On Monday, August 10, 2026, the 12th edition of the Moroccan World Festival commenced in Ouarzazate, under the theme "Moroccans Abroad at the Heart of Morocco's 2030 Initiatives." This vibrant festival, organized by the Association for Renewable Energy, Development, and Culture in collaboration with the Drâa-Tafilalet Regional Council and the local government of Ouarzazate, will run until August 16. It serves as a platform for exchanging ideas on the crucial role that the Moroccan diaspora plays in supporting Morocco's major projects set for the horizon of 2030.
The opening ceremony was presided over by Abdullah Jahz, the governor of the Ouarzazate region, held at the city’s conference palace. The event drew a diverse audience, including local officials, elected representatives, and members of the Moroccan community residing abroad. In his speech, Jahz emphasized the relevance of this year’s theme, highlighting the significant contributions of the Moroccan diaspora in advancing the strategic projects initiated under the visionary leadership of His Majesty King Mohammed VI.
Additionally, Jahz noted that the National Day for Moroccans Living Abroad, celebrated annually on August 10, reflects the continuous attention that King Mohammed VI has given to the Moroccan diaspora, stressing the importance of strengthening their ties with their homeland and enhancing their contributions to national development. He pointed out that the expertise of Moroccans abroad represents a true asset for Morocco, considering their academic and professional backgrounds, along with the skills they have acquired across various economic, technological, industrial, cultural, and social fields.
Looking towards the major sporting events that Morocco will host in 2030, Jahz remarked on the necessity of mobilizing talents and skills from both within the kingdom and abroad, which is essential for the success of strategic initiatives and bolstering the competitiveness of the national economy, as well as solidifying Morocco’s position as a regional investment hub.
Furthermore, the governor invited Moroccans residing abroad to continue contributing to this developmental dynamic by supporting investment, transferring knowledge, fostering economic and scientific partnerships, and endorsing developmental initiatives. This aligns with the royal vision that sees Moroccans worldwide as key partners in building the Morocco of tomorrow.
In a related note, Jahz highlighted the numerous natural, tourist, cinematic, and energy resources that the Ouarzazate region boasts, making it an ideal area for high-value investments and promising economic opportunities for the Moroccan diaspora.
Samia Aznak, the president of the Association for Renewable Energy, Development, and Culture, reiterated that the National Day for Moroccans Living Abroad serves as an opportunity to showcase the contributions of the diaspora to the development process and to strengthen their bonds with the Kingdom. She added that this occasion also allows for the appreciation of their contributions across various fields and the opening of new avenues for their involvement in significant developmental projects being realized in the country.
Aznak also underlined the role played by Moroccans abroad in the economic and social development within the Drâa-Tafilalet region through their investments and financial remittances, emphasizing their contributions to promoting the region and its heritage in their countries of residence.
The opening ceremony also featured the presentation of the "Ouarzazate Migration Award" for 2026 to Nour Eddine Sina, a Moroccan entrepreneur residing in France, in recognition of his professional journey abroad, as well as to Bernard Yves Jean, a French investor and owner of a tourism establishment in Ouarzazate, in acknowledgment of his engagement in the local economy and community.
Additionally, to mark the beginning of this edition, an exhibition showcasing local products was inaugurated, allowing visitors and members of the Moroccan diaspora to explore the variety and richness of the region’s offerings.
This year’s edition of the Moroccan World Festival in Ouarzazate aims to strengthen the connections between Moroccans living abroad and their homeland, creating a space for dialogue and exchange that enables the diaspora to engage in local and regional development initiatives, and to support their investment and community projects in a manner that serves the development of the region.
The program for this year includes seminars, training workshops, and artistic evenings focused on migration issues and ways to enhance the ties between the Moroccan diaspora and their homeland.
As reported by maroc.ma.
