Over 30,000 Moroccans living abroad passed through the port of Al Hoceima since the launch of the annual Marhaba 2024 operation.
As of last Saturday, 30,555 Moroccans living abroad have passed through the port, Adil El Bardi, the port’s Director told the country’s news agency MAP.
Operation Marhaba runs from June 5 to September 15 every year and it aims to provide support at busy transit points, offering medical care, administrative assistance, and social support to Moroccans living abroad and returning to visit their home country during the summer vacations.
Official data reveals that 20,223 passengers have arrived in Morocco through Al Hoceima, while 10,332 have departed abroad.
In addition, the port has managed the movement of 7,690 vehicles, comprising 2,508 incoming and 5,182 outgoing vehicles.
Despite the robust results, the port saw a notable decline in traffic this year. Passenger arrivals and vehicle movements have dropped by 15% and 13%, respectively.
El Bardi attributes the trend to the delay in starting Marhaba operation this year.
In response to the increased demand and to improve efficiency, the National Ports Agency is investing in advanced security and comfort upgrades for the port.
El Bardi also spotlighted ongoing efforts to enhance coordination with various stakeholders to ensure a smoother experience for travelers.
As of August 15, nearly 1.9 million passengers and 447,000 vehicles have passed through Moroccan ports, according to the Ministry of Transport and Logistics.
The country saw a peak in incomings on August 3 and 4, with more than 80,000 passengers and 20,000 cars.