RAM CEO Abdelhamid Addou Recognized by Forbes for Driving Morocco's Aviation, Tourism
He was recently recognized by Forbes Middle East ranked Addou in its list of the 'Middle East's Top 100 Travel and Tourism Leaders,' ranking 45th. The magazine spotlighted his work in expanding RAM's international partnerships and increasing its seat capacity to record levels. It also recognized his role in positioning RAM as a bridge between Africa and the rest of the world.
Appointed to his position by King Mohammed VI, Addou has led the company through an ambitious expansion plan that aims to modernize its fleet, boost international partnerships, and strengthen its position as a key African and global airline.
Born in Rabat on September 26, 1972, Addou graduated from the Mohammadia School of Engineers in 1997 with a degree in civil engineering. His early career was not in aviation but in major multinational companies. From 1997 to 2002, he worked at Procter & Gamble, followed by a marketing position at Coca-Cola.
He later moved into the telecommunications sector, joining Méditel (now Orange Morocco) as Director of the Business Division.
In 2008, Addou became CEO of the Moroccan National Tourist Office (ONMT), where he helped design and launch Morocco's Vision 2020 for tourism, a long-term strategy to make the country one of the top 20 tourist destinations in the world.
Before joining RAM, he also served as CEO of Diana Holding, a large Moroccan agri-food group, and of SAEMOG, a tourism and real estate company. Leading Royal Air Maroc
When Addou was appointed Chairman and CEO of RAM in February 2016, at the age of 44, it marked a new chapter for the airline. He was seen as a young, energetic leader capable of turning challenges into opportunities.
Under his leadership, RAM has pursued a strong growth strategy. By 2019, the airline was flying to 99 destinations across five continents with a fleet of 52 aircraft.
In 2023, Addou presented a 2023-2037 strategic plan that aims to grow the fleet to 200 aircraft and increase annual passenger numbers to 31.6 million.
And in December that year, RAM operated Africa's first carbon-neutral flight using sustainable aviation fuel, in partnership with Afriquia SMDC, a first for the continent.
Addou has overseen one of the largest fleet renewal programs in the airline's history. In 2024, RAM launched a major tender to buy 200 new planes, mainly Boeing models. By June 2025, negotiations were underway for 24 Boeing 787 Dreamliners, up to 50 Boeing 737s, and a first-ever order for 20 Airbus A220s.
Partnerships have been a core part of Addou's strategy. In September 2023, RAM signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with Air Senegal to expand cooperation in West Africa.
In March 2025, RAM signed an MoU with China Southern Airlines to develop a codeshare agreement with the goal of improving connectivity between Africa and China.
RAM has also celebrated the return of direct flights between Casablanca and Beijing, an important link for both business and tourism. Competing with low-cost airlines
Addou has openly acknowledged the challenge posed by low-cost carriers, especially in Europe. He has positioned RAM as a service, and quality-focused airline that offers a stronger network to Africa and Europe, while Gulf carriers dominate routes to Asia.
Addou is not only a leader within Morocco but also a respected figure in the international aviation community. He is a member of the Board of Governors of IATA (International Air Transport Association), the Executive Committee of AACO (Arab Air Carriers Organization), the AFRAA (African Airlines Association), and the Oneworld Alliance Governing Board.
He has represented Africa in global aviation discussions, during which he emphasized that RAM's growth strategy is based on realistic market data rather than overly optimistic projections.
Under Addou's leadership, Royal Air Maroc has achieved several important milestones. In summer 2025, the airline announced a record-breaking program offering 6.6 million seats across more than 95 destinations worldwide.
In 2023, it made history by operating the first carbon-neutral flight from Africa, using sustainable aviation fuel in partnership with Afriquia SMDC. The airline has also earned international recognition for its quality of service, holding a prestigious 4-Star Skytrax rating and being named 'Best Airline in Africa' by Global Traveler for two consecutive years.
To support its long-term growth strategy, RAM is in advanced negotiations to acquire 200 new aircraft, a move that is expected to significantly expand its fleet and global reach.
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