Morocco Travel Ban Details
Morocco is set to implement a travel ban for visitors from the UK, Germany, and the Netherlands. This measure, in response to a surge in coronavirus cases in these nations, will take effect at midnight tonight and will remain in place “until further notice.”
The travel ban arises as the UK faces some of the highest COVID-19 case numbers globally, with approximately 50,000 new infections reported each day. In comparison, Morocco records an average of 473 new cases daily, highlighting the difference in infection rates.
Moreover, the timing of this ban is significant as it coincides with the peak travel season for UK holidaymakers. Morocco has been a favored destination for families and those seeking winter sun, particularly as the half-term break approaches for UK schools.
In response to the travel restrictions, Royal Air Maroc, Morocco’s national airline, announced on Twitter that it would permit passengers from the UK, Germany, and the Netherlands to alter their flight arrangements without charge to their desired destination or an alternative location before December 15. Airlines such as Ryanair, EasyJet, British Airways, and TUI have canceled flights from the UK to Morocco; however, they have not yet provided guidance for passengers impacted by these cancellations.
Travelers from countries with stable epidemiological situations will still be welcomed in Morocco. The country categorizes arrivals based on COVID-19 risks into two groups: A and B. Visitors from A-list countries, including the United States, must show proof of vaccination with accepted vaccines (Pfizer, Moderna, AstraZeneca, Covishield, Sinopharm, Sputnik, Sinovac, or Johnson & Johnson) to enter. On the other hand, individuals unable to be vaccinated, such as children or those with medical conditions, may present a negative COVID-19 test result instead.
Conversely, travelers from B-list countries must show both proof of vaccination and a negative test result. Furthermore, unvaccinated arrivals from B-list nations are required to undergo a 10-day quarantine in a government-approved hotel and take two COVID-19 tests during this period.
As of now, a state of emergency is in effect in Morocco, scheduled to last until at least October 31, with a nationwide curfew in place from 11 PM until 5 AM. For comprehensive information on traveling to Morocco amidst the pandemic, please refer to Visit Morocco.