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1.13 Million Travelers Defy Social Media Claims with 3.7% Surge

07:50

By: Dakir Madiha

Zoom

Moroccans living abroad are returning home in record numbers this summer, as Operation Marhaba 2025 delivers its strongest results yet, despite contrary claims circulating on social media. Official figures reveal significant growth in passenger and vehicle crossings, affirming the operation’s continued success.

Rising numbers surpass expectations

According to Spain’s Civil Protection, over 36,000 passengers and nearly 9,000 vehicles arrived in Morocco from Spanish ports on July 27 alone, marking one of the busiest weekends for the operation. Cumulatively, more than 1.13 million passengers and 280,000 vehicles have crossed into Morocco since the start of Marhaba 2025, representing a 3.7% and 3.8% increase, respectively, compared to the same period in 2024.

Spanish Interior Minister Fernando Grande-Marlaska, during his recent visit to the Port of Tarifa, highlighted an even larger year-on-year growth of over 5.6% in travelers and 6.9% in vehicles. Such trends indicate that the 2025 operation could surpass last year’s 3.4 million crossings, setting a new record since these figures began being tracked in 1986.

Viral misinformation vs. ground realities

Despite this success, misleading social media narratives have gained traction, falsely portraying empty ports and ferries. Viral videos on platforms like TikTok claim a significant drop in turnout by Moroccan expatriates. However, field reports from ports such as Motril contradict these assertions, with ferry bookings fully sold out and traffic up by 3% over the last weekend.

Experts warn against the dangers of such “digital pessimism,” where viral misinformation undermines public trust and morale. These narratives not only damage Morocco’s image but also risk weakening ties between the diaspora and their homeland.

A call for oversight

Operation Marhaba 2025, which Morocco launched earlier this summer, continues to strengthen its support for returning nationals. With over 520 weekly sailings and seamless coordination between Spanish and Moroccan authorities, the operation has consistently set benchmarks for efficiency and scale. Officials are now calling for tighter regulation to curb the spread of harmful misinformation that could adversely affect national interests.

A shared journey of connection

As the summer season progresses, millions of Moroccans living abroad reaffirm their bond with their homeland, defying false narratives and participating in what remains a remarkable logistical and cultural achievement.