Morocco: Authorities extend coronavirus disease-related health State of Emergency through at least March 10 /update 45

Event

Due to COVID-19 activity, authorities have extended the nation's health State of Emergency (SoE) to March 10. The SoE grants the government authority to impose swift and proactive measures, such as curfews and travel restrictions. Authorities previously extended the country's existing 2100-0600 nightly curfew through at least Feb. 16 as part of efforts to stem the spread of COVID-19. All shops, malls, and restaurants across the country must close by 2000 while the curfew remains in effect. Nationwide, some businesses and services, including hotels, intercity transport, and restaurants, have reopened, albeit under certain operating capacity limitations. Authorities have banned private and public gatherings. Domestic flights and public transport, including train and bus services, are in operation.

For disease monitoring and tracking purposes, the Moroccan government has classified certain areas in the country as Zone-1 or Zone-2 regions based on the local level of COVID-19 activity. In Zone-1 regions, authorities have eased restrictions due to lower disease activity. Residents can leave their homes without special permits but must carry their national identity cards at all times. Certain commercial establishments, such as restaurants, cafes, hotels, beaches, and public baths, are allowed to reopen; all businesses must operate at 50-percent capacity and comply with the country's social distancing guidelines. Zone-2 areas are those where authorities have eased only some restrictions; individuals may not travel outside their municipality of residence without a special permit.

Authorities have suspended flights between Morocco and Australia, New Zealand, Ireland, and Brazil following the discovery of new coronavirus disease (COVID-19) variants as of Jan. 20. Authorities had also suspended flights between Morocco and the UK, Denmark, and South Africa due to similar concerns in December.

Most international passenger flights remain suspended until further notice; however, some airlines operate limited repatriation and charter flights. Emergency and cargo flights are exempt. Sea travel to Spain, Gibraltar, and France remains suspended. The border with the Spanish autonomous cities of Ceuta and Melilla, located on the northern coast of Africa, is closed until further notice.

Nevertheless, the country's borders are open to authorized business visitors, such as those persons with an invitation from a Moroccan company to travel to the country with confirmed hotel reservations. The invitation from a Moroccan company must include the traveler's full name and passport number, the purpose of the visit, and the length of stay in the country. Royal Air Maroc (AT) has announced that it will accommodate and allow foreigners who meet the government's requirements to fly with the airline.

Authorities could reimpose, extend, further ease, or otherwise amend any restrictions with little-to-no notice depending on disease activity over the coming weeks.

Resources

World Health Organization
Moroccan Ministry of Health (French)