Arriving from Morocco without speaking Dutch, Souad El Markhous started out as a cleaner at a construction company in Amsterdam. Twenty-three years later, she became a co-owner. Along the way, she studied in secret, narrowly helped avert a bankruptcy and made an extraordinary rise.
She studied law and dreamed of becoming a lawyer. But for Chaymae, who is of Moroccan origin, taking off her hijab to practise the profession was out of the question. She ultimately chose a completely different path: she and her husband have just opened a Moroccan restaurant in Belgium.
A Moroccan intermediary allegedly has access to Spain’s consulate in Tangier to facilitate visa applications for senior officials. Lists of prominent figures, access to offices and the ability to check on applications: a Spanish media investigation describes a system far removed from standard procedures.
MoroccoThe Foreign Exchange Office has unveiled a major easing of regulations for 2026. Currency allowances for business travel, tourism, and studies abroad are being increased to support the international opening of the economy.
SportAfter months of uncertainty following a serious injury, Achraf Hakimi appears to have regained his full physical condition. The Moroccan full-back is building momentum at the perfect time for Paris Saint-Germain, who are entering the final European sprint.
MoroccoA study published in Chemistry Africa reveals that the local «Picholine» variety offers superior quality to Italian olives grown in Morocco. Its content of phenolic compounds and oleic acid clearly surpasses that of imported plants.
BelgiumMajor Belgian retailers such as Delhaize, Colruyt and Lidl are extensively adapting their shelves for Ramadan 2026. This commercial strategy responds to growing local demand, driven by a significant increase in sales of halal and traditional products.
MoroccoThe fertility rate in Morocco fell to 1.97 children per woman in 2024, marking a historic turning point. For the first time, the country has dropped below the replacement rate, signaling the rapid aging of its population.
MoroccoA 21-year-old Moroccan national, threatened with death by her family because of her homosexuality , was deported from the United States to Cameroon. The transfer, carried out despite a U.S. court ruling, ultimately forced her to return clandestinely to Morocco.
SportMoroccan international goalkeeper Yassine Bounou revealed that Bayern Munich’s hesitation hastened his move to Al Hilal in 2023. The Atlas Lion says he does not regret the decision despite the German giant’s initial interest.
FranceAn major drug trafficking operation ordered from Morocco has been dismantled by the gendarmerie in Val-d’Oise. Thirteen suspects were arrested for organizing the resale of cannabis and laundering more than 200,000 euros through sports betting.
SportCaptain against Metz, Achraf Hakimi confirmed that his legs are back during Paris’s 3-0 victory. Playing very high up and often dangerous, he convinced most media outlets… without yet getting everyone to agree on his influence.
FranceThe French Council of Muslim Faith (CFCM) has condemned the division surrounding the start of Ramadan 2026 . The body is defending its choice of February 19, based on astronomical calculations, against a unilateral reversal deemed harmful to the unity of the faithful.