Morocco Country Report

The Kingdom of Morocco is a constitutional monarchy located at the northwestern tip of Africa. The Rif Mountains run through the north and the Atlas Mountains through the center of the country. Morocco has a rich culture of Arab, European, Berber, and African influences. The country has a democratically-elected legislature, but ultimate authority lies with the monarchy, and the king enjoys vast political powers. Morocco is relatively stable, although there are lingering pressures from Islamist and pro-democracy movements. However, the regime has sought to impose its version of moderate Islam, which has long been adopted by Moroccans as a form of wasatiyya, or 'middle-ground', which calls for a rejection of violence and extremism.

There is concern over the terrorist threat, although this is relatively low. Morocco has established a robust anti-terror framework, supplemented by the high capabilities of its security forces. Periodic arrests of suspected militants are regularly conducted, and terror plots foiled. Although no significant incident has taken place since the 2011 Marrakesh bombing, isolated attacks in the country have occurred. The impasse over the territory of Western Sahara remains a significant source of instability and tension with neighboring Algeria. Periodic clashes between militias and armed forces can occur.

The main threat to travelers or those in country is from petty crime, such as pickpocketing, vehicle break-ins, theft, and fraud. Violent crime is rare but cannot be ruled out. The majority of criminal activity affecting visitors occurs in built-up tourist areas with high traffic density.

Infrastructure in urban and tourist areas is reasonably well-developed by regional standards, although it can be very poor in rural areas, and the road safety record is also cause for concern, with a high rate of road traffic incidents. Seasonal weather can also significantly impact driving conditions on primary and secondary roads.

Morocco is considered to be one of the most moderate Muslim states and actively encourages foreign investment, although there are serious concerns over rampant corruption that appears to be worsening over time. Widespread unemployment, poverty, low education rates, and high illiteracy rates continue to be sources of instability and regularly lead to unrest.

National infrastructure and medical services are generally well maintained in the main cities but may lead to safety concerns in mountainous and remote regions. The country is at risk from earthquakes as it is located in a seismically active area.

The most prominent threat to travelers is petty crime, such as pick-pocketing and bag snatching. More serious crimes can occur, and there have been incidents of knife attacks in tourist areas. The tourism industry is an important pillar of the economy and is, therefore, a potential target for attack. Moroccan authorities have a robust anti-terrorism program and often conduct operations, and arrest and foil plots by suspected extremists, highlighting the capabilities of security forces and the potential militant presence. There have been cases of sexual harassment and assault against foreign women.

Tensions with the Polisario Front (PF) - the movement seeking independence for the disputed Western Sahara territory - and with its neighbor Algeria periodically escalate, although outright conflict is unlikely. Civil unrest occurs regularly and is typically low-level and peaceful. However, violent clashes can occur between demonstrators and police. There is also a growing concern over the number of African migrants heading to Spain from Moroccan shores, resulting in hundreds of deaths.

There is no major concern over air travel in Morocco. The ports are considered relatively efficient.

The condition of rural roads varies from good to poor. Travel between cities, especially at night, may be dangerous due to poor or no lighting and speeding drivers.

Utilities are good, and there is 100% access to electricity. National infrastructure and medical services are generally well maintained in the main cities but may lead to safety concerns in mountainous and remote regions.

The country is considered an attractive target for cyberattacks. Its defenses against such an attack are thought to be weak.

The climate of Morocco varies widely, from Mediterranean along the northern coastline to desert regions in the east and south. The climate can be a source of discomfort, particularly in the desert and during the summer months. Sandstorms occur periodically and can interrupt land and air travel. Landmines are widespread particularly along the Western Sahara Berm which separates Moroccan-controlled and Polisario-controlled areas in Western Sahara and extends into southern Morocco. Earthquakes occur periodically and can inflict damage, particularly in the north. Flooding occurs regularly during the rainy season between November and March, with mountainous areas and wadis (dry river beds) particularly susceptible to flash flooding.

Travelers’ diarrhea is the most common ailment among travelers. Adequate medical care is available in major cities; however, many facilities do not meet Western standards and specialized treatment may not be available. Most ordinary prescription drugs and over-the-counter medicines are widely available, although specialized prescriptions may be difficult to fill, and availability of medicines in rural areas is unreliable. Tap water is not safe to drink.

The government and the political situation are stable. Morocco is a constitutional monarchy, and a new constitution was enacted in July 2011 in response to growing unrest during the Arab Spring, with the apparent emphasis on shifting the power base to the elected legislature from the monarchy. The last general elections took place in September 2021. Morocco has used a policy of quick but limited concessions to appease protesters and de-escalate unrest over ongoing socioeconomic issues. However, many civil liberties continue to be constrained as the political power remains with the King rather than elected parties.

The Moroccan national police force, the General Directorate for National Security (DGSN), is relatively well-trained and professional. However, a lack of resources can undermine their ability to respond effectively to emergencies.

Corruption is endemic in most sectors, which may affect travelers being solicited for bribes. The cultures of patronage, nepotism and wasta (use of connections) are present, although anti-corruption reforms and legislation are in place to combat the issue.