Vueling introduces new Seville–Essaouira route to enhance tourism ties

Spanish low-cost airline Vueling has unveiled plans for a new international route linking Seville, Spain, to Essaouira, Morocco, set to commence on October 4, 2025. This initiative aims to bolster regional connectivity and provide travelers with affordable access to Essaouira, a UNESCO World Heritage site known for its rich history and cultural vibrancy.

The inaugural flight will operate weekly on Saturdays, departing Seville at 8:20 a.m. local time and arriving in Essaouira at 9:00 a.m. Moroccan time, with a flight duration of approximately 1 hour and 40 minutes. This new connection is part of Vueling’s strategy to expand its international network from Seville Airport, a strategic hub for the airline.

Essaouira, located on Morocco's Atlantic coast, boasts a historic port, well-preserved architecture, and a dynamic musical culture, alongside its expansive beaches, ideal for surfing and water sports. The launch of this route is anticipated to significantly boost tourism and strengthen cultural and economic ties between southern Spain and Morocco.

Founded in 2004 and headquartered near Barcelona, Vueling services nearly 100 destinations across Europe and North Africa. The addition of the Seville–Essaouira route reflects the airline's commitment to enhancing travel options through secondary airports and fostering cross-Mediterranean connectivity.

According to Ridouane Khan, President of the Regional Tourism Council of Essaouira, the city welcomed over one million tourists in 2024. He highlighted that Essaouira achieved a record of more than three million overnight stays in classified accommodations last year, a success bolstered by the informal tourism sector, including local vacation rentals.

The year 2024 marked a pivotal period for Essaouira's tourism industry, transitioning from seasonal trends to a year-round destination, further underscoring the importance of this new flight route in promoting sustained economic growth and cultural exchange.