Tourists Decry Taxi Scams and Overcharging in Morocco’s Capital

Many visitors to the Moroccan capital have recently complained about the quality of taxi services, denouncing the fraudulent practices of some drivers who refuse to activate the meter, impose exorbitant fares, or refuse without reason to take them to their destination. Drivers operating in areas such as the medina, Rabat-Salé airport, or around major hotels, are those who engage in these bad practices, in violation of the rules governing the sector.

Several tourists and visitors told Al Akhbar that they had been victims of abuse by Rabat taxi drivers who consider them as mere "opportunities for quick gain". The increase in complaints of abuse is concerning consumer protection associations who denounce the laxity of authorities in the face of this situation. According to data reported by these associations, these complaints have increased by 40% in 2024 compared to the previous year.

Even though local authorities continue to carry out unexpected control operations, regulating the sector remains a major challenge to be addressed given the size of the taxi fleet and the absence of structured transport alternatives, notes the daily. For their part, professionals explain that this situation is due, not to the greed and avarice of some drivers, but rather to a disorganization of the sector that makes taxis indispensable for visitors.

Professionals also denounce the absence of dissuasive sanctions against drivers who scam tourists, emphasizing that these practices harm the image and attractiveness of the kingdom, which is working to position itself as an essential global tourist destination.