[Lifestyle]Marhaba 2025: Morocco Welcomes 1.5 Million Diaspora Returns

[-CosmiNNe]

Rabat — Morocco welcomed over 1.5 million diaspora members back home by July 10, marking a significant 13.30% increase compared to the same period last year.

Foreign Minister Nasser Bourita presented the figures of Moroccans living abroad (MREs) coming back to their country to the Government Council as part of his briefing on the 2025 Marhaba operation.

Marhaba operation is Morocco’s annual summer program that helps Moroccans living abroad return home for vacation.

The numbers tell a compelling story of growing connections between Morocco and its diaspora.

Along with the 1,520,951 Moroccan residents abroad (MREs) who returned, officials registered 151,411 vehicles crossing into the country — a 3.56% rise from 2024.

The government has intensified its efforts to handle the influx, with the country now processing more than 67,000 Moroccan arrivals daily during peak summer season, with July 14 recording the highest single-day numbers so far.

Officials expect this upward trend to continue through the coming weeks as more families complete their summer journeys home.

Over the last year, Morocco has significantly boosted its transportation infrastructure to meet growing demand.

The maritime plan now includes 29 ships operated by seven different companies, running across 12 routes that connect Moroccan ports with destinations in Spain, France, and Italy.

These expanded sea routes can now handle 7.3 million passengers and two million vehicles — a 3% capacity increase from last year’s operation.

The Marhaba operation reflects Morocco’s commitment to maintaining strong ties with its diaspora community, which plays a crucial role in the country’s economy through remittances and investments.

The program’s success demonstrates the enduring bonds between Morocco and the millions of Moroccans who have built lives abroad while maintaining deep connections to their homeland.

https://www.moroccoworldnews.com/2025/07/231306/marhaba-2025-morocco-welcomes-1-5-million-diaspora-returns/