The Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON 2025) will take place in Morocco from 21 December 2025 to 18 January 2026. The tournament will bring together national teams and supporters from across the continent, along with visitors from Europe, the Middle East, and other regions. For many, the event will be both a sporting occasion and a chance to travel through one of North Africa’s most visited destinations. This report outlines the essential details for those planning to attend.

Tournament Host Cities and Venues

AFCON 2025 will be held across six cities:

1. Rabat
2. Casablanca
3. Marrakech
4. Tangier
5. Agadir
6. Fez

The opening match will take place in Rabat, with Morocco scheduled to play Comoros. Stadiums in these cities have undergone upgrades in seating, lighting, and player facilities. The changes are part of broader national infrastructure planning linked to future sporting events.

The spread of host locations means that travel between cities may be necessary depending on match schedules. Trains, domestic flights, and intercity bus services operate between all host regions. Visitors may also notice increased signage, public guidance staff, and controlled crowd movement around stadium areas on match days.

Public Fan Zones and Cultural Activities

Authorities have confirmed plans for public fan zones in each host city. These areas are expected to include:

• Outdoor match screens
• Stage performances
• Local food stalls
• Controlled family-access areas

These areas are for fans without stadium tickets and residents who want to watch the event together. While the exact layouts may vary by city, the zones are intended to be central, well-marked, and managed with security oversight.

Earlier this year, the final draw ceremony in Rabat featured music performances by artists linked to both Moroccan and wider African cultural scenes. Event organisers have stated that the same cultural approach will shape the opening and closing ceremonies, though full performer lists have not yet been released.

Ticket Sales and Official Purchase Channels

Match tickets are being issued in phases. During earlier release periods, purchases were recorded from supporters in Africa, Europe, and the Middle East. High-demand fixtures, including the opening match and late knockout rounds, may see early sell-out periods.

Visitors should:

• Buy tickets only through official tournament outlets
• Avoid resale platforms that do not provide verified entries
• Track match schedules before planning city-to-city travel

Morocco’s national airline has announced that it will increase flight capacity during the tournament. However, flight availability may tighten near the opening week and final rounds. Travellers are therefore advised to confirm air travel early, particularly for group travel or multi-city movement.

Visa and Entry Requirements

Many visitors will require either a visa or a Morocco eVisa to attend AFCON. Requirements depend on nationality, length of stay, and travel purpose.

Travellers should:

• Check passport validity (minimum 6 months is recommended)
• Confirm whether their nationality is eligible for the eVisa
• Apply early, as processing time may vary near the event period
• Keep both digital and printed copies of travel approvals during transit

A Fan ID system is expected to be used for stadium access. This form of identification links the visitor to their ticket purchase. Authorities will release the final Fan ID registration process in the lead-up to the tournament. Supporters should rely on official announcements to avoid misinformation.

Accommodation and Local Travel Planning

Accommodation demand will be higher in Rabat, Casablanca, and Marrakech during match weeks. Options include hotels, guesthouses, and short-stay rentals. Confirming reservations early will allow for better price stability and location choice.

Transport inside Moroccan cities includes:

• Taxis
• City bus routes
• Tram networks (in Rabat and Casablanca)
• Private car hire

Inter-city movement is most commonly handled through:

• The national rail network
• Domestic flights
• Inter-city coach lines

On match days, local authorities may designate controlled traffic routes and shuttle links to stadium access points. Visitors should allow additional travel time on days with high attendance.

What Visitors Should Expect

During AFCON, the atmosphere is expected to be busy and active across city centres, market districts, airport arrival areas, and transport hubs. 

Travellers should be prepared for:

• Higher passenger traffic at entry points
• Increased police and event security presence
• Crowds near stadiums and public fan areas

For visitors planning extended stays or rest days between matches, Morocco offers well-known sites, such as the old medina of Fez, the historic centre of Marrakech, the port and waterfront areas in Tangier, and coastal areas near Agadir. These activities do not require extensive travel from most host-city locations.

Final Guidance

AFCON 2025 will be a major travel period for Morocco. Supporters planning to attend should confirm tickets, accommodation, and visa arrangements as early as possible. By preparing documents and travel plans in advance, visitors can focus on the event and the experience rather than last-minute logistics.

Further official announcements regarding match access, Fan ID procedures, and additional flight scheduling are expected in the months leading up to the tournament. Travellers are encouraged to rely on verified sources only for updates.