Africa’s most visited country ruled by world’s second oldest dynasty | World | News

Africa has a huge variety of tourist destinations that attract millions of visitors.

Countries such as Egypt and South Africa are some of the leading destinations for those travelling to the continent.

Africa’s combination of stunning natural landscapes and wildlife, unique cultures, and vibrant cities makes it irresistible to many globetrotters.

Just last year, some 74 million people visited the continent, 12% more than in 2023 and 7% more than in 2019 prior to the Covid pandemic.

The most popular destination last year for tourists was Morocco, which welcomed a whopping 17.4 million visitors.

The North African country borders the Atlantic Ocean and the Mediterranean Sea and is distinguished by its Berber, Arabian, and European cultural influences.

It is a land of Islamic imperial grandeur and old-European elegance that never fails to enchant visitors.

Rabat, the country’s historic capital and home to the Kasbah of the Udayas, offers a taste of that splendour.

Formal French-designed gardens surround this Berber-era royal fort and overlook the ocean.

Kasbahs are an integral part of the country’s past, reflecting its rich history of conquests, trade, and cultural exchange.

These fortresses have witnessed the rise and fall of dynasties, the passage of caravans, and the blending of various cultural influences.

The country is ruled by the Alawi dynasty, which claims to be descended from the Islamic Prophet Muhammad and is the world’s second-oldest monarchy.

Its current head, and the 23rd in line is King Mohammed VI, who succeeded to the throne in 1999.

The king is one of the wealthiest monarchs in the world and has amassed a fortune that is estimated to be worth US$ 2.1 billion (£1.7bn).

Morocco’s success is due to several factors, including its decision to launch 120 new airline routes last year.

Additionally, high-profile luxury hotel openings, such as Four Seasons and Nobu properties across the country, have enhanced Morocco’s appeal to affluent travellers.