Israelis Return to Morocco as Direct Flights Resume

Direct flights between Israel and Morocco have resumed, with three flights per week now operating between Tel Aviv and Marrakech. This marks a significant step in restoring tourism after a nearly three-year hiatus, exacerbated by the events of October 7th. Travel companies have restarted organized tours, and industry professionals anticipate approximately 20,000 Israelis will visit Morocco by the end of the year.

While current numbers are lower than the pre-war peak of 100,000 visitors, initial demand is strong, with existing flights filling up quickly. Many Israelis are also traveling to Morocco via intermediate destinations. "We see demand, and we expect it to grow," stated Yishai Mold, head of the Active department at Issta Sport Group.

For tour guides like Uri Attias, whose parents were born in Morocco, the resumption of travel is deeply personal. Attias, who speaks Moroccan Arabic fluently and has led tours for over three decades, describes returning to Morocco as coming home. He emphasizes an immersive travel experience, connecting groups with local families, schools, and villages, sharing meals and participating in daily life.

Moroccan businesses, including kosher restaurants, hotels, jeep tour companies, drivers, and guides, are eagerly awaiting the return of Israeli tourists, for whom this tourism was a vital source of income. "There are many businesses in Morocco that are really waiting for Israeli tourists. It's their oxygen source," Attias noted.

Beyond traditional sightseeing, tours now offer diverse experiences, including cycling through the Atlas Mountains, exploring villages, and engaging with different lifestyles. The appeal of Morocco extends to those seeking nature, cultural immersion, and personal heritage trips, connecting with ancestral villages and historical sites.