Where? We will be arranging a shuttle for guests to be picked up at the Post office parking in Gueliz at 15.30 and another at 16.00 on the 22nd. You must let us know if you are going to use this shuttle. Shuttle will cost 50dhs per person return, payable to the driver.
Who? BBAMorocco Members and their guests. Please tell your friends and bring as many as you can, all are welcome, we just need to know numbers in advance.
What This will be a great afternoon and time to enjoy the gardens and the pool, listen to a fabulous Storyteller, provided by our very own Mike Wood, and enjoy a great BBQ meal and evening with friends. Food and one welcome drink are included.
We hope you will all support this fundraising effort and look forward to seeing you on the 22nd.
How? We will be taking payments at our monthly meeting this Wednesday, and online payments can be made to bank details below:
Account name: British Business Association Morocco Account number: 011450000002200003945203 Bank name : BMCE Bank address: 137 Av. Mohammed V, 40000 Marrakech
Morocco has initiated an international tender for the concession, development, equipping, operation, and maintenance of what is slated to become Africa’s largest shipyard. Located in Casablanca, this ambitious $300 million project signifies a strategic move to enhance Morocco’s maritime capabilities and establish the nation as a key player in the regional and continental maritime industry. The National Ports Agency (ANP), a state-run entity, is spearheading this initiative, seeking experienced operators for a 30-year concession to manage the expansive 52-acre facility. This development mirrors Morocco’s successful trajectory in the automotive sector, where it has emerged as a significant exporter to the European Union. The government aims to replicate this industrial prowess in the maritime domain, fostering economic growth and technological advancement.
State-of-the-Art Infrastructure
The tender documents released by the ANP provide detailed specifications of the planned infrastructure. Key installations will include a substantial 244-meter by 40-meter dry dock, capable of accommodating large vessels for repair and maintenance. Additionally, a 150-meter by 28-meter lifting platform with a 9,000-tonne capacity will enable efficient handling of various ship types. The facility will also feature a 62-meter by 13-meter basin equipped with a 450-ton gantry crane, further enhancing its operational capabilities. Complementing these core structures will be 820 linear meters of outfitting quays, providing ample space for post-docking work, and 21 hectares of open terrain dedicated to operational activities and logistical support. This comprehensive infrastructure underscores the scale and ambition of the project.
Attracting Global Expertise
The international tender mandates that bidding companies possess at least ten years of experience in operating comparable shipyards. This requirement aims to ensure that the project is entrusted to seasoned professionals capable of managing a facility of this magnitude and complexity. The tender allows for both independent bids and consortiums, with the latter requiring an experienced operator to lead the group. Industry sources suggest that prominent international players such as France’s Naval Group, a leading naval contractor, and South Korea’s Hyundai, the operator of the world’s largest shipyard in Ulsan, are potential frontrunners for the contract. The involvement of such experienced entities highlights the global interest in this strategic African maritime project.
Strategic Objectives and Regional Impact
Enhancing Naval Autonomy
Beyond serving commercial and fishing vessels, the new shipyard will provide critical maintenance and repair services for Morocco’s military fleet. This capability is particularly significant as it will allow Morocco to maintain its naval vessels domestically, thereby reducing the expenditure of foreign currency on overseas services. This move aligns with Morocco’s broader strategy to strengthen its national sovereignty and reduce reliance on external entities for critical infrastructure maintenance. The timing of this development is also noteworthy, coinciding with Morocco’s plans to loosen its currency peg in 2026, making domestic maintenance a more economically sound option.
Capitalizing on Geopolitical Shifts
The project’s strategic importance has been further amplified by recent geopolitical developments. Following the autumn 2022 redirection of Russia’s fishing fleet maintenance from Spanish Canary Island ports to Moroccan organizations due to sanctions related to the Ukraine conflict, Morocco has witnessed an increased demand for its maritime services. The new shipyard is poised to capitalize on this shift, positioning Casablanca as a viable alternative for vessel maintenance in the region. This ability to adapt to and benefit from global changes underscores the strategic foresight behind the development of this large-scale facility.
Replicating Industrial Success
Morocco’s decision to invest heavily in shipbuilding follows a pattern of successful industrial expansion, most notably in the automotive sector. The Tanger-Med port’s remarkable 18.8% growth in container traffic in 2024, contrasting with the stagnation at Spain’s Algeciras port, demonstrates Morocco’s growing prominence in global trade and logistics. Similarly, the automotive industry has flourished, with Renault and Stellantis (formerly PSA) exporting over 500,000 vehicles to the European Union in 2023, valued at €15.1 billion. This sector now accounts for 27% of Morocco’s exports and 16% of its GDP, surpassing traditional revenue sources like remittances and tourism. The government aims to leverage this model of strategic investment and industrial development to propel the maritime sector to similar heights.
Economic Opportunities & Future Prospects
Boosting Local Employment and Skills
The construction and operation of Africa’s largest shipyard are expected to generate significant employment opportunities in Casablanca and the surrounding regions. The facility will require a skilled workforce across various disciplines, including boilermaking, carpentry, composites, fitting, and general operations. This influx of jobs will contribute to local economic growth and provide valuable professional development opportunities for Moroccan citizens. Furthermore, the project has the potential to become a training center for maritime professions, collaborating with local vocational institutions to enhance the skills and expertise of the national workforce in the maritime industry.
Fostering Ancillary Industries
The establishment of a major shipyard will also stimulate the growth of numerous ancillary industries. These include port services, logistics, marine equipment suppliers, and maintenance service providers. The increased maritime activity in Casablanca will create a ripple effect, benefiting a wide range of businesses and contributing to the diversification of the local economy beyond traditional sectors. This interconnected industrial ecosystem will enhance Morocco’s overall economic resilience and competitiveness in the maritime domain.
Enhancing Regional Trade and Connectivity
By providing state-of-the-art facilities for vessel repair and maintenance, the Casablanca shipyard will enhance Morocco’s role as a crucial maritime hub connecting Africa and Europe. The ability to service a wide range of vessels, including commercial, military, and fishing fleets, will attract maritime traffic and strengthen Morocco’s position in regional and international trade networks. This development aligns with Morocco’s broader strategy to improve its port infrastructure and capitalize on its strategic geographic location at the crossroads of major shipping routes.
Possible Impact for Businesses Operating in Morocco:
Increased Demand for Local Suppliers: The construction and operation of the shipyard will create significant demand for local suppliers of materials, equipment, and services. This includes steel, paints, electrical components, safety gear, and logistical support, presenting new business opportunities for Moroccan companies.
Growth in Maritime Services Sector: Businesses involved in maritime services such as ship chandling, repairs, maintenance, and marine surveying will experience increased demand due to the presence of a large shipyard and the anticipated rise in vessel traffic.
Opportunities for Joint Ventures and Partnerships: The involvement of international players in the shipyard project may lead to opportunities for Moroccan businesses to form joint ventures or partnerships, facilitating technology transfer, knowledge sharing, and access to new markets.
Development of Specialized Skills and Training: The need for a skilled workforce at the shipyard will drive demand for specialized training programs in maritime trades. Businesses offering vocational training and skills development in relevant areas can capitalize on this need.
Enhanced Port Infrastructure and Logistics: The development of the shipyard is likely to be accompanied by improvements in the surrounding port infrastructure and logistics network, benefiting all businesses that rely on efficient maritime transport.
Attraction of Foreign Investment: The ambitious nature of the shipyard project can enhance Morocco’s attractiveness as an investment destination in the maritime sector, potentially leading to further foreign direct investment in related industries.
Boost to the Local Economy: The overall economic activity generated by the shipyard, including job creation and increased business opportunities, will have a positive impact on the local economy in Casablanca and potentially other regions.
Support for the Fishing Industry: The availability of a large, local shipyard will provide better and more cost-effective maintenance and repair services for Morocco’s fishing fleet, supporting the growth and sustainability of this sector.
Potential for Shipbuilding Activities: While initially focused on repair and maintenance, the tender allows bidders to include a shipbuilding component. This could pave the way for the development of a domestic shipbuilding industry in the future, creating new opportunities for related businesses.
Quote from an Official Source:
“We aim to capture part of the demand currently handled by the overcrowded shipyards in southern Europe and serve African vessels en route to Europe,” said Abdellatif Lhouaoui, ANP’s head of communications.
Lloyd’s List: A leading source of maritime news, analysis, and intelligence, providing comprehensive coverage of the global shipping industry. (https://www.lloydslistintelligence.com/)
The Maritime Executive: An online platform offering news, articles, and analysis on various aspects of the maritime sector, including shipbuilding, ports, and shipping. (https://www.maritime-executive.com/)
DNV (Det Norske Veritas): A reputable organization providing risk management and quality assurance services to the maritime industry, with insightful publications and reports on maritime trends and technologies. (https://www.dnv.com/maritime/)
Revolut’s Leap: Pan-African Potential and Disruption 🚀
As Revolut begins its expansion on the African continent by applying for a banking license in South Africa 🇿🇦, Morocco 🇲🇦 could well be the next step. Amine Mekkaoui, expert in fintech and digital transformation and Sales Director Africa & Middle East at PayTic, deciphers the opportunities this would represent for the financial ecosystem in Morocco but also the risks of disruption for historical players.
Revolut has officially filed an application for a license in South Africa 🇿🇦, confirming the growing interest of international neobanks in emerging African markets 🌍. A bold strategic choice in a context where several major banks (Barclays, BNP Paribas, Société Générale, Crédit Agricole, Standard Chartered…) have recently reduced their exposure to the continent due to lack of profitability 📉.
Morocco 🇲🇦, with a growing banking rate 📈, a structured regulator and a mature banking sector, could constitute a logical next step. The hypothetical arrival of a player like Revolut would entail several major systemic consequences.
First, it would profoundly redefine the banking experience 🏦. Revolut offers a fully digital customer journey 📱, instant visualization of expenses 📊, intelligent alerts 🔔 and dynamic virtual cards 💳. Faced with this, Moroccan banks, often still focused on physical branches and poorly ergonomic digital platforms, would be pushed to invest massively in redesigned and fluid omnichannel journeys.
Secondly, this arrival would exert significant pressure on local non-banking revenues 💰. Revolut’s aggressive offers (low-cost international transfers 💸, multi-currency cards without fees 💳, competitive currency exchange services 💱) directly affect the traditional sources of non-interest income of Moroccan banks, particularly commissions on international transactions and currency exchange fees. To retain their customers, especially younger generations sensitive to price transparency, banks would have to adapt their pricing policy, with a tangible risk of erosion of margins on their historical products.
Revolut in Morocco imminent ? 🤔
Furthermore, regulatory adaptation would be essential 📜. Bank Al-Maghrib would have to develop a specific framework adapted to hybrid models like that of Revolut, ensuring effective supervision in a fully digital environment. This would necessarily involve strengthening regulatory requirements in terms of KYC, AML and data protection in a branchless environment.
A catalyst for the Moroccan fintech ecosystem 🚀
Finally, the entry of Revolut could be a decisive catalyst for the Moroccan fintech ecosystem 💡. Faced with such an advanced technological competitor, local banks would be encouraged to strengthen their partnerships with local fintechs, stimulating the development of solutions such as open banking 🤝, account aggregation 🧮, or intelligent savings tools 🎯.
However, a major challenge would remain: technological asymmetry 💻. Faced with a neobank built on a cloud-native ☁️ and API-first architecture, Moroccan banks would have to imperatively accelerate the modernization of their historical IT systems, costly and not very agile, in order to guarantee their long-term competitiveness 🏆.
The arrival of Revolut in Morocco is probably only a matter of time. The real question remains: Who will be ready?
The Revolut Model: Banking Revolution at Your Fingertips
Revolut has established itself as a major player in fintech, disrupting traditional banking codes. Its model is based on a 100% digital customer experience, transparent pricing, and a diversified range of services, from multi-currency current accounts to budgeting tools.
The key advantages of the Revolut model are:
Optimized user experience: Intuitive mobile application, fast account opening, and real-time financial management.
Competitive pricing: Reduced fees on international transactions, currency exchange, and overseas withdrawals.
Diversified service offering: Multi-currency accounts, virtual cards, budgeting tools, stock and cryptocurrency trading.
Technological innovation: Cloud-native and API-first architecture, enabling rapid updates and the integration of new features.
International reach: Presence in many countries, facilitating cross-border transactions.
Revolut in Morocco: Challenges and Opportunities in a Changing Market
Revolut’s arrival in Morocco would represent both an opportunity and a challenge. Morocco, with its growing banking rate and mature banking sector, is an attractive market for neobanks. However, the non-convertibility of the Moroccan dirham could complicate Revolut’s service offering, particularly in terms of currency exchange.
To successfully establish itself in Morocco, Revolut will need to:
Adapt to local regulations, particularly regarding currency exchange and fund transfers.
Develop partnerships with local players to facilitate access to banking services.
Offer innovative solutions that meet the specific needs of the Moroccan market.
South Africa: A Launchpad for Revolut’s African Expansion
The choice of South Africa as the first step in Revolut’s African expansion is strategic. This country, with its dynamic economy and developed financial sector, offers a favorable environment for neobanks. Obtaining a banking license in South Africa would allow Revolut to consolidate its presence on the continent and serve as a springboard for its expansion into other African countries.
Competition and Perspectives: Africa, a Booming Market for Fintechs
Revolut is not the only fintech company interested in the African market. Other players, such as Wise, are also exploring the opportunities offered by the continent. In Morocco, traditional banks will need to accelerate their digital transformation to face competition from neobanks.
Beyond the scope: The neobank market in Africa
Sources with African Focus:
Research and Markets:
This platform provides market research reports, including those related to the fintech and neobanking sectors in Africa.
They often cover regional trends and growth projections.
Here is a link that provides information on the neobanking market, and information relating to growth in emerging markets.
Below are the 3 best neobanks and digital banks in Africa in 2024.
Eversend. Technically, a French startup, Eversend is now one of Africa’s biggest currency exchange platforms and an all-in-one borderless money app. Offered services include virtual USD cards, personal loans, individual and group savings, donations, cryptocurrency trading, crowdsourcing, and currency conversion. It is best for multi-currency accounts.
Kuda. Kuda is Nigeria’s first mobile-only bank licensed by the Central Bank. It offers personal and business virtual bank accounts and automatic savings. It is best for zero card maintenance fees and free transfers.
OurPass. Launched in 2021, OurPass is a neobank for businesses revolutionising commerce in Nigeria. Being a one-click checkout company, OurPass plans to become a global business neobank.
When researching this topic it is important to understand that the african market is very diverse, and growth rates can vary wildly from country to country.
While the tourism sector is on cloud nine, with record figures in 2024 and the first quarter of 2025, it could be in for a downturn for the rest of the year, particularly due to the loss of a significant portion of French customers, the leading country in terms of arrivals. This decline affects not only the French market, but might also affect other segments, following the French government’s decision to increase its TSBA solidarity tax on airline tickets (Taxe de Solidarité sur les Billets d’Avion) to the detriment of foreign tourist destinations.
It is with great regret that Ryanair announced the cancellation of its two routes between Marrakech and Porto, Portugal. This decision follows the doubling of airport taxes in France starting in March, unlike other European countries, which are instead seeking to reduce them. The lack of common legislation on the matter within the European Union makes these tax disparities even more problematic.
This situation also worries French tour operators, who schedule charter flights to Morocco and are already seeing their revenues plummet. Moroccan hotels, which largely depend on this clientele attracted by affordable stays, are also likely to suffer. The future of the sector will depend on the evolution of this tax decision and any potential compensation measures that could be implemented to mitigate its impact.
The French government has moved forward with substantial increases to the “Solidarity Tax” applied to airline tickets. This tax, designed to generate revenue, has seen a sharp rise in rates across various flight distances and travel classes. These increases went into effect on March 1st, 2025.
Varying Tax Rates:
The tax increase is not uniform. It varies significantly based on:
Travel class (economy, premium economy, business, first class).
This means that those travelling in business and first class on long-haul flights will bear the heaviest burden.
Impact on Private Jets:
In addition to commercial flights, France has also introduced a new passenger tax specifically targeting private jet flights. This measure is designed to increase revenue from private aviation.
This tax is also tiered, depending on distance flown, and the type of private aircraft used.
Retroactive Charges:
Some airlines, most notably Transavia, have implemented surcharges on tickets that were purchased before the new tax went into effect. This has caused frustration among consumers.
It is important to notice that not all airlines have taken this action.
Economic Impact:
The French government anticipates generating a significant amount of additional revenue from these tax increases. However, the aviation industry expresses concerns about the potential negative impacts on:
Airline competitiveness.
Regional airport viability.
Tourism.
Job losses.
Industry Concerns:
Competitiveness:
Airlines argue that these taxes will make French airports less competitive compared to other European hubs.
Regional Impact:
There are fears that the increased taxes will disproportionately affect regional airports, potentially leading to reduced connectivity.
Consumer Impact:
Passengers will face higher ticket prices, which could deter travel.
Lack of Consultation:
A large complaint from transport unions is that the tax increases have been implemented without proper consultation or impact studies.
Environmental Reasoning:
The French government has stated that part of the reasoning behind the tax increases is to help with environmental concerns. However, the aviation industry has pushed back on this, and argued that this will harm the industry.
The situation is evolving, and the long-term effects of these new taxes remain to be seen.
Overblown threat? A historic look at the UK’s APD
“The Air Passenger Duty (APD), for instance, is a common tax included on an air ticket for travellers flying from the UK[.] Since its introduction in 1994, APD has been a pivotal measure aimed at generating revenue for the UK government while pushing individuals to consider the environmental implications of their travel choices. This tax has incited extensive debate, as various stakeholders present compelling arguments for and against its continued implementation. “
Short-haul trips: Tourist demand is inelastic for APD below £37.505. As the current APD rate ranges from £13 to £26 for short-haul trips, it has a limited effect on tourist demand.
Medium- and long-haul trips: The current APD rate is more than £75, which is more than the critical value of £52.505, above which the tourist demand becomes highly elastic. This confirms that the current APD rate for medium- and long-haul trips may deter tourists from travelling overseas.
Short-haul and Long-haul: APD increases ticket prices, which dampens demand and negatively impacts connectivity at UK airports.
Ticket Prices: APD represents, on average, about 16% of ticket prices for short-haul destinations and 18% for long-haul destinations. This increases to 27% and 26% respectively during off-peak periods.
Morocco has taken a significant stride in its economic modernization with the nationwide launch of the online business registration platform, directentreprise.ma. This initiative, spearheaded by the Moroccan Office of Industrial and Commercial Property (OMPIC), marks a pivotal moment in the country’s efforts to foster a more dynamic and accessible business environment. The platform aims to simplify the often complex process of establishing a new company, reducing bureaucratic hurdles and empowering entrepreneurs across the nation.
Centralized Digital Hub for Business Creation
Directentreprise.ma serves as a centralized digital hub, allowing entrepreneurs to complete all necessary administrative procedures online. This eliminates the need for time-consuming and often frustrating in-person visits to multiple government offices. By integrating key institutions such as OMPIC, the Ministry of Justice, the General Secretariat of the Government, the General Directorate of Taxes (DGI), and the National Social Security Fund (CNSS), the platform provides a seamless and efficient experience for those looking to create a business online in Morocco.
“This digital platform is a cornerstone of our efforts to modernize Morocco’s business environment,”
Phased Implementation and National Expansion
The platform’s journey to nationwide implementation began with a pilot program in Rabat in February 2023. This initial phase allowed industry professionals, including notaries, lawyers, and accountants, to test the system and provide valuable feedback. Following the pilot’s success, the platform was gradually rolled out to major cities across Morocco in 2024. This strategic rollout to cities like Casablanca, Marrakech, Agadir, Tangier, Fès, Oujda, Laâyoune, Béni Mellal, and Dakhla ensured that the platform’s benefits will be accessible to a wider range of entrepreneurs before its full national launch.
Impact and Adoption Metrics
The platform’s adoption has been rapid and widespread. To date, over 12,000 businesses have been registered through directentreprise.ma, demonstrating its effectiveness and the strong demand for streamlined business registration processes. Furthermore, more than 2,400 professionals have registered to provide assistance to entrepreneurs, ensuring that users have access to the support they need to navigate the process.
“This digital platform is a cornerstone of our efforts to modernize Morocco’s business environment,” stated a high-ranking official from the Ministry of Industry and Trade. “By simplifying administrative procedures and leveraging technology, we are empowering entrepreneurs and driving economic growth. We are commited to making Morocco a competitive place for business.”
Legal and Regulatory Reforms Enabling Digital Transformation
The implementation of the online platform necessitated significant legal reforms, reflecting the Moroccan government’s commitment to creating a modern and efficient regulatory framework. Key among these reforms are Law 88.17, which establishes the framework for electronic business registration and support, and Law 89.17, which modernizes the Commercial Code. These legislative changes are part of a broader effort to modernize the administration and attract both domestic and foreign investment.
The success of this project is the result of close collaboration between OMPIC and various government bodies, including the Ministry of Industry and Trade, the Ministry of Justice, and the Ministry of Economy and Finance. This collaborative approach has been crucial in ensuring the platform’s smooth implementation and its alignment with the country’s broader economic development goals.
The initiative signifies Morocco’s commitment to leveraging technology to drive economic progress and create a more business-friendly environment.
Victim of it’s own success?
At the time of writing, directentreprise.ma website is down.
On March 21, 2025, the Maison Denise Masson in Marrakech will host a remarkable event—La Nuit d’Orient, a musical and poetic recital that brings together the rich cultural traditions of the Orient and the West. Starting at 9:30 p.m., this unique performance will feature a blend of French melodies, classical and modern Arabic poetry, and Arab-Andalusian music. The event promises to be a captivating experience that showcases the beauty of cultural exchange through music and art.
A Fusion of Music and Culture
La Nuit d’Orient will feature an exceptional lineup of artists: Jeff Cohen, a celebrated pianist; Nasser Houari, a skilled Moroccan lutenist; Mohamed El Mazzouji, an actor and artistic director; and a soprano, whose name will be revealed soon. The recital will present an eclectic mix of musical genres, seamlessly blending French classical music with Moroccan-Arabic musical traditions.
Performed in both French and Arabic, La Nuit d’Orient provides a rare opportunity to experience how music transcends language, connecting diverse audiences through its emotional depth and beauty. The recital aims to promote interculturality, bringing together audiences in a shared celebration of art.
By uniting French classical music and Arabic poetry, the event fosters a deeper understanding of the cultural ties that bind Morocco to the rest of the world. For foreign residents in Morocco, La Nuit d’Orient offers a valuable opportunity to experience local culture through a unique artistic lens. It allows expatriates to engage with Morocco’s cultural history while enjoying world-class performances that highlight the beauty of intercultural exchange.
A Unique Musical Experience
The recital promises a one-of-a-kind musical experience. The sounds of the piano, lute, and Arabic poetry will come together to create an atmospheric and deeply emotional evening. Arab-Andalusian music’s intricate melodies and rhythms will blend seamlessly with French classical compositions, offering an unforgettable auditory experience.
This fusion of musical styles highlights the beauty of cultural diversity and serves as a reminder of the shared human experience that unites us all, regardless of where we come from. The evening will feature songs and poetry that explore themes of love, beauty, and longing—universal topics that resonate with people from all backgrounds.
For foreign residents, La Nuit d’Orient is a chance to discover a new side of Morocco’s musical and poetic traditions, offering a deeper connection to the country’s rich cultural landscape.
Practical Information
La Nuit d’Orient will take place at the Maison Denise Masson in Marrakech, starting at 9:30 p.m. Tickets are available for purchase at the French Institute of Marrakech and on Guichet.com. General admission tickets are priced at 80 dirhams, while members and those under 26 years old can purchase tickets for 40 dirhams.
This event offers an excellent opportunity to experience a night of world-class performances that celebrate both French and Moroccan musical traditions.
The Moroccan skies are opening up to a new era of tourism, as the Ministry of Transport and Logistics has officially granted licenses to SKY BALLOONS and Mery Ballooning to operate non-scheduled public passenger air transport services using hot air balloons. This landmark decision marks a significant step in diversifying Morocco’s tourism offerings, providing visitors with an unparalleled perspective of the country’s diverse landscapes.
The licenses, issued with specific operational conditions including mandatory insurance coverage, signal the Moroccan government’s commitment to both innovation and safety. This move promises to elevate the tourism experience, allowing travelers to witness the breathtaking beauty of Morocco from a unique vantage point.
Possible Destinations: A Bird’s-Eye View
Morocco’s diverse topography lends itself perfectly to hot air ballooning. Imagine drifting gently above the ochre-colored landscapes of Marrakech, witnessing the sunrise paint the Atlas Mountains in hues of gold and pink, where the silence is broken only by the occasional whoosh of the burner.
Marrakech and the Palmeraie: This is perhaps the most iconic destination, offering stunning views of the city’s ancient walls, bustling souks, and the lush oasis of the Palmeraie. The contrast between the vibrant city and the serene palm groves is truly mesmerizing.
The Atlas Mountains: Witness the rugged beauty of the Atlas Mountains from a unique perspective. Soaring above the valleys and peaks provides a sense of awe and wonder.
These are just a few of the potential destinations, and as the industry develops, more regions are likely to be included, showcasing the full spectrum of Morocco’s natural wonders.
Key Facts: A New Chapter for Moroccan Tourism
The issuance of these licenses is more than just a regulatory formality; it signifies a strategic move to enhance Morocco’s tourism sector. Here are some key facts:
First-of-its-kind licenses: These are the first licenses specifically granted for public passenger air transport services using hot air balloons in Morocco.
Safety regulations: The licenses are subject to strict conditions, including mandatory insurance coverage, ensuring the safety of passengers.
Tourism diversification: This initiative diversifies Morocco’s tourism offerings, attracting a wider range of visitors.
Economic impact: The development of hot air balloon tourism is expected to create new jobs and stimulate local economies.
Unique experiences: Hot air balloon rides provide a unique and memorable way to experience Morocco’s landscapes.
Two companies licensed: SKY BALLOONS and Mery Ballooning are the first companies to receive these licenses.
Non-scheduled flights: The licenses are for non-scheduled flights, allowing for flexibility in operations.
Government oversight: The Ministry of Transport and Logistics will oversee the operations to ensure compliance with safety standards.
Environmental consideration: It is expected that companies will consider environmental impacts, and operate within guidelines designed to protect the natural beauty of the country.
Increased visibility: This initiative will likely increase international visibility for Moroccan tourism.
The introduction of hot air balloon tourism is poised to become a significant draw for visitors seeking unique and unforgettable experiences. With its stunning landscapes and favorable weather conditions, Morocco is ideally positioned to become a premier destination for hot air balloon enthusiasts.
The Moroccan government’s decision to issue these licenses signals a forward-thinking approach to tourism, balancing innovation with safety and sustainability. As the balloons take flight, they carry with them the promise of new adventures and breathtaking vistas, solidifying Morocco’s position as a leading tourism destination.
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