Israelis Return to Morocco as Direct Flights Resume

Israeli tourists are gradually returning to Morocco following a nearly three-year hiatus in direct flights after October 7. Direct flights between Tel Aviv and Marrakech were reinstated in August, with Israeli airlines now operating three weekly services, according to Mako. While the current volume of travelers is modest, primarily due to limited flight capacity, an estimated 20,000 Israelis are expected to visit by the end of the year under the current schedule. Prior to the conflict, Morocco hosted approximately 100,000 Israeli tourists annually.

Initial sales indicate strong Israeli interest in the destination. Ishai Mold, head of active holidays at the Issta Sport group, reported that available seats on direct flights are selling out quickly. Some travelers are opting for indirect routes through other countries. "We see demand and expect it to grow," Mold stated.

For tour guide Uri Atias, the resumption of travel holds personal significance. Born to Moroccan immigrants and raised speaking the Moroccan Arabic dialect, he has led groups in the country for over 30 years. He is scheduled to lead a group from Eco Tiulei Seta in April, offering tours beyond Marrakech and Casablanca to include villages, families, schools, and meals with local acquaintances, featuring traditional dishes like couscous and tagine, and Moroccan tea.

Atias maintains strong relationships with locals, both Jewish and Muslim, who invite him to family celebrations, weddings, and Ramadan events. The return of Israeli tourism is also anticipated in Morocco, where an infrastructure of kosher restaurants, hotels, tour operators, drivers, and guides had developed prior to the conflict. The cessation of Israeli tourism significantly impacted the income of some businesses, with certain companies previously conducting multiple jeep tours per month for Israelis and now looking forward to the return of organized groups. Issta Activa is offering cycling tours through cities, villages, and the Atlas Mountains. Mold noted that Morocco appeals to a diverse range of travelers, from nature enthusiasts and those seeking local culture to individuals visiting ancestral villages or the graves of rabbis.