Morocco: Authorities suspend flights from several countries as of Feb. 23 to combat COVID-19 /update 48

Event

Authorities in Morocco have suspended all flights to and from several countries as of Feb. 23 as part of the nation's efforts to curb the spread of newly emerged variants of COVID-19. The government in Rabat initially announced early Feb. 22 that the directive would apply only to the Netherlands, Switzerland, Germany, and Turkey, but subsequently added Austria, Portugal, Sweden, the Czech Republic, and Ukraine to the list. The measure, which will remain in place for a period of 15 days, also bans entry by passengers from those countries who are traveling through other countries. In addition, all flights between Morocco and Australia, Brazil, Denmark, Ireland, New Zealand, South Africa, and the UK remain suspended due to the discovery of new COVID-19 variants in those countries.

Most other 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.

Moroccan authorities previously extended their nation's health state of emergency (SoE) through at least March 10 due to COVID-19 activity. The SoE grants the government authority to impose swift and proactive measures, such as curfews and travel restrictions. Authorities have also extended the country's existing 2100-0600 nightly curfew through at least March 2. 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, are allowed to open, 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 municipalities of residence without a special permit.

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

Advice

Follow all official instructions. Abide by national health and safety measures. Reconfirm all business appointments and travel arrangements. Consider delaying traveling if experiencing symptoms associated with COVID-19, as they may prompt increased scrutiny and delays. Liaise with trusted contacts for further updates and guidance. Ensure contingency plans account for further disruptive measures or extensions of current restrictions. Reconsider and reconfirm nonemergency health appointments. Plan for queues and delays at available shopping centers.

Resources

World Health Organization
Moroccan Ministry of Health (French)