The resumption of air connections was greeted with relief by tourism operators and Moroccan nationals abroad, some of whom have been stranded for weeks due to the outbreak of the Omicron variant in Morocco.
This reopening is accompanied by strict restrictive measures for entering Moroccan territory, although less draconian than before the borders closed on November 29.
Vaccination pass required
All travelers must be vaccinated, according to a government press release. In addition to the vaccination pass, they must present the result of a negative PCR test less than 48 hours old when boarding.
Upon arrival in Morocco, they are subject to a rapid antigen test and “random” PCR tests will be carried out on groups of passengers.
Finally, for tourists, the authorities provide “the possibility of carrying out an additional test at the hotel or residence center 48 hours after their entry into the territory”, specifies the press release. Passengers who test positive will have to isolate themselves in their place of residence.
Vital sector
To recover the tourism sector, the government has planned a partnership program with international tour operators and airlines.
An international advertising campaign is also planned to promote the “Morocco destination” which will start as soon as foreign tourists return.
The Moroccan tourism sector has been severely shaken by an unprecedented 71% drop in tourist arrivals in 2021 compared to 2019. Losses, over two years, amount to 20 million travelers and 90 billion dirhams (80 million euros) in foreign currency income.The government has launched an emergency plan of two billion dirhams (1.8 million euros) in order to preserve jobs and enable tourism businesses to cope with the financial constraints due to the interruption of their activities. A plan considered too timid by players in the sector.
While air traffic resumes on February 7, the government warned, last Friday, passenger maritime transport professionals of the extension of the suspension of these trips until further notice.
source: telquel.ma
