DFDS wants to return between Tarifa and Tangier, but Morocco imposes a condition

The Moroccan government is currently preparing to renew this authorization, which is currently operated by Africa Morocco Link (AML). According to El Conciso, DFDS is among the groups that may be interested in the market.

On Bladi.net : Baleària Takes Over Tarifa-Tangier Ferry Route as FRS Ends 25-Year Service

The Tarifa–Tangier route is also one of the maritime gateways used every summer by MRE as part of Operation Marhaba, known as OPE on the Spanish side. The port of Tarifa and its connection with Tangier Ville are fully part of this summer crossing arrangement for the Strait.

DFDS will not be able to return alone

The difficulty for the Danish group stems from the status of the license. Since it corresponds to the Moroccan share of the route, the selected operator must have a majority of Moroccan capital. DFDS will therefore have to find a local partner if it decides to apply.

The arrangement would be nothing exceptional: the current operator AML retains a Moroccan majority, while Sweden’s Stena Line owns 49% of its capital. This structure allows Morocco to maintain a national presence on a strategically important route for travelers, particularly MRE.

On Bladi.net : Ferry Operators Clash Over Tarifa-Tangier Route Contract

DFDS already knows Tarifa–Tangier perfectly well. The group took over FRS Iberia Maroc in 2024 before losing the operation on the Spanish side to Baleària. To return to the route through the Moroccan gateway, it will this time have to convince Rabat — and above all, come accompanied by a Moroccan partner.