Morocco: Authorities extend nationwide 2100-0600 nightly curfew through Feb. 3 due to COVID-19 activity /update 42

Event

Authorities in Morocco have extended the country's existing 2100-0600 nightly curfew through at least Feb. 3 as part of efforts to stem the spread of coronavirus disease (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.

Authorities have also extended the nation's health state of emergency (SoE) until Feb. 10. The SoE grants the government authority to impose swift and proactive measures, such as curfews and travel restrictions. 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.

Flights between Morocco and the UK remain suspended until further notice due to concerns regarding the spread of a newly discovered COVID-19 strain. The flight suspension, which initially went into effect in December 2020, comes amid a number of targeted travel bans implemented by several other countries in reaction to the new disease variant, which was initially discovered in the southeast of England.

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.

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.

Emphasize basic health precautions, especially frequent handwashing with soap and water, or an alcohol-based hand sanitizer if soap and water are unavailable. Practice good coughing/sneezing etiquette (i.e., covering coughs and sneezes with disposable tissue, maintaining distance from others, and washing hands). There is no evidence that the influenza vaccine, antibiotics, or antiviral medications will prevent this disease, highlighting the importance of diligent basic health precautions.

Resources

World Health Organization
Moroccan Ministry of Health (French)