Morocco Pledges to Address Soaring Ferry Prices for Diaspora’s Summer Return

Speaking during the oral question session in the House of Representatives, Nasser Bourita, Minister of Foreign Affairs and African Cooperation, promised to examine the issue of the surge in boat ticket prices so that a solution can be found. These remarks by the Moroccan diplomatic chief seem to follow a letter that MP Malika Lahyan had addressed to him in early May.

"As we approach the summer holidays, and with the Marhaba operation this year aimed at welcoming Moroccans, they (the MREs) could have difficulty coming in the midst of the rise in ticket prices," Malika Lahya had written. According to the elected official, the total cost of the trip to and from Morocco can reach up to 8,000 dirhams (800 euros). A huge amount for the families of MREs who are already suffering from the high cost of living. She had also called on the head of Moroccan diplomacy to implement measures to lower prices and support the return of MREs and foreign tourists.

After two years of suspension due to the Covid-19 pandemic, the Marhaba operation will be launched in early June 2022. According to Nasser Bourita, Morocco expects to welcome some three million MREs this summer.