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Tourism

Morocco's Marhaba 2024 Operation Sees Record-Breaking Transit Numbers

Tuesday 15 - 12:20

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Morocco's annual Marhaba operation, designed to facilitate the summer return of Moroccan expatriates, has witnessed unprecedented success in 2024. According to Transport and Logistics Minister Mohamed Abdeljalil, over three million passengers traversed Moroccan ports between June 5 and September 15, marking a significant increase from previous years.

The operation, which caters primarily to Moroccans residing abroad, saw a 6% rise in passenger numbers and a 10% increase in vehicle traffic compared to the previous year. Notably, 70% of the travelers were members of the Moroccan diaspora.

To accommodate this influx, the Ministry of Transport orchestrated an extensive maritime network. Twenty-nine vessels, operated by seven companies, plied routes connecting Moroccan ports with key European destinations in Spain, France, and Italy. The ministry aimed to provide more than 535 weekly crossings, with a maximum capacity of 500,000 passengers and 130,000 vehicles per week.

Minister Abdeljalil highlighted several measures taken to ensure smooth operations. These included monitoring crossing prices, maintaining advance ticket reservations across all routes, and conducting thorough technical inspections of vessels to meet national and international safety standards.

El Karam Amine, director of port police and regulations at the National Ports Agency, emphasized the agency's efforts to implement necessary measures at the ports of Nador and Al Hoceima. These initiatives were crucial in facilitating seamless passage for Moroccans living abroad.

The Marhaba operation, launched annually in June, has become a cornerstone in Morocco's efforts to maintain strong ties with its diaspora. By providing support and assistance during arrivals and departures, the initiative not only eases logistical challenges but also strengthens cultural connections for Moroccans returning to their homeland during the summer months.

As Morocco continues to refine and expand this operation, it sets a noteworthy example of how nations can effectively manage large-scale seasonal migration while fostering relationships with their expatriate communities.