Morocco Expands Maritime Routes for Summer Influx of Overseas Nationals

– bySaid@Bladi · 2 min read
Morocco Expands Maritime Routes for Summer Influx of Overseas Nationals

Morocco has just announced an expansion of the maritime system for the Marhaba 2025 operation. The objective is to accommodate the influx of Moroccans residing abroad during the summer period, increasing the capacity of weekly crossings to 520.

The Minister Delegate in charge of Relations with Parliament, Mustapha Baitas, detailed the system. He specified that the fleet mobilized for this operation now includes 29 ships, operated by seven maritime companies. These ships will serve twelve maritime routes between Moroccan ports and those located in Spain, France, and Italy. According to the minister, this deployment will allow "up to 500,000 passengers and 130,000 vehicles to be transported each week under increased fluidity and safety conditions."

To complement this maritime system, a rigorous territorial arrangement has been put in place. Twenty-four reception centers are operational, including eighteen on national territory and six in the European countries concerned. These centers, managed by the services of the Mohammed V Foundation for Solidarity, offer administrative, medical, and social support to travelers.

The Ministry of the Interior has also contributed to this effort by strengthening border controls. Port posts are equipped with more efficient technical tools. Mobile medical teams will also be deployed on main road axes and at strategic rest areas to ensure rapid emergency care. Mustapha Baitas emphasized: "Everything is being done to ensure a smooth crossing, a dignified reception, and optimal coordination between Moroccan authorities and European partners."

In parallel, the kingdom’s diplomatic and consular representations have mobilized ahead of this operation. They will remain open during weekends and holidays, from June 15 to September 15, to facilitate the necessary formalities for the departure or return of nationals. The concerned services will maintain constant vigilance against possible disruptions to maritime or road traffic, and will coordinate their actions with European port authorities to prevent any congestion or logistical failure. "This is a structured national effort, deployed in accordance with royal guidelines and for the benefit of our fellow citizens in the diaspora," concluded the minister.