In a recent update to its travel advisory for Morocco, the United States government has expressed significant concerns regarding the safety of urban buses in the country. The official guidance, published on August 13, 2026, by the U.S. State Department, highlights that travelers should be wary of using urban bus services, citing that the police response to crime reports may be inconsistent and inadequate.
The advisory specifically distinguishes between different modes of transportation within Morocco, categorizing trains as "generally safe" despite occasional incidents. In stark contrast, urban buses are labeled as "not considered safe," although the advisory does not elaborate on specific cities, bus networks, or incidents that have led to this assessment. This caution comes at a time when many Moroccan cities are still operating particularly outdated buses while a significant program to modernize public transport is underway.
Concerns Over Police Response to Crime
Furthermore, the U.S. State Department has raised issues regarding the handling of complaints filed by American citizens. It notes that the reaction of local police to reports of crimes against U.S. tourists can be "uneven." Language barriers may complicate the process of filing complaints, and the follow-up on such reports can be limited. However, the advisory recognizes that police may act more swiftly when a tourist is victimized in a well-frequented area.
Travelers are advised to request a police report whenever they experience a crime, as this documentation can be crucial for insurance claims. The advisory primarily warns about pickpocketing incidents occurring in souks, tourist attractions, and public transport. Although violent attacks against tourists are reported to be less frequent, they remain a potential risk, particularly at night or in isolated locations.
While the advisory is critical of urban bus safety and police response, it is less severe regarding taxi travel. Small taxis are generally deemed safe during the day, although travelers are encouraged to insist on using the meter. The advisory also touches upon issues of harassment and violence arising from tensions between traditional taxi drivers and those operating rideshare applications.
It is important to note that these recommendations do not amount to a prohibition on using buses or indicate a change in the overall security alert level for Morocco, which remains classified as a Level 2 destination. This classification calls for "increased caution," primarily due to the ongoing threat of terrorism. Nonetheless, these warnings illuminate specific concerns regarding the safety of urban transport and the efficacy of police support for American tourists.
As reported by bladi.net.
