Operation Marhaba 2026 Concludes with Record Attendance
Operation Marhaba 2026 officially wrapped up at midnight on Tuesday, marking the end of an extensive three-month initiative aimed at welcoming Moroccans living abroad. The effort, overseen by the Mohammed V Foundation for Solidarity under the auspices of King Mohammed VI, successfully received an impressive 4,137,594 Moroccan expatriates, representing a 1.8% increase compared to the previous year's operation.
Running from June 10 to September 15, this operation relied on a comprehensive network comprising 26 reception points both in Morocco and across Europe. The foundation effectively coordinated the initiative through a central office, supported by 1,134 social workers and a dedicated team of 236 healthcare professionals and temporary personnel. This robust setup ensured a continuous presence at critical transit locations, which facilitated the smooth flow of arrivals and departures, even during peak travel days that saw close to 80,000 arrivals and over 87,000 departures.
Humanitarian Support and Emergency Interventions
In addition to managing travel logistics, the foundation also prioritized humanitarian support, directly assisting 66,993 members of the Moroccan community. Among these cases, 14,089 involved various administrative, customs, and legal procedures, while 787 individuals required transportation aid. Medical assistance was provided to 8,495 people, addressing urgent needs ranging from first aid to hospitalization for serious injuries, lost documentation, and road accidents.
Several notable interventions underscored the foundation's commitment to ensuring safety and support. In July, for instance, the organization provided critical care to 25 victims of a bus accident on the Tangier-Kénitra highway, transferring five seriously injured passengers for extended medical treatment. August saw the successful organization of transport for nearly 1,000 stranded passengers at the port of Algeciras, alongside efforts to assist 25 Moroccan vehicles that faced docking issues. In a heartbreaking incident in September, the foundation supported families affected by a tragic accident at Algeciras port, offering help with administrative processes and facilitating the transfer of remains.
Omar Moussa Abdellah, a project head at the foundation, emphasized that this year's operation proceeded without major incidents. In challenging situations, the teams quickly mobilized to reassure families, guide them, and streamline the necessary steps for continuing their journeys. The departure phase, which saw the largest movement of travelers from mid-August onward, was noted for its efficiency, particularly at the busy Tanger Med transit point. Reports indicated that travelers experienced smooth circulation and expressed satisfaction with their stay in Morocco, filled with family connections and cherished memories, all while appreciating the clear directions and guidance that ensured a calm boarding process.
As reported by moroccoworldnews.com.
