Morocco, Spain prepare for higher number of passenger traffic in summer 2025

Authorities in Morocco and Spain expect the number of passengers crossing from Europe to the Kingdom to increase with 12,000 ferry trips made available, up 8.4% from last year, to facilitate the operation.

The crossing, dubbed Marhaba (welcome), marks the start of the holiday season for Moroccans living in Europe coming back to spend holidays in their homeland.

Last year, 3.5 million people crossed the Mediterranean and the Strait of Gibraltar to Morocco. This year authorities expect that number to increase 5%.

The number of cars entering Morocco by sea neared 850,000 last year.

This year, the Marhaba operation will run from 15 June to 15 September involving 9 airports including Algeciras, Malaga, Almeria, Ceuta and Melilla.

A staff exceeding 1200 people including nurses, translators, medics, social workers, red cross volunteers and others are taking part in this year’s crossing operation.

A joint Moroccan-Spanish statement underscored the importance of this cross-border operation in promoting excellent bilateral ties.

Many Spanish port cities experience improved business activity thanks to this operation, which draws tourists and revenue for local businesses.