Resumption of Maritime Operations and Upcoming Challenges
Following the recent strikes that affected maritime traffic between Tarifa and Tangier City, normal operations have resumed, albeit with a limited number of Moroccan expatriates returning from their countries of residence in Europe. Official data obtained by hespress.com from reliable sources reveal that port authorities, in coordination with various stakeholders involved in managing the "Marhaba 2026" operation, have begun holding meetings to review the feedback received regarding the reception of Moroccans living abroad during the previous year and to explore ways to improve the process.
Anticipation of High Volume Returns This Summer
According to the same sources, the current return of Moroccans from abroad remains relatively low, with this phase acting as a preparatory period leading up to the peak season that typically begins in late June and early July. During this peak period, there is a significant influx of Moroccans returning home in large numbers. Reports suggest that this year, the flow of Moroccan migrants returning from Spain to Morocco could exceed 3.5 million, along with an anticipated 800,000 vehicles.
It is noteworthy that the "Marhaba 2026" operation is receiving special attention from King Mohammed VI, having been launched by the Mohammed V Foundation for Solidarity on June 10, following the King's directives, to facilitate the reception of Moroccans living abroad. The foundation, which plays a crucial role in executing the operation alongside all relevant partners, has activated a comprehensive reception system simultaneously in Morocco, France, Spain, and Italy, starting at midnight on Wednesday to Thursday.
The "Marhaba 2026" initiative features an enhanced reception system compared to previous versions, comprising a network of 26 reception spaces both within Morocco and abroad. This ensures a close presence to the Moroccan diaspora at key transit points typically used during their travels. In Morocco, 20 operational centers are situated at the ports of Tangier Med, Tangier City, Al Hoceima, and Nador Beni Ensar, as well as at the airports of Casablanca Mohammed V, Rabat Salé, Oujda Angad, Nador Aroui, Agadir Al Massira, Fes Saïs, Marrakech Menara, Tangier Ibn Battouta, Laayoune Hassan I, and Dakhla, including rest areas at Tangier Med, Jebha, Tazaghine, and Smir in Mdiq, in addition to the crossings at Bab Sebta and Melilla.
As reported by hespress.com.
