Overview of Morocco

Profile

Morocco sits at strategic crossroads where Arab world, Africa, and Europe meet, maintaining stable politics under Alaouite dynasty monarchy. Possesses rich historical heritage and diverse ethnic cultures, with medinas like Fez and Marrakech known as World Heritage sites. Economically relies on resource industries backed by world's largest phosphate rock reserves, automotive and aircraft parts industries for European market, agricultural and fishery exports, and tourism. Actively introduces renewable energy, increasing solar and wind power ratios.

Official name: Kingdom of Morocco
Common name: Morocco
Numeric code: 504
Alpha-3 code: MAR
Alpha-2 code: MA
Population: Approximately 37 million (2023)
Population density: Approximately 84 people/km²
Primary languages: Arabic, Berber
Major religions: Islam (Sunni)
National anthem: Hymne Chérifien (Cherifian Anthem)
Calling code: +212
Internet TLD: .ma

History

From Berber kingdoms through Islamic dynasties and French-Spanish protectorates to independence in 1956.

Coastal areas began as ancient Carthaginian trading posts, later becoming Roman provinces and Islamized in 8th century. Powerful states like Almoravid and Almohad dynasties ruled Maghreb and Iberia, with Alaouite dynasty reigning from 16th century onward. Became French-Spanish protectorate under 1912 Treaty of Fez, but achieved complete independence in 1956 after independence movement. While holding Western Sahara issue, has strengthened positioning as Africa-Middle East hub since 1990s through political-economic reforms and infrastructure development.

Geography & climate

North has Rif Mountains and fertile plains, Atlas Mountains run through center, south continues to Sahara Desert creating diverse terrain. Long coastlines on Atlantic Ocean and Mediterranean Sea.

Mixed Mediterranean, semi-arid, and desert climates

Area: Africa / 446550 km²
Capital: Rabat
Largest city: Casablanca
Coastal status: Yes
Bordering countries: Algeria, Western Sahara, Spain (Ceuta, Melilla)

Natural resources

Phosphate rock, Lead, Zinc, Silver, Gold, Copper, Cobalt, Strontium, Iron ore, Manganese, Natural gas, Small amount of crude oil, Fishery resources, Argan trees, Saffron, Solar power, Wind power, Tourism resources

Politics

Government: Constitutional monarchy (Alaouite dynasty)

Economy

Currency: Moroccan Dirham (MAD)

GDP (nominal): 142.9 billion USD (2023)

GDP (PPP): 379 billion USD (2023)

Language & timezone

Primary languages: Arabic, Berber

Time zone: Western European Time, Western European Summer Time

Culture & customs

Ethnic groups

Arab Moroccans, Berbers (Amazigh), Sahrawis, Jewish Moroccans, Gnawa (Sub-Saharan African), European (French, Spanish)

Life expectancy

75.6 years

Literacy rate

74.7%

National sports

Football, Athletics, Tennis, Futsal, Fantasia horseback riding, Surfing