Morocco is turning to the fast-growing video game industry as a strategic pillar for job creation and economic diversification, unveiling new investments, training programs, and international partnerships to position the country as a gaming hub in Africa.
With youth unemployment hovering near 30 percent, the government is focusing on the video game sector as a way to tap into the creative potential of its tech-savvy youth population. Central to this push is the upcoming Rabat Gaming City, a dedicated complex spanning five hectares that will host game studios, e-sports venues, training centers, and virtual reality labs.
Authorities have also launched nationwide initiatives to integrate video game development into university and vocational programs. Starting from the next academic year, students will be able to study game design, programming, e-sports management, and digital storytelling at public institutions across the country. These efforts aim to train thousands of young Moroccans in a field that has seen explosive global growth.
In parallel, Morocco has signed multiple international cooperation agreements to support game development and incubation programs. These include funding for a new game creator initiative, which offers free nine-month intensive training and mentorship to aspiring developers.
Officials say the goal is to double Morocco’s gaming revenue by 2030, aiming to capture at least one percent of the global market. Projections suggest that Rabat Gaming City alone could generate up to 5,000 direct and indirect jobs once fully operational.
The government is also banking on the rise of mobile gaming and e-sports across the continent to position Morocco as a regional leader in digital entertainment. The recent success of the country’s first national gaming expo has added momentum, showcasing local talent and attracting interest from global tech companies.
As Morocco deepens its commitment to the video game sector, officials believe the industry could provide long-term economic benefits, empower creative youth, and help reduce brain drain. The move signals a shift in national policy one that embraces digital innovation as a tool for inclusive growth and global competitiveness.