaths/100,000 live births (2023 est.)
Reference: 2023Gross reproduction rate
1.1 (2024 est.)
Reference: 2024Drinking water source
improved: urban: urban: 98.8% of population (2022 est.)
improved: rural: rural: 65.6% of population (2022 est.)
improved: total: total: 87% of population (2022 est.)
unimproved: urban: urban: 1.2% of population (2022 est.)
unimproved: rural: rural: 34.4% of population (2022 est.)
unimproved: total: total: 13% of population (2022 est.)
Reference: 2022improved: rural: rural: 65.6% of population (2022 est.)
improved: total: total: 87% of population (2022 est.)
unimproved: urban: urban: 1.2% of population (2022 est.)
unimproved: rural: rural: 34.4% of population (2022 est.)
unimproved: total: total: 13% of population (2022 est.)
Health expenditure
Health expenditure (as % of GDP): 5.7% of GDP (2021)
Health expenditure (as % of national budget): 6.8% of national budget (2022 est.)
Reference: 2022, 2021Health expenditure (as % of national budget): 6.8% of national budget (2022 est.)
Physician density
0.74 physicians/1,000 population (2021)
Reference: 2021Hospital bed density
0.7 beds/1,000 population (2020 est.)
note: note: does not include data from the former Western Sahara
Reference: 2020note: note: does not include data from the former Western Sahara
Sanitation facility access
improved: urban: urban: 98.2% of population (2022 est.)
improved: rural: rural: 72.4% of population (2022 est.)
improved: total: total: 89.1% of population (2022 est.)
unimproved: urban: urban: 1.8% of population (2022 est.)
unimproved: rural: rural: 27.6% of population (2022 est.)
unimproved: total: total: 10.9% of population (2022 est.)
Reference: 2022improved: rural: rural: 72.4% of population (2022 est.)
improved: total: total: 89.1% of population (2022 est.)
unimproved: urban: urban: 1.8% of population (2022 est.)
unimproved: rural: rural: 27.6% of population (2022 est.)
unimproved: total: total: 10.9% of population (2022 est.)
Obesity - adult prevalence rate
26.1% (2016)
Reference: 2016Alcohol consumption per capita
total: 0.51 liters of pure alcohol (2019 est.)
beer: 0.18 liters of pure alcohol (2019 est.)
wine: 0.24 liters of pure alcohol (2019 est.)
spirits: 0.09 liters of pure alcohol (2019 est.)
other alcohols: 0 liters of pure alcohol (2019 est.)
Reference: 2019beer: 0.18 liters of pure alcohol (2019 est.)
wine: 0.24 liters of pure alcohol (2019 est.)
spirits: 0.09 liters of pure alcohol (2019 est.)
other alcohols: 0 liters of pure alcohol (2019 est.)
Tobacco use
total: 12.3% (2025 est.)
male: 23.7% (2025 est.)
female: 0.9% (2025 est.)
male: 23.7% (2025 est.)
female: 0.9% (2025 est.)
Children under the age of 5 years underweight
3% (2019 est.)
Reference: 2019Currently married women (ages 15-49)
58.8% (2023 est.)
Reference: 2023Child marriage
women married by age 15: 0.5% (2018)
women married by age 18: 13.7% (2018)
Reference: 2018women married by age 18: 13.7% (2018)
School life expectancy (primary to tertiary education)
total: 15 years (2023 est.)
male: 15 years (2023 est.)
female: 15 years (2023 est.)
Reference: 2023male: 15 years (2023 est.)
female: 15 years (2023 est.)
Migration & Displacement
Immigrant/emigrant stock measures the number of international migrants resident in, or originating from, the country; it is not the same as annual immigration/emigration flows.
Refugees and internally displaced persons
refugees: 18,848 (2024 est.)
IDPs: 256 (2024 est.)
Reference: 2024IDPs: 256 (2024 est.)
Government & Politics
| Office | Holder | Affiliation | From | Status | Evidence |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Head of government | Aziz Akhannouch | — | 2021-10-07 | Current | Reported |
| Head of state | Mohammed VI of Morocco | — | 1999-07-23 | Current | Reported |
Country name
conventional long form: Kingdom of Morocco
conventional short form: Morocco
local long form: Al Mamlakah al Maghribiyah
local short form: Al Maghrib
former: French Protectorate in Morocco, Spanish Protectorate in Morocco, Ifni, Spanish Sahara, Western Sahara
etymology: the English name of Morocco derives from, respectively, the Spanish and Portuguese names Marruecos and Marrocos, which stem from Marrakesh, the Latin name for the former capital of ancient Morocco; the Arabic name, Al Maghrib, translates as "The West"
conventional short form: Morocco
local long form: Al Mamlakah al Maghribiyah
local short form: Al Maghrib
former: French Protectorate in Morocco, Spanish Protectorate in Morocco, Ifni, Spanish Sahara, Western Sahara
etymology: the English name of Morocco derives from, respectively, the Spanish and Portuguese names Marruecos and Marrocos, which stem from Marrakesh, the Latin name for the former capital of ancient Morocco; the Arabic name, Al Maghrib, translates as "The West"
Capital
name: Rabat
geographic coordinates: 34 01 N, 6 49 W
time difference: UTC+1 (6 hours ahead of Washington, DC, during Standard Time)
etymology: derives from the Arabic name Ribat el-Fath, from the words ribat (fortified monastery) and fath (conquest); the third Almohad sultan, Abu Yusuf Yaqub al-Manṣur, gave the name to a fort on the site in the 12th century
geographic coordinates: 34 01 N, 6 49 W
time difference: UTC+1 (6 hours ahead of Washington, DC, during Standard Time)
etymology: derives from the Arabic name Ribat el-Fath, from the words ribat (fortified monastery) and fath (conquest); the third Almohad sultan, Abu Yusuf Yaqub al-Manṣur, gave the name to a fort on the site in the 12th century
Administrative divisions
12 regions; Beni Mellal-Khenifra, Casablanca-Settat, Dakhla-Oued Ed-Dahab, Draa-Tafilalet, Fes-Meknes, Guelmim-Oued Noun, Laayoune-Sakia El Hamra, Marrakech-Safi, Oriental, Rabat-Sale-Kenitra, Souss-Massa, Tanger-Tetouan-Al Hoceima
note: note: effective 10 December 2020, the US government recognizes Morocco's sovereignty over the territory of former Western Sahara
Reference: 2020note: note: effective 10 December 2020, the US government recognizes Morocco's sovereignty over the territory of former Western Sahara
Legal system
mixed system of civil law based on French civil law and Islamic (sharia) law; Constitutional Court reviews legislative acts
Constitution
history: several previous; latest drafted 17 June 2011, approved by referendum 1 July 2011
amendment process: proposed by the king, by the prime minister, or by members in either chamber of Parliament; passage requires at least two-thirds majority vote by both chambers and approval in a referendum; the king can opt to submit self-initiated proposals directly to a referendum
Reference: 2011amendment process: proposed by the king, by the prime minister, or by members in either chamber of Parliament; passage requires at least two-thirds majority vote by both chambers and approval in a referendum; the king can opt to submit self-initiated proposals directly to a referendum
International law organization participation
has not submitted an ICJ jurisdiction declaration; non-party state to the ICCt
Citizenship
citizenship by birth: no
citizenship by descent only: the father must be a citizen of Morocco; if the father is unknown or stateless, the mother must be a citizen
dual citizenship recognized: yes
residency requirement for naturalization: 5 years
citizenship by descent only: the father must be a citizen of Morocco; if the father is unknown or stateless, the mother must be a citizen
dual citizenship recognized: yes
residency requirement for naturalization: 5 years
Suffrage
18 years of age; universal
Executive branch
chief of state: King MOHAMMED VI (since 30 July 1999)
head of government: Prime Minister Aziz AKHANNOUCH (since 7 October 2021)
cabinet: Council of Ministers chosen by the prime minister in consultation with Parliament and appointed by the monarch; the monarch chooses the ministers of Interior, Foreign Affairs, Islamic Affairs, and National Defense Administration
election/appointment process: the monarchy is hereditary; monarch appoints the prime minister from the majority party following legislative elections
Reference: 2021, 1999head of government: Prime Minister Aziz AKHANNOUCH (since 7 October 2021)
cabinet: Council of Ministers chosen by the prime minister in consultation with Parliament and appointed by the monarch; the monarch chooses the ministers of Interior, Foreign Affairs, Islamic Affairs, and National Defense Administration
election/appointment process: the monarchy is hereditary; monarch appoints the prime minister from the majority party following legislative elections
Legislative branch
legislature name: Parliament (Barlaman)
legislative structure: bicameral
legislative structure: bicameral
Legislative branch - lower chamber
chamber name: House of Representatives (Majliss-annouwab)
number of seats: 395 (all directly elected)
electoral system: proportional representation
scope of elections: full renewal
term in office: 5 years
most recent election date: 9/8/2021
parties elected and seats per party: National Rally of Independents (RNI) (102); Authenticity and Modernity Party (PAM) (87); Istiqlal Party (PI) (81); Socialist Union of Popular Forces (USFP) (34); Popular Movement (MP) (28); Progress and Socialism Party (PPS) (22); Other (41)
percentage of women in chamber: 24.3%
expected date of next election: September 2026
Reference: 2026, 2021number of seats: 395 (all directly elected)
electoral system: proportional representation
scope of elections: full renewal
term in office: 5 years
most recent election date: 9/8/2021
parties elected and seats per party: National Rally of Independents (RNI) (102); Authenticity and Modernity Party (PAM) (87); Istiqlal Party (PI) (81); Socialist Union of Popular Forces (USFP) (34); Popular Movement (MP) (28); Progress and Socialism Party (PPS) (22); Other (41)
percentage of women in chamber: 24.3%
expected date of next election: September 2026
Legislative branch - upper chamber
chamber name: House of Councillors (Majlis al-Mustacharin)
number of seats: 120 (all indirectly elected)
scope of elections: full renewal
term in office: 6 years
most recent election date: 10/5/2021
percentage of women in chamber: 11.7%
expected date of next election: October 2027
Reference: 2027, 2021number of seats: 120 (all indirectly elected)
scope of elections: full renewal
term in office: 6 years
most recent election date: 10/5/2021
percentage of women in chamber: 11.7%
expected date of next election: October 2027
Judicial branch
highest court(s): Supreme Court or Court of Cassation (consists of 5-judge panels organized into civil, family matters, commercial, administrative, social, and criminal sections); Constitutional Court (consists of 12 members)
judge selection and term of office: Supreme Court judges appointed by the Superior Council of Judicial Power, a 20-member body presided over by the monarch, which includes the Supreme Court president, the prosecutor general, representatives of the appeals and first instance courts (among them 1 woman magistrate), the president of the National Council for Human Rights (CNDH), and 5 "notable persons" appointed by the monarch; judges appointed for life; Constitutional Court members - 6 designated by the monarch and 6 elected by Parliament; court president appointed by the monarch from among the court members; members serve 9-year nonrenewable terms
subordinate courts: courts of appeal; High Court of Justice; administrative and commercial courts; regional and Sadad courts (for religious, civil and administrative, and penal adjudication); first instance courts
judge selection and term of office: Supreme Court judges appointed by the Superior Council of Judicial Power, a 20-member body presided over by the monarch, which includes the Supreme Court president, the prosecutor general, representatives of the appeals and first instance courts (among them 1 woman magistrate), the president of the National Council for Human Rights (CNDH), and 5 "notable persons" appointed by the monarch; judges appointed for life; Constitutional Court members - 6 designated by the monarch and 6 elected by Parliament; court president appointed by the monarch from among the court members; members serve 9-year nonrenewable terms
subordinate courts: courts of appeal; High Court of Justice; administrative and commercial courts; regional and Sadad courts (for religious, civil and administrative, and penal adjudication); first instance courts
Political parties
Action Party or PA
Amal (hope) Party
An-Nahj Ad-Dimocrati or An-Nahj or Democratic Way
Authenticity and Modernity Party or PAM
Constitutional Union Party or UC
Democratic and Social Movement or MDS
Democratic Forces Front or FFD
Environment and Sustainable Development Party or PEDD
Federation of the Democratic Left or FGD
Green Left Party or PGV
Istiqlal (Independence) Party or PI
Moroccan Liberal Party or PML
Moroccan Union for Democracy or UMD
National Democratic Party
National Rally of Independents or RNI
Neo-Democrats Party
Party of Development Reform or PRD
Party of Justice and Development or PJD
Party of Liberty and Social Justice or PLJS
Party of Progress and Socialism or PPS
Popular Movement or MP
Renaissance and Virtue Party or PRV
Renaissance Party
Renewal and Equity Party or PRE
Shoura (consultation) and Istiqlal Party
Socialist Union of Popular Forces or USFP
Unified Socialist Party or GSU
Unity and Democracy Party
Amal (hope) Party
An-Nahj Ad-Dimocrati or An-Nahj or Democratic Way
Authenticity and Modernity Party or PAM
Constitutional Union Party or UC
Democratic and Social Movement or MDS
Democratic Forces Front or FFD
Environment and Sustainable Development Party or PEDD
Federation of the Democratic Left or FGD
Green Left Party or PGV
Istiqlal (Independence) Party or PI
Moroccan Liberal Party or PML
Moroccan Union for Democracy or UMD
National Democratic Party
National Rally of Independents or RNI
Neo-Democrats Party
Party of Development Reform or PRD
Party of Justice and Development or PJD
Party of Liberty and Social Justice or PLJS
Party of Progress and Socialism or PPS
Popular Movement or MP
Renaissance and Virtue Party or PRV
Renaissance Party
Renewal and Equity Party or PRE
Shoura (consultation) and Istiqlal Party
Socialist Union of Popular Forces or USFP
Unified Socialist Party or GSU
Unity and Democracy Party
Diplomatic representation in the US
chief of mission: Ambassador Youssef AMRANI (since 27 February 2024)
chancery: 3508 International Drive NW, Washington, DC 20008
telephone: [1] (202) 462-7979
FAX: [1] (202) 265-0161
email address and website: washingtonembmorocco@maec.gov.ma
Embassy of the Kingdom of Morocco in the United States (diplomatie.ma)
consulate(s) general: New York
Reference: 2024chancery: 3508 International Drive NW, Washington, DC 20008
telephone: [1] (202) 462-7979
FAX: [1] (202) 265-0161
email address and website: washingtonembmorocco@maec.gov.ma
Embassy of the Kingdom of Morocco in the United States (diplomatie.ma)
consulate(s) general: New York
Diplomatic representation from the US
chief of mission: Ambassador-designate Richard Duke BUCHAN III; Chargé d'Affaires Ben ZIFF (since 28 August 2025)
embassy: Km 5.7 Avenue Mohammed VI, Souissi, Rabat 10170
mailing address: 9400 Rabat Place, Washington DC 20521-9400
telephone: [212] 0537-637-200
FAX: [212] 0537-637-201
email address and website: https://ma.usembassy.gov/
consulate(s) general: Casablanca
embassy: Km 5.7 Avenue Mohammed VI, Souissi, Rabat 10170
mailing address: 9400 Rabat Place, Washington DC 20521-9400
telephone: [212] 0537-637-200
FAX: [212] 0537-637-201
email address and website: https://ma.usembassy.gov/
consulate(s) general: Casablanca
International organization participation
ABEDA, AfDB, AFESD, AIIB, AMF, AMU, AU, CAEU, CD, EBRD, FAO, G-11, G-77, IAEA, IBRD, ICAO, ICC (national committees), ICRM, IDA, IDB, IFAD, IFC, IFRCS, IHO, ILO, IMF, IMO, IMSO, Interpol, IOC, IOM, IPU, ISO, ITSO, ITU, ITUC (NGOs), LAS, MIGA, MONUSCO, NAM, OAS (observer), OIC, OIF, OPCW, OSCE (partner), Pacific Alliance (observer), Paris Club (associate), PCA, SICA (observer), UN, UNCTAD, UNESCO, UNHCR, UNIDO, UNOCI, UNOOSA, UNSC (temporary), UNWTO, UPU, WCO, WHO, WIPO, WMO, WTO
Independence
2 March 1956 (from France)
Reference: 1956National holiday
Throne Day (accession of King MOHAMMED VI to the throne), 30 July (1999)
Reference: 1999Flag
description: red with a green pentacle (five-pointed linear star) known as Sulayman's (Solomon's) seal in the center of the flag
meaning: red and green are traditional colors in Arab flags, although the use of red is more commonly associated with the Arab states of the Persian Gulf; the pentacle represents the five pillars of Islam and the association between God and the nation
history: the design dates to 1912
Reference: 1912meaning: red and green are traditional colors in Arab flags, although the use of red is more commonly associated with the Arab states of the Persian Gulf; the pentacle represents the five pillars of Islam and the association between God and the nation
history: the design dates to 1912
National symbol(s)
pentacle symbol, lion
National color(s)
red, green
National anthem(s)
title: "Hymne Cherifien" (Hymn of the Sharif)
lyrics/music: Ali Squalli HOUSSAINI/Leo MORGAN
history: music adopted 1956, lyrics adopted 1970
Reference: 1970, 1956lyrics/music: Ali Squalli HOUSSAINI/Leo MORGAN
history: music adopted 1956, lyrics adopted 1970
National heritage
total World Heritage Sites: 9 (all cultural)
selected World Heritage Site locales: Medina of Fez; Medina of Marrakesh; Ksar of Ait-Ben-Haddou; Historic City of Meknes; Archaeological Site of Volubilis; Medina of Tétouan (formerly known as Titawin); Medina of Essaouira (formerly Mogador); Portuguese City of Mazagan (El Jadida); Historic and Modern Rabat
selected World Heritage Site locales: Medina of Fez; Medina of Marrakesh; Ksar of Ait-Ben-Haddou; Historic City of Meknes; Archaeological Site of Volubilis; Medina of Tétouan (formerly known as Titawin); Medina of Essaouira (formerly Mogador); Portuguese City of Mazagan (El Jadida); Historic and Modern Rabat
Government & Official Links
| Institution | Official website | X / Twitter | Verification |
|---|---|---|---|
| Morocco official website | Official website | — | Reported · source Checked September 20, 2026 |
Institutional accounts only; personal accounts of political office-holders are excluded.
Legislature & Elections
Legislature
| Name | Chamber | Seats | Electoral system |
|---|---|---|---|
| Parliament of Morocco | — | — | — |
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)
Real GDP (purchasing power parity) 2024: $350.594 billion (2024 est.)
Real GDP (purchasing power parity) 2023: $339.603 billion (2023 est.)
Real GDP (purchasing power parity) 2022: $328.425 billion (2022 est.)
note: note: data in 2021 dollars
Reference: 2024, 2023, 2022, 2021Real GDP (purchasing power parity) 2023: $339.603 billion (2023 est.)
Real GDP (purchasing power parity) 2022: $328.425 billion (2022 est.)
note: note: data in 2021 dollars
Real GDP per capita
Real GDP per capita 2024: $9,100 (2024 est.)
Real GDP per capita 2023: $8,900 (2023 est.)
Real GDP per capita 2022: $8,700 (2022 est.)
note: note: data in 2021 dollars
Reference: 2024, 2023, 2022, 2021Real GDP per capita 2023: $8,900 (2023 est.)
Real GDP per capita 2022: $8,700 (2022 est.)
note: note: data in 2021 dollars
GDP - composition, by sector of origin
agriculture: 10.1% (2024 est.)
industry: 24.1% (2024 est.)
services: 54.1% (2024 est.)
note: note: figures may not total 100% due to non-allocated consumption not captured in sector-reported data
Reference: 2024industry: 24.1% (2024 est.)
services: 54.1% (2024 est.)
note: note: figures may not total 100% due to non-allocated consumption not captured in sector-reported data
GDP - composition, by end use
household consumption: 61.3% (2024 est.)
government consumption: 18% (2024 est.)
investment in fixed capital: 26.1% (2024 est.)
investment in inventories: 3.8% (2024 est.)
exports of goods and services: 43.3% (2024 est.)
imports of goods and services: -52.5% (2024 est.)
note: note: figures may not total 100% due to rounding or gaps in data collection
Reference: 2024government consumption: 18% (2024 est.)
investment in fixed capital: 26.1% (2024 est.)
investment in inventories: 3.8% (2024 est.)
exports of goods and services: 43.3% (2024 est.)
imports of goods and services: -52.5% (2024 est.)
note: note: figures may not total 100% due to rounding or gaps in data collection
Agricultural products
wheat, milk, potatoes, sugar beets, tomatoes, barley, olives, apples, tangerines/mandarins, onions (2023)
note: note: top ten agricultural products based on tonnage
Reference: 2023note: note: top ten agricultural products based on tonnage
Industries
automotive parts, phosphate mining and processing, aerospace, food processing, leather goods, textiles, construction, energy, tourism
Industrial production growth rate
5% (2024 est.)
note: note: annual % change in industrial value added based on constant local currency
Reference: 2024note: note: annual % change in industrial value added based on constant local currency
Labor force
12.475 million (2024 est.)
note: note: number of people ages 15 or older who are employed or seeking work
Reference: 2024note: note: number of people ages 15 or older who are employed or seeking work
Youth unemployment rate (ages 15-24)
total: 22.1% (2024 est.)
male: 22% (2024 est.)
female: 22.4% (2024 est.)
note: note: % of labor force ages 15-24 seeking employment
Reference: 2024male: 22% (2024 est.)
female: 22.4% (2024 est.)
note: note: % of labor force ages 15-24 seeking employment
Population below poverty line
3.9% (2022 est.)
note: note: % of population with income below national poverty line
Reference: 2022note: note: % of population with income below national poverty line
Average household expenditures
on food: 34.5% of household expenditures (2023 est.)
on alcohol and tobacco: 2.1% of household expenditures (2023 est.)
Reference: 2023on alcohol and tobacco: 2.1% of household expenditures (2023 est.)
Remittances
Remittances 2023: 8.1% of GDP (2023 est.)
Remittances 2022: 8.5% of GDP (2022 est.)
Remittances 2021: 7.7% of GDP (2021 est.)
note: note: personal transfers and compensation between resident and non-resident individuals/households/entities
Reference: 2023, 2022, 2021Remittances 2022: 8.5% of GDP (2022 est.)
Remittances 2021: 7.7% of GDP (2021 est.)
note: note: personal transfers and compensation between resident and non-resident individuals/households/entities
Budget
revenues: $38.458 billion (2023 est.)
expenditures: $44.819 billion (2023 est.)
note: note: central government revenues and expenses (excluding grants/extrabudgetary units/social security funds) converted to US dollars at average official exchange rate for year indicated
Reference: 2023expenditures: $44.819 billion (2023 est.)
note: note: central government revenues and expenses (excluding grants/extrabudgetary units/social security funds) converted to US dollars at average official exchange rate for year indicated
Public debt
Public debt 2016: 64.9% of GDP (2016 est.)
Reference: 2016Taxes and other revenues
21% (of GDP) (2023 est.)
note: note: central government tax revenue as a % of GDP
Reference: 2023note: note: central government tax revenue as a % of GDP
Current account balance
Current account balance 2023: -$891.222 million (2023 est.)
Current account balance 2022: -$4.8 billion (2022 est.)
Current account balance 2021: -$3.349 billion (2021 est.)
note: note: balance of payments - net trade and primary/secondary income in current dollars
Reference: 2023, 2022, 2021Current account balance 2022: -$4.8 billion (2022 est.)
Current account balance 2021: -$3.349 billion (2021 est.)
note: note: balance of payments - net trade and primary/secondary income in current dollars
Exports
Exports 2023: $61.746 billion (2023 est.)
Exports 2022: $58.575 billion (2022 est.)
Exports 2021: $47.09 billion (2021 est.)
note: note: balance of payments - exports of goods and services in current dollars
Reference: 2023, 2022, 2021Exports 2022: $58.575 billion (2022 est.)
Exports 2021: $47.09 billion (2021 est.)
note: note: balance of payments - exports of goods and services in current dollars
Exports - partners
Spain 20%, France 17%, Germany 6%, UK 5%, Italy 4% (2023)
note: note: top five export partners based on percentage share of exports
Reference: 2023note: note: top five export partners based on percentage share of exports
Exports - commodities
fertilizers, cars, garments, insulated wire, tomatoes (2023)
note: note: top five export commodities based on value in dollars
Reference: 2023note: note: top five export commodities based on value in dollars
Imports
Imports 2023: $73.759 billion (2023 est.)
Imports 2022: $73.81 billion (2022 est.)
Imports 2021: $60.215 billion (2021 est.)
note: note: balance of payments - imports of goods and services in current dollars
Reference: 2023, 2022, 2021Imports 2022: $73.81 billion (2022 est.)
Imports 2021: $60.215 billion (2021 est.)
note: note: balance of payments - imports of goods and services in current dollars
Imports - partners
Spain 16%, China 11%, France 10%, USA 9%, Turkey 5% (2023)
note: note: top five import partners based on percentage share of imports
Reference: 2023note: note: top five import partners based on percentage share of imports
Imports - commodities
refined petroleum, cars, vehicle parts/accessories, natural gas, coal (2023)
note: note: top five import commodities based on value in dollars
Reference: 2023note: note: top five import commodities based on value in dollars
Reserves of foreign exchange and gold
Reserves of foreign exchange and gold 2024: $37.134 billion (2024 est.)
Reserves of foreign exchange and gold 2023: $36.328 billion (2023 est.)
Reserves of foreign exchange and gold 2022: $32.314 billion (2022 est.)
note: note: holdings of gold (year-end prices)/foreign exchange/special drawing rights in current dollars
Reference: 2024, 2023, 2022Reserves of foreign exchange and gold 2023: $36.328 billion (2023 est.)
Reserves of foreign exchange and gold 2022: $32.314 billion (2022 est.)
note: note: holdings of gold (year-end prices)/foreign exchange/special drawing rights in current dollars
Debt - external
Debt - external 2023: $42.262 billion (2023 est.)
note: note: present value of external debt in current US dollars
Reference: 2023note: note: present value of external debt in current US dollars
Exchange rates
Currency: Moroccan dirhams (MAD) per US dollar -
Exchange rates 2024: 9.942 (2024 est.)
Exchange rates 2023: 10.131 (2023 est.)
Exchange rates 2022: 10.161 (2022 est.)
Exchange rates 2021: 8.988 (2021 est.)
Exchange rates 2020: 9.497 (2020 est.)
Reference: 2024, 2023, 2022, 2021Exchange rates 2024: 9.942 (2024 est.)
Exchange rates 2023: 10.131 (2023 est.)
Exchange rates 2022: 10.161 (2022 est.)
Exchange rates 2021: 8.988 (2021 est.)
Exchange rates 2020: 9.497 (2020 est.)
Trade
Current account balance
Current account balance 2023: -$891.222 million (2023 est.)
Current account balance 2022: -$4.8 billion (2022 est.)
Current account balance 2021: -$3.349 billion (2021 est.)
note: note: balance of payments - net trade and primary/secondary income in current dollars
Reference: 2023, 2022, 2021Current account balance 2022: -$4.8 billion (2022 est.)
Current account balance 2021: -$3.349 billion (2021 est.)
note: note: balance of payments - net trade and primary/secondary income in current dollars
Exports
Exports 2023: $61.746 billion (2023 est.)
Exports 2022: $58.575 billion (2022 est.)
Exports 2021: $47.09 billion (2021 est.)
note: note: balance of payments - exports of goods and services in current dollars
Reference: 2023, 2022, 2021Exports 2022: $58.575 billion (2022 est.)
Exports 2021: $47.09 billion (2021 est.)
note: note: balance of payments - exports of goods and services in current dollars
Exports - partners
Spain 20%, France 17%, Germany 6%, UK 5%, Italy 4% (2023)
note: note: top five export partners based on percentage share of exports
Reference: 2023note: note: top five export partners based on percentage share of exports
Exports - commodities
fertilizers, cars, garments, insulated wire, tomatoes (2023)
note: note: top five export commodities based on value in dollars
Reference: 2023note: note: top five export commodities based on value in dollars
Imports
Imports 2023: $73.759 billion (2023 est.)
Imports 2022: $73.81 billion (2022 est.)
Imports 2021: $60.215 billion (2021 est.)
note: note: balance of payments - imports of goods and services in current dollars
Reference: 2023, 2022, 2021Imports 2022: $73.81 billion (2022 est.)
Imports 2021: $60.215 billion (2021 est.)
note: note: balance of payments - imports of goods and services in current dollars
Imports - partners
Spain 16%, China 11%, France 10%, USA 9%, Turkey 5% (2023)
note: note: top five import partners based on percentage share of imports
Reference: 2023note: note: top five import partners based on percentage share of imports
Imports - commodities
refined petroleum, cars, vehicle parts/accessories, natural gas, coal (2023)
note: note: top five import commodities based on value in dollars
Reference: 2023note: note: top five import commodities based on value in dollars
Energy & Resources
Electricity
installed generating capacity: 14.615 million kW (2023 est.)
consumption: 36.379 billion kWh (2023 est.)
exports: 462 million kWh (2023 est.)
imports: 2.311 billion kWh (2023 est.)
transmission/distribution losses: 7.781 billion kWh (2023 est.)
Reference: 2023consumption: 36.379 billion kWh (2023 est.)
exports: 462 million kWh (2023 est.)
imports: 2.311 billion kWh (2023 est.)
transmission/distribution losses: 7.781 billion kWh (2023 est.)
Electricity generation sources
fossil fuels: 78.6% of total installed capacity (2023 est.)
solar: 5% of total installed capacity (2023 est.)
wind: 15.5% of total installed capacity (2023 est.)
hydroelectricity: 0.9% of total installed capacity (2023 est.)
biomass and waste: 0.1% of total installed capacity (2023 est.)
Reference: 2023solar: 5% of total installed capacity (2023 est.)
wind: 15.5% of total installed capacity (2023 est.)
hydroelectricity: 0.9% of total installed capacity (2023 est.)
biomass and waste: 0.1% of total installed capacity (2023 est.)
Coal
consumption: 10.304 million metric tons (2023 est.)
exports: 25 metric tons (2023 est.)
imports: 10.344 million metric tons (2023 est.)
proven reserves: 96 million metric tons (2023 est.)
Reference: 2023exports: 25 metric tons (2023 est.)
imports: 10.344 million metric tons (2023 est.)
proven reserves: 96 million metric tons (2023 est.)
Petroleum
total petroleum production: 25 bbl/day (2023 est.)
refined petroleum consumption: 296,000 bbl/day (2023 est.)
crude oil estimated reserves: 684,000 barrels (2021 est.)
Reference: 2023, 2021refined petroleum consumption: 296,000 bbl/day (2023 est.)
crude oil estimated reserves: 684,000 barrels (2021 est.)
Natural gas
production: 55.473 million cubic meters (2023 est.)
consumption: 912.277 million cubic meters (2023 est.)
imports: 861.38 million cubic meters (2023 est.)
proven reserves: 1.444 billion cubic meters (2021 est.)
Reference: 2023, 2021consumption: 912.277 million cubic meters (2023 est.)
imports: 861.38 million cubic meters (2023 est.)
proven reserves: 1.444 billion cubic meters (2021 est.)
Energy consumption per capita
Total energy consumption per capita 2023: 23.52 million Btu/person (2023 est.)
Reference: 2023Infrastructure
Telephones - fixed lines
total subscriptions: 2.874 million (2023 est.)
subscriptions per 100 inhabitants: 8 (2023 est.)
Reference: 2023subscriptions per 100 inhabitants: 8 (2023 est.)
Health
Maternal mortality ratio
70 deaths/100,000 live births (2023 est.)
Reference: 2023Health expenditure
Health expenditure (as % of GDP): 5.7% of GDP (2021)
Health expenditure (as % of national budget): 6.8% of national budget (2022 est.)
Reference: 2022, 2021Health expenditure (as % of national budget): 6.8% of national budget (2022 est.)
Physician density
0.74 physicians/1,000 population (2021)
Reference: 2021Hospital bed density
0.7 beds/1,000 population (2020 est.)
note: note: does not include data from the former Western Sahara
Reference: 2020note: note: does not include data from the former Western Sahara
Obesity - adult prevalence rate
26.1% (2016)
Reference: 2016Tobacco use
total: 12.3% (2025 est.)
male: 23.7% (2025 est.)
female: 0.9% (2025 est.)
male: 23.7% (2025 est.)
female: 0.9% (2025 est.)
Education
School life expectancy (primary to tertiary education)
total: 15 years (2023 est.)
male: 15 years (2023 est.)
female: 15 years (2023 est.)
Reference: 2023male: 15 years (2023 est.)
female: 15 years (2023 est.)
Rights, Freedoms & Society
Press & Media Freedom
V-Dem expert-coded/modelled source measures. Knelstrom does not create a press-freedom ranking or composite score.
LGBTQ+ Rights & Law
Concrete legal-status fields only; Knelstrom does not generate an LGBTQ rights score or country ranking.
Source: Wikipedia — LGBTQ rights by country or territory (CC BY-SA 4.0). Community-edited legal-status summary; retrieved by Knelstrom and not legal advice.
Crime & Justice
Legal system
mixed system of civil law based on French civil law and Islamic (sharia) law; Constitutional Court reviews legislative acts
Judicial branch
highest court(s): Supreme Court or Court of Cassation (consists of 5-judge panels organized into civil, family matters, commercial, administrative, social, and criminal sections); Constitutional Court (consists of 12 members)
judge selection and term of office: Supreme Court judges appointed by the Superior Council of Judicial Power, a 20-member body presided over by the monarch, which includes the Supreme Court president, the prosecutor general, representatives of the appeals and first instance courts (among them 1 woman magistrate), the president of the National Council for Human Rights (CNDH), and 5 "notable persons" appointed by the monarch; judges appointed for life; Constitutional Court members - 6 designated by the monarch and 6 elected by Parliament; court president appointed by the monarch from among the court members; members serve 9-year nonrenewable terms
subordinate courts: courts of appeal; High Court of Justice; administrative and commercial courts; regional and Sadad courts (for religious, civil and administrative, and penal adjudication); first instance courts
judge selection and term of office: Supreme Court judges appointed by the Superior Council of Judicial Power, a 20-member body presided over by the monarch, which includes the Supreme Court president, the prosecutor general, representatives of the appeals and first instance courts (among them 1 woman magistrate), the president of the National Council for Human Rights (CNDH), and 5 "notable persons" appointed by the monarch; judges appointed for life; Constitutional Court members - 6 designated by the monarch and 6 elected by Parliament; court president appointed by the monarch from among the court members; members serve 9-year nonrenewable terms
subordinate courts: courts of appeal; High Court of Justice; administrative and commercial courts; regional and Sadad courts (for religious, civil and administrative, and penal adjudication); first instance courts
Military & Security
Military and security forces
Royal Moroccan Armed Forces (FAR): Royal Moroccan Army (includes the Moroccan Royal Guard), Royal Moroccan Navy (includes Coast Guard, marines), Royal Moroccan Air Force, Moroccan Royal Guard, Royal Moroccan Gendarmerie
Ministry of Interior: General Directorate for National Security (DGSN; aka National Police), Auxiliary Forces (2025)
note: note 1: the Royal Guard is officially part of the Army, but is under the direct operational control of the Royal Military Household of His Majesty the King; it provides for the security and safety of the King and royal family; it was established in the 11th century and is considered one of the world's oldest active units still in military service
note 2: the DGSN manages internal law enforcement in cities; the Gendarmerie is responsible for law enforcement in rural regions and on national highways and has a counterterrorism role; the Auxiliary Forces provide support to the Gendarmerie and DGSN
Ministry of Interior: General Directorate for National Security (DGSN; aka National Police), Auxiliary Forces (2025)
note: note 1: the Royal Guard is officially part of the Army, but is under the direct operational control of the Royal Military Household of His Majesty the King; it provides for the security and safety of the King and royal family; it was established in the 11th century and is considered one of the world's oldest active units still in military service
note 2: the DGSN manages internal law enforcement in cities; the Gendarmerie is responsible for law enforcement in rural regions and on national highways and has a counterterrorism role; the Auxiliary Forces provide support to the Gendarmerie and DGSN
Military expenditures
Military Expenditures 2024: 4% of GDP (2024 est.)
Military Expenditures 2023: 4% of GDP (2023 est.)
Military Expenditures 2022: 4.5% of GDP (2022 est.)
Military Expenditures 2021: 4.5% of GDP (2021 est.)
Military Expenditures 2020: 4.5% of GDP (2020 est.)
Reference: 2024, 2023, 2022, 2021Military Expenditures 2023: 4% of GDP (2023 est.)
Military Expenditures 2022: 4.5% of GDP (2022 est.)
Military Expenditures 2021: 4.5% of GDP (2021 est.)
Military Expenditures 2020: 4.5% of GDP (2020 est.)
Military and security service personnel strengths
estimated 220,000 active Armed Forces (175,000 Army; 10,000 Navy; 15,000 Air Force, 20,000 Gendarmerie) (2025)
Military equipment inventories and acquisitions
the Moroccan military's inventory is comprised of mostly older French and US equipment, although in recent years it has embarked on a modernization program and received quantities of more modern equipment from a variety of countries, particularly France, Spain, and the US (2024)
Reference: 2024Military service age and obligation
19-25 years of age for 12-month compulsory and voluntary military service for men and women (conscription abolished 2006 and reintroduced in 2019) (2023)
Reference: 2023, 2019, 2006Military deployments
770 Central African Republic (MINUSCA); 930 Democratic Republic of the Congo (MONUSCO) (2024)
Reference: 2024Military - note
the Royal Armed Forces (FAR) are responsible for protecting Morocco’s national interests, sovereignty, and territorial integrity; key areas of concern for the FAR include international terrorism, maritime security, and regional challenges such as the Polisario Front in Western Sahara and Algeria; the Polisario Front (Popular Front for the Liberation of Saguia el Hamra and Rio de Oro), an organization that seeks the independence of Western Sahara, disputes Morocco’s claim of sovereignty over the territory; Moroccan and Polisario forces fought intermittently from 1975, when Spain relinquished colonial authority over the territory, until a 1991 cease-fire and the establishment of a UN peacekeeping mission; the Polisario withdrew from the cease-fire in November 2020, and since then there have been reports of low-intensity hostilities between Morocco and the Polisario Front across the 2,500-kilometer-long berm built in 1987 that separates the two sides; Algeria is seen as a regional rival and has openly backed the Polisario Front
the FAR participates in international peacekeeping operations, as well as both bilateral and multinational training exercises; it has relations with a variety of partners including the militaries of France, Qatar, Saudi Arabia, Spain, and the US, as well as NATO, the Arab League, and the African Union; Morocco has Major Non-NATO Ally (MNNA) status with the US, a designation under US law that provides foreign partners with certain benefits in the areas of defense trade and security cooperation
the FAR was created in May 1956; Moroccans were recruited for service in the Spahi and Tirailleur regiments of the French Army during the period of the French protectorate (1912-1956), and Moroccans fought under the French Army during both World Wars, as well as the First Indochina War (1946-1954); the Spanish Army recruited Moroccans from the Spanish Protectorate during both the Rif War (1921-26) and the Spanish Civil War (1936-39)
the UN Mission for the Referendum in Western Sahara (MINURSO) was established by Security Council resolution 690 in April 1991 in accordance with settlement proposals accepted in August 1988 by Morocco and the Polisario Front; MINURSO was unable to carry out all the original settlement proposals, but continues to monitor the cease-fire and reduce the threat of mines and unexploded ordnance, and has provided logistic support to the Office of the UN High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR) (2025)
Reference: 2025, 2020, 1991, 1988the FAR participates in international peacekeeping operations, as well as both bilateral and multinational training exercises; it has relations with a variety of partners including the militaries of France, Qatar, Saudi Arabia, Spain, and the US, as well as NATO, the Arab League, and the African Union; Morocco has Major Non-NATO Ally (MNNA) status with the US, a designation under US law that provides foreign partners with certain benefits in the areas of defense trade and security cooperation
the FAR was created in May 1956; Moroccans were recruited for service in the Spahi and Tirailleur regiments of the French Army during the period of the French protectorate (1912-1956), and Moroccans fought under the French Army during both World Wars, as well as the First Indochina War (1946-1954); the Spanish Army recruited Moroccans from the Spanish Protectorate during both the Rif War (1921-26) and the Spanish Civil War (1936-39)
the UN Mission for the Referendum in Western Sahara (MINURSO) was established by Security Council resolution 690 in April 1991 in accordance with settlement proposals accepted in August 1988 by Morocco and the Polisario Front; MINURSO was unable to carry out all the original settlement proposals, but continues to monitor the cease-fire and reduce the threat of mines and unexploded ordnance, and has provided logistic support to the Office of the UN High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR) (2025)
International Relations
International law organization participation
has not submitted an ICJ jurisdiction declaration; non-party state to the ICCt
Diplomatic representation in the US
chief of mission: Ambassador Youssef AMRANI (since 27 February 2024)
chancery: 3508 International Drive NW, Washington, DC 20008
telephone: [1] (202) 462-7979
FAX: [1] (202) 265-0161
email address and website: washingtonembmorocco@maec.gov.ma
Embassy of the Kingdom of Morocco in the United States (diplomatie.ma)
consulate(s) general: New York
Reference: 2024chancery: 3508 International Drive NW, Washington, DC 20008
telephone: [1] (202) 462-7979
FAX: [1] (202) 265-0161
email address and website: washingtonembmorocco@maec.gov.ma
Embassy of the Kingdom of Morocco in the United States (diplomatie.ma)
consulate(s) general: New York
Diplomatic representation from the US
chief of mission: Ambassador-designate Richard Duke BUCHAN III; Chargé d'Affaires Ben ZIFF (since 28 August 2025)
embassy: Km 5.7 Avenue Mohammed VI, Souissi, Rabat 10170
mailing address: 9400 Rabat Place, Washington DC 20521-9400
telephone: [212] 0537-637-200
FAX: [212] 0537-637-201
email address and website: https://ma.usembassy.gov/
consulate(s) general: Casablanca
embassy: Km 5.7 Avenue Mohammed VI, Souissi, Rabat 10170
mailing address: 9400 Rabat Place, Washington DC 20521-9400
telephone: [212] 0537-637-200
FAX: [212] 0537-637-201
email address and website: https://ma.usembassy.gov/
consulate(s) general: Casablanca
International organization participation
ABEDA, AfDB, AFESD, AIIB, AMF, AMU, AU, CAEU, CD, EBRD, FAO, G-11, G-77, IAEA, IBRD, ICAO, ICC (national committees), ICRM, IDA, IDB, IFAD, IFC, IFRCS, IHO, ILO, IMF, IMO, IMSO, Interpol, IOC, IOM, IPU, ISO, ITSO, ITU, ITUC (NGOs), LAS, MIGA, MONUSCO, NAM, OAS (observer), OIC, OIF, OPCW, OSCE (partner), Pacific Alliance (observer), Paris Club (associate), PCA, SICA (observer), UN, UNCTAD, UNESCO, UNHCR, UNIDO, UNOCI, UNOOSA, UNSC (temporary), UNWTO, UPU, WCO, WHO, WIPO, WMO, WTO
Treaties & Organisations
| Organisation | Status | Joined |
|---|---|---|
| African Union (AU) | member | — |
| Arab League (Arab League) | member | 1958-10-01 |
| United Nations (UN) | member | 1956-11-12 |
| World Trade Organization (WTO) | member | 1995-01-01 |
International law organization participation
has not submitted an ICJ jurisdiction declaration; non-party state to the ICCt
International organization participation
ABEDA, AfDB, AFESD, AIIB, AMF, AMU, AU, CAEU, CD, EBRD, FAO, G-11, G-77, IAEA, IBRD, ICAO, ICC (national committees), ICRM, IDA, IDB, IFAD, IFC, IFRCS, IHO, ILO, IMF, IMO, IMSO, Interpol, IOC, IOM, IPU, ISO, ITSO, ITU, ITUC (NGOs), LAS, MIGA, MONUSCO, NAM, OAS (observer), OIC, OIF, OPCW, OSCE (partner), Pacific Alliance (observer), Paris Club (associate), PCA, SICA (observer), UN, UNCTAD, UNESCO, UNHCR, UNIDO, UNOCI, UNOOSA, UNSC (temporary), UNWTO, UPU, WCO, WHO, WIPO, WMO, WTO
Conflict & Security
Refugees and internally displaced persons
refugees: 18,848 (2024 est.)
IDPs: 256 (2024 est.)
Reference: 2024IDPs: 256 (2024 est.)
Terrorist group(s)
Islamic State of Iraq and ash-Sham (ISIS)
note: note: details about the history, aims, leadership, organization, areas of operation, tactics, targets, weapons, size, and sources of support of the group(s) appear(s) in the Terrorism reference guide
note: note: details about the history, aims, leadership, organization, areas of operation, tactics, targets, weapons, size, and sources of support of the group(s) appear(s) in the Terrorism reference guide
Transportation & Logistics
Civil aircraft registration country code prefix
CN
Airports
48 (2025)
Heliports
17 (2025)
Railways
total: 2,067 km (2014)
standard gauge: 2,067 km (2014) 1.435-m gauge (1,022 km electrified)
Reference: 2014standard gauge: 2,067 km (2014) 1.435-m gauge (1,022 km electrified)
Merchant marine
total: 94 (2023)
by type: container ship 6, general cargo 5, oil tanker 2, other 81
Reference: 2023by type: container ship 6, general cargo 5, oil tanker 2, other 81
Ports
total ports: 12 (2024)
large: 3
medium: 1
small: 3
very small: 5
ports with oil terminals: 2
key ports: Agadir, Casablanca, Tanger, Tangier-Mediterranean
Reference: 2024large: 3
medium: 1
small: 3
very small: 5
ports with oil terminals: 2
key ports: Agadir, Casablanca, Tanger, Tangier-Mediterranean
Environment
Environmental issues
in the north: land degradation and desertification, with soil erosion from farming, overgrazing, and vegetation removal; water and soil pollution from industrial-waste dumping; in the south: desertification; overgrazing; sparse water
note: note: data does not include former Western Sahara
note: note: data does not include former Western Sahara
International environmental agreements
party to: Biodiversity, Climate Change, Climate Change-Kyoto Protocol, Climate Change-Paris Agreement, Comprehensive Nuclear Test Ban, Desertification, Endangered Species, Hazardous Wastes, Law of the Sea, Marine Dumping-London Convention, Marine Dumping-London Protocol, Nuclear Test Ban, Ozone Layer Protection, Ship Pollution, Wetlands, Whaling
signed, but not ratified: Environmental Modification
signed, but not ratified: Environmental Modification
Climate
Mediterranean in the north, becoming more extreme in the interior; in the south, hot, dry desert; rain is rare; cold offshore air currents produce fog and heavy dew
note: note: data does not include former Western Sahara
note: note: data does not include former Western Sahara
Land use
agricultural land: 66.7% (2023 est.)
agricultural land: arable land: arable land: 15.4% (2023 est.)
agricultural land: permanent crops: permanent crops: 4.3% (2023 est.)
agricultural land: permanent pasture: permanent pasture: 47.1% (2023 est.)
forest: 12.8% (2023 est.)
other: 20.3% (2023 est.)
note: note: does not include the area of the former Western Sahara, which is almost exclusively desert
Reference: 2023agricultural land: arable land: arable land: 15.4% (2023 est.)
agricultural land: permanent crops: permanent crops: 4.3% (2023 est.)
agricultural land: permanent pasture: permanent pasture: 47.1% (2023 est.)
forest: 12.8% (2023 est.)
other: 20.3% (2023 est.)
note: note: does not include the area of the former Western Sahara, which is almost exclusively desert
Urbanization
urban population: 65.1% of total population (2023)
rate of urbanization: 1.88% annual rate of change (2020-25 est.)
note: note: data does not include former Western Sahara
Reference: 2023, 2020rate of urbanization: 1.88% annual rate of change (2020-25 est.)
note: note: data does not include former Western Sahara
Carbon dioxide emissions
total emissions: 64.173 million metric tonnes of CO2 (2023 est.)
from coal and metallurgical coke: 23.024 million metric tonnes of CO2 (2023 est.)
from petroleum and other liquids: 39.329 million metric tonnes of CO2 (2023 est.)
from consumed natural gas: 1.82 million metric tonnes of CO2 (2023 est.)
Reference: 2023from coal and metallurgical coke: 23.024 million metric tonnes of CO2 (2023 est.)
from petroleum and other liquids: 39.329 million metric tonnes of CO2 (2023 est.)
from consumed natural gas: 1.82 million metric tonnes of CO2 (2023 est.)
Particulate matter emissions
13.2 micrograms per cubic meter (2019 est.)
Reference: 2019Methane emissions
energy: 36.6 kt (2022-2024 est.)
agriculture: 283.7 kt (2019-2021 est.)
waste: 377.5 kt (2019-2021 est.)
other: 4.5 kt (2019-2021 est.)
Reference: 2024, 2022, 2021, 2019agriculture: 283.7 kt (2019-2021 est.)
waste: 377.5 kt (2019-2021 est.)
other: 4.5 kt (2019-2021 est.)
Waste and recycling
municipal solid waste generated annually: 6.852 million tons (2024 est.)
percent of municipal solid waste recycled: 25.4% (2022 est.)
note: note: data does not include former Western Sahara
Reference: 2024, 2022percent of municipal solid waste recycled: 25.4% (2022 est.)
note: note: data does not include former Western Sahara
Total water withdrawal
municipal: 1.063 billion cubic meters (2022 est.)
industrial: 212 million cubic meters (2022 est.)
agricultural: 9.156 billion cubic meters (2022 est.)
note: note: data does not include former Western Sahara
Reference: 2022industrial: 212 million cubic meters (2022 est.)
agricultural: 9.156 billion cubic meters (2022 est.)
note: note: data does not include former Western Sahara
Total renewable water resources
29 billion cubic meters (2022 est.)
note: note: data does not include former Western Sahara
Reference: 2022note: note: data does not include former Western Sahara
Geoparks
total global geoparks and regional networks: 1
global geoparks and regional networks: M'Goun (2023)
Reference: 2023global geoparks and regional networks: M'Goun (2023)
Communications & Media
Telephones - fixed lines
total subscriptions: 2.874 million (2023 est.)
subscriptions per 100 inhabitants: 8 (2023 est.)
Reference: 2023subscriptions per 100 inhabitants: 8 (2023 est.)
Broadcast media
2 TV broadcast networks with state-run Radio-Television Marocaine (RTM) operating one network and the state partially owning the other; foreign TV is available via satellite dish; 3 radio broadcast networks, with RTM operating one; the state-owned network includes 10 regional radio channels in addition to its national service (2019)
Reference: 2019Internet country code
.ma
Historical Trends
Population
Source: World Bank WDI. Historical observations shown by reference period.
View Population data table
| Period | Value | Source |
|---|---|---|
| 2016 | 35,023,457 | world_bank_wdi |
| 2017 | 35,446,392 | world_bank_wdi |
| 2018 | 35,839,760 | world_bank_wdi |
| 2019 | 36,210,898 | world_bank_wdi |
| 2020 | 36,584,208 | world_bank_wdi |
| 2021 | 36,954,442 | world_bank_wdi |
| 2022 | 37,329,064 | world_bank_wdi |
| 2023 | 37,712,505 | world_bank_wdi |
| 2024 | 38,081,173 | world_bank_wdi |
| 2025 | 38,430,770 | world_bank_wdi |
GDP (current US$)
Source: World Bank WDI. Historical observations shown by reference period.
View GDP (current US$) data table
| Period | Value | Source |
|---|---|---|
| 2016 | $111,572,947,005 | world_bank_wdi |
| 2017 | $118,540,573,368 | world_bank_wdi |
| 2018 | $127,341,147,582 | world_bank_wdi |
| 2019 | $128,920,266,409 | world_bank_wdi |
| 2020 | $121,353,645,057 | world_bank_wdi |
| 2021 | $142,022,058,447 | world_bank_wdi |
| 2022 | $131,245,312,804 | world_bank_wdi |
| 2023 | $146,036,093,667 | world_bank_wdi |
| 2024 | $160,610,994,055 | world_bank_wdi |
| 2025 | $182,374,250,612 | world_bank_wdi |
International migrant stock (immigrants)
Source: World Bank WDI. Historical observations shown by reference period.
View International migrant stock (immigrants) data table
| Period | Value | Source |
|---|---|---|
| 2020 | 102,358 | world_bank_wdi |
| 2024 | 111,069 | world_bank_wdi |
International emigrant stock
Source: World Bank WDI. Historical observations shown by reference period.
View International emigrant stock data table
| Period | Value | Source |
|---|---|---|
| 1990 | 1,297,857 | un_migrant_stock_2024 |
| 1995 | 1,506,124 | un_migrant_stock_2024 |
| 2000 | 1,756,024 | un_migrant_stock_2024 |
| 2005 | 2,291,145 | un_migrant_stock_2024 |
| 2010 | 2,733,747 | un_migrant_stock_2024 |
| 2015 | 2,907,733 | un_migrant_stock_2024 |
| 2020 | 3,293,170 | un_migrant_stock_2024 |
| 2024 | 3,627,829 | un_migrant_stock_2024 |
Net migration
Source: World Bank WDI. Historical observations shown by reference period.
View Net migration data table
| Period | Value | Source |
|---|---|---|
| 2016 | -39,302 | world_bank_wdi |
| 2017 | -60,472 | world_bank_wdi |
| 2018 | -88,159 | world_bank_wdi |
| 2019 | -91,217 | world_bank_wdi |
| 2020 | -35,474 | world_bank_wdi |
| 2021 | -47,902 | world_bank_wdi |
| 2022 | -38,594 | world_bank_wdi |
| 2023 | -39,650 | world_bank_wdi |
| 2024 | -46,802 | world_bank_wdi |
| 2025 | -56,254 | world_bank_wdi |
Sources & Methodology
Current statistical observations include their reference period and provenance. Reference fields from approved source datasets are attributed below. Missing information is left unknown rather than inferred.
| Indicator | Value | Period | Source | Status |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Population | 38,430,770 | 2025 | World Bank — World Development Indicators | Verified |
| UN Population Division population estimate | 38,762,441 | 2026 | UN Population Division Data Portal | Estimated |
| Wikidata population (fallback) | 36,828,330 | 2024 | Wikidata | Reported |
| International migrant stock (immigrants) | 111,069 | 2024 | World Bank — World Development Indicators | Verified |
| International migrant stock | 0.3% | 2024 | World Bank — World Development Indicators | Verified |
| International emigrant stock | 3,627,829 | 2024 | UN DESA International Migrant Stock 2024 | Estimated |
| Net migration | -56,254 | 2025 | World Bank — World Development Indicators | Verified |
| Refugees from this country | 10,400 | 2025 | World Bank — World Development Indicators | Verified |
| Asylum seekers from this country | 22,120 | 2025 | World Bank — World Development Indicators | Verified |
| Freedom of expression & alternative information index | 0.579 | 2025 | Varieties of Democracy (V-Dem) Country-Year Dataset v16 | Estimated |
| Government censorship effort — media | -0.275 | 2025 | Varieties of Democracy (V-Dem) Country-Year Dataset v16 | Estimated |
| Harassment of journalists | 0.570 | 2025 | Varieties of Democracy (V-Dem) Country-Year Dataset v16 | Estimated |
| Print/broadcast media critical of government | 0.496 | 2025 | Varieties of Democracy (V-Dem) Country-Year Dataset v16 | Estimated |
| Range of perspectives in major media | 0.663 | 2025 | Varieties of Democracy (V-Dem) Country-Year Dataset v16 | Estimated |
| Media bias | 0.581 | 2025 | Varieties of Democracy (V-Dem) Country-Year Dataset v16 | Estimated |
| Media self-censorship | -0.171 | 2025 | Varieties of Democracy (V-Dem) Country-Year Dataset v16 | Estimated |
| Same-sex sexual activity | No Illegal since 17 June 1963; Penalty: Up to 3 to 6 years imprisonment with hard labour. | current | Wikipedia — LGBTQ rights by country or territory | Reported |
| Recognition of same-sex relationships | No | current | Wikipedia — LGBTQ rights by country or territory | Reported |
| Same-sex marriage | No | current | Wikipedia — LGBTQ rights by country or territory | Reported |
| Same-sex adoption | No | current | Wikipedia — LGBTQ rights by country or territory | Reported |
| Open military service | No | current | Wikipedia — LGBTQ rights by country or territory | Reported |
| Sexual-orientation anti-discrimination law | No | current | Wikipedia — LGBTQ rights by country or territory | Reported |
| Gender identity / expression law | No | current | Wikipedia — LGBTQ rights by country or territory | Reported |
| GDP (current US$) | $182,374,250,612 | 2025 | World Bank — World Development Indicators | Verified |
| GDP per capita (current US$) | $4,672 | 2025 | World Bank — World Development Indicators | Verified |
| GDP growth | 4.6% | 2025 | World Bank — World Development Indicators | Verified |
| Inflation, consumer prices | 0.7% | 2025 | World Bank — World Development Indicators | Verified |
| Unemployment | 9.0% | 2025 | World Bank — World Development Indicators | Verified |
| Income level | Lower middle income | current | World Bank — World Development Indicators | Verified |
| Life expectancy at birth | 75.5 years | 2024 | World Bank — World Development Indicators | Verified |
| Fertility rate | 2.2 | 2024 | World Bank — World Development Indicators | Verified |
| Urban population | 63.1% | 2025 | World Bank — World Development Indicators | Verified |
| Individuals using the Internet | 91.2% | 2024 | World Bank — World Development Indicators | Verified |
| Exports of goods and services | 42.0% | 2025 | World Bank — World Development Indicators | Verified |
| Imports of goods and services | 51.1% | 2025 | World Bank — World Development Indicators | Verified |
| Trade | 93.1% | 2025 | World Bank — World Development Indicators | Verified |
| Adult literacy rate | 64.3% | 2014 | World Bank — World Development Indicators | Verified |
| Secondary school enrolment, gross | 90.0% | 2024 | World Bank — World Development Indicators | Verified |
| Government education expenditure | 6.0% | 2023 | World Bank — World Development Indicators | Verified |
| Access to electricity | 100.0% | 2024 | World Bank — World Development Indicators | Verified |
| Electric power consumption | 997 kWh/person | 2023 | World Bank — World Development Indicators | Verified |
| Renewable energy consumption | 10.9% | 2021 | World Bank — World Development Indicators | Verified |
| Current health expenditure | 6.1% | 2023 | World Bank — World Development Indicators | Verified |
| Infant mortality rate | 14.7 per 1,000 | 2024 | World Bank — World Development Indicators | Verified |
| Forest area | 12.9% | 2023 | World Bank — World Development Indicators | Verified |
| Mobile cellular subscriptions | 153.1 per 100 | 2024 | World Bank — World Development Indicators | Verified |
| Fixed broadband subscriptions | 7.3 per 100 | 2024 | World Bank — World Development Indicators | Verified |
| Secure Internet servers | 577 per million | 2024 | World Bank — World Development Indicators | Verified |
| Latitude | 33.9905° | current | World Bank — World Development Indicators | Verified |
| Longitude | -6.8704° | current | World Bank — World Development Indicators | Verified |
| Latitude (Wikidata) | 32.0000° | current | Wikidata | Reported |
| Longitude (Wikidata) | -6.0000° | current | Wikidata | Reported |
| Time zone | UTC+01:00, Africa/Casablanca, UTC±00:00 | current | Wikidata | Reported |
| Form of government | constitutional monarchy | current | Wikidata | Reported |
Data attribution
Credits below are generated from sources actually used by this country profile. Source-specific terms take precedence.
- CIA World Factbook, final 2025 country profile (structured via factbook.json). Accessed September 20, 2026. U.S. Government public-domain data; retained as a reference source where a newer approved field is not available. Source · Terms/licence
- United Nations, Department of Economic and Social Affairs, Population Division, International Migrant Stock 2024; data access/processing via Our World in Data. Accessed September 20, 2026. Underlying UN dataset used under CC BY 3.0 IGO. Source · Terms/licence
- United Nations, Department of Economic and Social Affairs, Population Division, World Population Prospects (WPP indicator 49) Accessed September 19, 2026. Used under CC BY 3.0 IGO; current-year WPP population values are presented as estimates/projections where applicable. Source · Terms/licence
- Varieties of Democracy (V-Dem), Country-Year Dataset v16 (variables: v2mebias, v2mecenefm, v2mecrit, v2meharjrn, v2merange, v2meslfcen, v2x_freexp_altinf) Accessed September 20, 2026. Used under CC BY-SA 4.0; V-Dem measures are expert-coded/modelled and no V-Dem endorsement is implied. Source · Terms/licence
- Wikidata structured data (CC0). Accessed September 20, 2026. Attribution is provided by Knelstrom for provenance although CC0 does not require it. Source · Terms/licence
- Wikipedia, “LGBTQ rights by country or territory” (source revision/data fields: Wikipedia revision 1374406645 — Gender identity / expression law, Wikipedia revision 1374406645 — Open military service, Wikipedia revision 1374406645 — Recognition of same-sex relationships, Wikipedia revision 1374406645 — Same-sex adoption, Wikipedia revision 1374406645 — Same-sex marriage, Wikipedia revision 1374406645 — Same-sex sexual activity, Wikipedia revision 1374406645 — Sexual-orientation anti-discrimination law) Accessed September 20, 2026. Used under CC BY-SA 4.0. Knelstrom changes formatting and presents the imported material as a community-edited legal-status summary, not legal advice or a Knelstrom rights score. Source · Terms/licence
- World Bank, World Development Indicators (series: AG.LND.FRST.ZS, country_metadata, EG.ELC.ACCS.ZS, EG.FEC.RNEW.ZS, EG.USE.ELEC.KH.PC, FP.CPI.TOTL.ZG, IT.CEL.SETS.P2, IT.NET.BBND.P2, IT.NET.SECR.P6, IT.NET.USER.ZS, NE.EXP.GNFS.ZS, NE.IMP.GNFS.ZS, NE.TRD.GNFS.ZS, NY.GDP.MKTP.CD, NY.GDP.MKTP.KD.ZG, NY.GDP.PCAP.CD, SE.ADT.LITR.ZS, SE.SEC.ENRR, SE.XPD.TOTL.GD.ZS, SH.XPD.CHEX.GD.ZS, SL.UEM.TOTL.ZS, SM.POP.ASYS.EO, SM.POP.NETM, SM.POP.RHCR.EO, SM.POP.TOTL, SM.POP.TOTL.ZS, SP.DYN.IMRT.IN, SP.DYN.LE00.IN, SP.DYN.TFRT.IN, SP.POP.TOTL, SP.URB.TOTL.IN.ZS) Accessed September 20, 2026. Data used under CC BY 4.0; Knelstrom presentation/formatting may differ from the source. Source · Terms/licence
Knelstrom does not imply endorsement by any listed data provider.
Last automated statistical refresh: 2026-09-20 02:10:29