UAE to Develop One of the World’s Largest Tourism Villages in Morocco’s Sahara Region, Paving the Way for a New Travel Hub

The United Arab Emirates (UAE) has announced an ambitious plan to develop one of the largest tourism villages along Morocco’s Atlantic coastline, specifically in the Sahara region. Located in La Güera, a sparsely populated coastal area often referred to as a “ghost town,” the project is expected to transform the region into a major travel and leisure destination. The Sahara’s remote beauty, combined with significant investments, will soon pave the way for a sustainable tourism boom in southern Morocco. This initiative, which highlights the UAE’s growing influence and investment in Morocco, is set to take place near the country’s southernmost border along the Atlantic Ocean.

The Strategic Location and Vision

La Güera, which is considered a desolate stretch of land, will soon house a state-of-the-art tourism complex designed to elevate the region’s tourism potential. While Morocco has long been a sought-after destination for travelers seeking rich culture, history, and landscapes, the Sahara region has largely remained untapped. The UAE’s initiative could reshape the future of tourism in this area by offering a mix of luxury accommodations and extensive leisure amenities that draw both international and domestic visitors.

This initiative, announced amidst the shifting political and economic dynamics in the region, aims to establish the Sahara region as a central hub for luxury tourism. The UAE’s growing involvement in Morocco, marked by economic investments and diplomatic engagement, further cements this vision. This development is seen as a key component of Morocco’s long-term plan to diversify its tourism sector ahead of hosting the 2030 FIFA World Cup alongside Spain and Portugal.

Scope of the Tourism Development

The UAE’s proposed tourism village is designed to provide an extensive range of facilities that cater to various traveler preferences. The development will include high-end chalets and villas, upscale hotels and guesthouses, as well as unique luxury desert tents. The village will also feature swimming pools, water parks, fitness centers, spa facilities, and landscaped green spaces. Families with children can enjoy playgrounds, while restaurants, cafés, retail outlets, and quick-service kiosks will provide ample dining and shopping options.

In addition to the leisure facilities, the development will include key infrastructure such as reception and security services, parking for both cars and buses, electricity and sewage systems, and internet connectivity. A marina, conference halls, and event spaces will also be part of the project, ensuring that the village will be equipped to host large gatherings and corporate events. The comprehensive planning behind this initiative ensures that the tourism village will be well-equipped to cater to a global audience, offering a blend of relaxation, adventure, and business-focused facilities.

The UAE-Morocco Bilateral Relationship

The tourism project is a natural extension of the strengthening political and economic ties between the UAE and Morocco. The UAE has become one of Morocco’s largest foreign investors, with Emirati investments reaching approximately $188 million by the middle of 2025, positioning the UAE as the second-largest foreign investor after France.

The UAE’s strategic move to open a consulate in Laayoune in 2020, followed by plans for an embassy in Dakhla, underscores the deepening bilateral relationship between the two nations. These actions, coupled with growing investments in energy and infrastructure projects, signal a shift towards a more integrated partnership. A consortium of Emirati and Moroccan investors has already signed memoranda of understanding to develop water and energy infrastructure projects valued at approximately $14 billion, further consolidating the UAE’s economic footprint in Morocco.

A Boost to Morocco’s Infrastructure Ahead of the 2030 World Cup

The UAE’s tourism project is also closely aligned with Morocco’s broader infrastructure goals. As Morocco prepares to co-host the 2030 FIFA World Cup, the country is fast-tracking major infrastructure developments across the region. These include improvements in transportation networks, accommodation facilities, and tourism-related services. The Sahara tourism village will serve as a cornerstone of Morocco’s efforts to create a world-class tourism ecosystem capable of supporting a large influx of visitors for the 2030 World Cup.

In addition to this, Morocco’s government continues to focus on expanding its tourism offerings. These initiatives will help to balance the demand for traditional destinations like Marrakesh, Casablanca, and Fez by offering new and unique experiences in less explored regions, like the Sahara. This diversification is essential as Morocco seeks to attract international tourists and make the most of its role as a co-host of one of the world’s largest sporting events.

Future Prospects for the Sahara Region

The UAE’s planned tourism village marks a significant shift for the Sahara region. Known for its desert landscapes and sparse population, this area has often been overlooked by traditional tourism. The UAE’s commitment to sustainable development and infrastructure improvement will serve as a model for other nations looking to invest in remote regions. By leveraging the region’s natural beauty and unique cultural offerings, the UAE’s project could spur further interest in the Sahara as an emerging travel hotspot.

Moreover, the tourism complex could help create thousands of new jobs in the region, enhancing the local economy and contributing to socio-economic development. It will also provide a significant boost to local businesses, ranging from construction to hospitality services, as the region becomes a key destination for both leisure and corporate events.

Conclusion

The UAE’s decision to invest in a massive tourism village along Morocco’s Atlantic coast will not only revitalize the Sahara region but also significantly enhance Morocco’s global tourism appeal. As the country continues to develop infrastructure in anticipation of the 2030 FIFA World Cup, this project will serve as a major catalyst for growth. For travelers, this development promises to offer a new frontier in luxury and adventure tourism, further solidifying Morocco’s status as a key player on the world tourism stage.

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