Morocco and Spain Prepare for Massive Summer Diaspora Return Operation

The first meeting of the Moroccan-Spanish joint commission will be held in May in the two countries. On the agenda: the Marhaba 2024 operation, which is traditionally organized between June 5 and September 15 each year. On this occasion, the two countries will have to discuss the various organizational and technical details, but also agree on a complete action plan to ensure a smooth and safe passage for members of the Moroccan community through the Strait of Gibraltar.

This year, the start of the operation coincides with the approach of Eid al-Adha. Large influxes should be recorded during the operation, as the majority of Moroccan families residing abroad will want to return to Morocco. The ports in northern Morocco, particularly Tanger Ville and Tanger Med, will therefore have to take a series of preparatory measures to welcome the Moroccan community, including strengthening human resources and equipment in the ports, extending working hours at border crossings, simplifying administrative procedures and organizing awareness campaigns on traffic and safety rules.

In 2023, the Marhaba operation was a great success. In total, 2.84 million travelers and 642,000 vehicles were recorded in both directions. They entered Morocco through Moroccan ports during the period from June 5 to September 15, 2023.