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Morocco’s Ministry of Tourism, Handicrafts, and Social and Solidarity Economy has announced the launch of «mystery guest» inspections in classified accommodation establishments starting in May 2026.
According to a statement, operators selected through a public tender will assess around 2,500 establishments across the Kingdom.
Introduced under Law No. 80-14, these mystery visits mark a major shift in Morocco’s hotel classification system. The new approach no longer relies solely on infrastructure and facilities, but now incorporates service quality, evaluated under real stay conditions.
With this reform, Morocco is aligning itself with international standards while supporting its goal of attracting 26 million tourists by 2030.
«Mystery visits are a promise made to tourists, that their experience will match what we advertise. This is how Morocco will build the tourism reputation it deserves by 2030 and beyond», Tourism Minister Fatim-Zahra Ammor said.
The system applies to establishments rated three stars and above, including hotels, hotel clubs, tourist residences, guesthouses, riads, and kasbahs, both during initial classification and renewal processes.
The classification process will be based on two complementary steps: an inspection by a regional classification committee to verify compliance with construction and equipment standards, followed by an anonymous «mystery guest» visit conducted by a specialized auditor. This second phase will assess the entire customer journey, including booking, reception, dining, cleanliness, room service, fitness facilities, pools, entertainment amenities, check-in and check-out efficiency, and the overall guest experience.
Evaluation grids, published in the Official Bulletin, include between 235 and 387 criteria depending on the type and category of the establishment. They are designed to balance quality requirements with operational realities and the authenticity of the guest experience.
The ministry also noted that classification will no longer be permanent. It will be granted for an initial period of seven years, renewable every five years, with regular inspections.
Establishments that fail to meet the required standards will be given time to upgrade and address any shortcomings before a final classification decision is made, the statement concluded.
