More than 1.5 million Moroccans living abroad returned home by July 10, marking a 13.3% increase from 2024 and setting a new record for the country’s annual Marhaba operation, the country’s officials announced.
Operation Marhaba, the summer repatriation program launched June 5 in partnership with the Mohammed V Foundation for Solidarity, has processed daily arrivals exceeding 67,000 travelers.
Tangier Med Port reported its highest single-day passenger volume on July 7, welcoming more than 20,000 travelers and nearly 5,000 vehicles.
Officials attributed the surge to improved port logistics, digital ticketing systems and enhanced onboard services.
The 2025 operation has benefited from expanded infrastructure and streamlined border coordination.
Ministry data shows sustained growth in diaspora engagement with development initiatives and cultural events, including preparations for the Dakar 2026 Pan-African Expo where Moroccan participants will feature prominently.
The record numbers reflect Morocco’s broader strategy to strengthen ties with its overseas population.
Minister Nasser Bourita told parliament in May that the approach responds to royal directives outlined in King Mohammed VI’s November 6, 2024 speech, which called for institutional reforms and creation of the Mohammedia Foundation for Moroccans Residing Abroad.
Despite financial transfers from the diaspora exceeding 117 billion dirhams ($12.9 billion), only 10% of these funds currently flow toward investment, Bourita noted.
The government aims to adapt laws and procedures to better mobilize the economic potential of Moroccans abroad, who constitute a strategic lever for the kingdom’s development.
Analysts view the increased homecoming as part of broader trends in transnational identity and investment among Morocco’s overseas population.
The emotional and cultural connections between diaspora communities and their homeland continue to strengthen, officials said.
The Ministry and Foundation are tracking movement data and traveler feedback through online dashboards. The operation runs through September 15.
Marrakech, July 20, 2025 – Bantu Gazette
