Hotel Boom for 2030 World Cup: Morocco plans to add about 60,000 hotel beds by the 2030 FIFA World Cup, building on roughly 45,000 added in the past four years, as tourism minister Fatim-Zahra Ammor calls the tournament an “accelerator” for hospitality growth and jobs. Global Hotel Giants Move In: International chains are ramping up interest in Morocco, driven by Europe’s proximity, strong post-Covid recovery, tourism roadmap momentum, and incentives like the Investment Charter and Cap Hospitality—bringing higher standards and know-how. Marrakech Tourist Safety Crackdown: Police in Marrakech’s old medina arrested an unlicensed tour guide accused of extorting and assaulting a foreign tourist after a video surfaced online; the suspect is in custody as investigations continue. Morocco–Benin Cooperation: Morocco’s foreign minister Nasser Bourita met Benin’s president in Cotonou, with both sides highlighting expanded ties across trade, investment, tourism, agriculture, security, and education. Sahara Support Reaffirmed: Benin reiterated support for Morocco’s territorial integrity and backed the UN-endorsed autonomy plan, with a planned visit to Dakhla to explore partnerships. WAFCON in Morocco: Banyana Banyana arrived in Morocco ahead of WAFCON 2026 (July 26–Aug 16), with preparations intensifying for the title defence and 2027 Women’s World Cup qualification.