Morocco: Authorities to extend COVID-19-related health state of emergency through Dec. 31 /update 84

Event

Authorities in Morocco have extended the country's health state of emergency (SoE) through Dec. 31 as part of their efforts to combat the spread of COVID-19 and its variants. The SoE grants the government authority to impose proactive measures, including curfews and travel restrictions. No curfew measures or restrictions on interstate or intercity travel are in effect as of early December.

International Travel Restrictions
All direct flights to Morocco remain suspended due to concerns over the newly discovered Omicron strain of the virus. The measure entered into effect for a period of two weeks starting at 23:59 Nov. 29. The government in Rabat made the move two days after suspending all flights from South Africa, Botswana, Namibia, Lesotho, Eswatini, Mozambique, and Zimbabwe and barring those countries' nationals from entering Morocco via other means.

Maritime travel with Spain and France remains suspended.

Domestic Measures
Several domestic restrictions remain in place nationwide. Proof of vaccination (i.e., a vaccine pass) is required to enter most public and private spaces, including hotels, restaurants, cafes, gyms, public baths, grocery stores, and public transport. Public baths, public swimming pools, and sports facilities are limited to operating at 50 percent capacity. Public and private gatherings are limited to 50 people. Wearing a facemask is mandatory in public spaces. Failure to adhere to COVID-19-related domestic restrictions may result in a fine.

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.

Resources

World Health Organization
Moroccan Ministry of Health (French)