Operation Marhaba: 700,000 Moroccans living abroad have already returned
Operation Marhaba 2026 is off to a strong start. Since its launch on 10 June, 704,714 Moroccans living abroad (MREs) have returned to the Kingdom, representing an increase of 3.04 per cent compared with the same period in 2025, according to the latest figures published by the Mohammed V Foundation for Solidarity.
This increase confirms the attachment of Moroccans living abroad to their country of origin and reflects the growing success of this annual operation, which facilitates the return of millions of MREs every summer. Marhaba remains one of the largest traveller reception schemes in the Mediterranean.
Airports remain the main point of entry for Moroccans living abroad
Between 10 and 30 June, airports welcomed 417,611 travellers, representing 59.25 per cent of all arrivals recorded since the start of the operation.
Casablanca’s Mohammed V Airport retains its position as the Kingdom’s leading hub, accounting for 25.45 per cent of arrivals by Moroccans from abroad. It continues to play a central role in the reception arrangements put in place during the summer period.
Moroccan ports, for their part, recorded 287,103 passenger crossings, representing just over 40 per cent of total traffic. Thanks to its numerous links with European ports, Tangier Med has once again confirmed its status as the main maritime gateway for Moroccans living abroad.
Over 9,000 Moroccans supported
Beyond the visitor figures, the Mohammed V Foundation for Solidarity is continuing its grassroots work with Moroccans around the world. During the first twenty days of the operation, 9,118 people received support at the various reception centres set up in Morocco and abroad.
The teams on the ground provide administrative, legal and medical assistance, whilst facilitating customs procedures and guiding travellers to ensure their return takes place under the best possible conditions.
Emergency situations have also required rapid intervention. In particular, the Foundation arranged the medical evacuation of a Moroccan national with suspected appendicitis, provided assistance to a Moroccan living abroad who had lost the keys to their vehicle in Spain, and organised medical care for a passenger injured on board a ferry travelling from Europe to Morocco.
At Tangier-Ibn Battouta Airport, teams also assisted a traveller suffering from complications related to diabetes and a heart condition, illustrating the importance of the medical support system deployed throughout the operation.
A system in operation throughout the summer
Under the High Patronage of King Mohammed VI, the 26th edition of Operation Marhaba is running 26 reception centres, including 20 in Morocco and six in France, Spain and Italy – the main countries of residence for the Moroccan community abroad.
These centres will remain open throughout the summer season to welcome, guide and support Moroccans living abroad. With visitor numbers already on the rise in the first few weeks, the authorities expect arrivals to increase further during July, a month traditionally marked by a peak in the return of Moroccans living abroad.
Morocco: extreme heat and thunderstorms in several regions
Morocco is set to experience a spell of hot weather characterised by a sharp rise in temperatures. The Directorate-General of Meteorology (DGM) has issued an orange alert warning of a heatwave, accompanied locally by thunderstorms, hailstorms and strong gusts of wind in several provinces of the Kingdom.
A heatwave reaching up to 46°C
According to the DGM, temperatures ranging from 41 to 46°C are expected from Thursday to Sunday in the provinces of Kenitra, Taounate, Meknes, Fez, Moulay Yacoub, Khémisset, Sidi Kacem, Sidi Slimane, Khouribga, Fquih Ben Salah, Settat, Youssoufia, Rehamna, El Kelâa des Sraghna, Chichaoua, Marrakesh, Taroudant, Zagora, Tata, Assa-Zag, Boujdour, Es-Semara, Aousserd and Oued Ed-Dahab.
The Directorate-General of Meteorology is also forecasting temperatures ranging from 38 to 41°C in the provinces of Larache, Salé, Rabat, Skhirate-Témara, Nouaceur, Casablanca, Mohammedia, Berrechid, Benslimane, Médiouna, El Jadida, Sidi Bennour, Essaouira, Safi, Ouezzane, Khénifra, Béni Mellal, El Hajeb, Ifrane and Sefrou.
Thunderstorms with hail expected on Thursday
Alongside this heatwave, thunderstorms, sometimes accompanied by hail and strong gusts of wind, are forecast for this Thursday between 1.00 pm and 11.00 pm in the provinces of Chichaoua and Taroudant.
The DGM forecasts rainfall totals of between 15 and 25 mm, which may be accompanied by locally heavy thunderstorms.
In light of these weather conditions, the authorities advise residents in the affected areas to exercise caution, particularly when travelling, and to avoid prolonged exposure to the sun during the hottest part of the day.
Marrakech celebrates the 55th anniversary of the National Festival of Folk Arts
Marrakech is set to come alive to the rhythm of Moroccan traditions. From 2 to 6 July 2026, the ochre city will host the 55th edition of the National Festival of Folk Arts (FNAP), one of the Kingdom’s oldest cultural events. Under the theme ‘‘ Folk Arts: Treasures of Yesterday and Today”, this year’s festival will celebrate Morocco’s intangible cultural heritage through performances, songs and dances from the country’s various regions.
Organised by the Le Grand Atlas Association, in partnership with the Ministry of Youth, Culture and Communication and several local institutions, the Festival continues the mission it has upheld since its creation in 1960: to preserve, pass on and promote Moroccan folk arts to new generations.
El Badiâ Palace regains its iconic role
One of the highlights of this 55th edition will be the return of the grand show at El Badiâ Palace. An iconic landmark of Marrakech, built in the 16th century during the reign of Sultan Ahmed El Mansour, this historic venue is once again taking on its role as the Festival’s main stage.
Against this backdrop steeped in history, folk troupes from different regions of the Kingdom will bring to life the traditional songs, music and dances that form the rich tapestry of Morocco’s cultural heritage.
Two new initiatives to showcase Morocco’s cultural heritage
The 2026 edition features two major new initiatives.
The first is a unique tribute dedicated to women’s Aïta, embodied by the singer Zina Daoudia. Through this initiative, the Festival highlights one of the most iconic musical expressions of Moroccan heritage and pays tribute to the vital role played by women in passing on this heritage.
The second new feature is the opening of the Medersa Ben Youssef as a new performance venue. For the first time, this historic monument will host Festival performances. Singer Nabila Maan will give a performance there that will create a dialogue between architectural heritage and Moroccan music, before other artists take the stage during the five days of festivities.
Marrakech, capital of living heritage
A city intrinsically linked to the National Festival of Popular Arts, Marrakech provides a natural setting for celebrating the Kingdom’s cultural diversity. Its famous Jemaâ El-Fna Square, listed by UNESCO as part of the Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity, symbolises in itself the richness of Moroccan oral traditions.
For five days, folk troupes, musicians, dancers and artists from all regions of Morocco will take the audience on a journey into the heart of folk arts, demonstrating the vitality of a heritage that is still very much alive.
A legacy at the heart of Moroccan identity
For Mohamed Knidiri, president of the Le Grand Atlas Association, the festival’s longevity illustrates, above all, a constant commitment to preserving Moroccan culture.
“Fifty-five editions represent a loyalty that goes far beyond any one of us. This long history is not a trophy, but a responsibility. If the magic still works, it is because we have never treated these arts as a memory to be preserved, but as a movement to be nurtured. A nation that dances is a nation that remembers it is alive,” he emphasises.
Through this 55th edition, the National Festival of Popular Arts reaffirms its role as guardian of Morocco’s intangible heritage. More than just a cultural event, it celebrates a living memory that continues to be passed on, renewed and shared, showcasing the richness of the Kingdom’s traditions, with Marrakech serving as a showcase for this cultural identity.
Transfer news: Ayyoub Bouaddi on Manchester City’s radar
Ayyoub Bouaddi’s performances for the Atlas Lions at the 2026 World Cup continue to be the talk of the town. Having enjoyed a remarkable tournament with Morocco, the young LOSC midfielder is now attracting the attention of Europe’s biggest clubs. According to Fabrizio Romano, Manchester City have already begun talks regarding a potential transfer.
At just 18 years of age, the Moroccan international has established himself as one of the major revelations of this World Cup. Under the guidance of Mohamed Ouahbi, Bouaddi has delivered a string of top-class performances thanks to his technical ability, vision and maturity – qualities that have convinced several European heavyweights to follow his progress very closely.
Manchester City take the lead
According to Fabrizio Romano, Manchester City have taken the lead in this matter by initiating the first talks regarding the signing of the Moroccan midfielder. The Italian journalist notes that four clubs are currently monitoring the player, whilst Paris Saint-Germain have not yet stepped up their pursuit, as their priorities lie with other targets.
The Sky Blues management see Ayyoub Bouaddi as a player with a bright future who can fit into their long-term plans. His performances for Morocco and for LOSC have only served to boost his appeal in the transfer market.
A loan move to LOSC under consideration
Manchester City are also exploring an arrangement that could satisfy all parties. The English club are reportedly considering signing the ‘Lion of the Atlas’ as early as this summer, before allowing him to continue his development at Lille for a further season on loan.
This scenario would allow the young Moroccan to continue gaining experience in Ligue 1 and the Champions League before joining the Manchester City squad on a permanent basis in the summer of 2027. It is a solution that would also suit the Lille management, who are keen to keep their rising star for one more season.
Lille hopes for a record fee
Under contract with LOSC until June 2029, Ayyoub Bouaddi is now regarded as one of the most promising young players in European football. His market value is estimated at 50 million euros by Transfermarkt.
However, several specialist media outlets report that Lille are hoping to secure a fee of close to 100 million euros to let their star player leave. This sum reflects the meteoric rise of the Moroccan midfielder, whose performances for the Atlas Lions and at club level continue to impress Europe’s top clubs.
Transfer news: Ismael Saibari joins Bayern Munich
Moroccan football has secured a place for one of its talents at another European giant. Moroccan international Ismael Saibari has officially signed for Bayern Munich, leaving PSV Eindhoven after several successful seasons in the Netherlands. The lion of the Atlas has signed a five-year contract with the Bavarian club.
PSV Eindhoven announced the departure of their Moroccan midfielder on Wednesday. In their statement, the Dutch champions described it as the biggest transfer in their history. Whilst the fee has not been officially disclosed, several specialist media outlets estimate the deal to be worth around 55 million euros.
Transfer news: Saibari bids farewell to PSV
Before joining the Bundesliga, Ismael Saibari delivered an emotional message to the club that enabled him to flourish at the highest level. The Moroccan made no secret of his attachment to PSV, where he established himself as one of the best midfielders in the Dutch league.
“It’s an emotional departure. Bayern Munich is an exceptional club and I’m very happy to be continuing my career there. At the same time, I’m going to miss so many people at PSV enormously. Over the years, Eindhoven has become my home. I’ve experienced unforgettable moments there and been given extraordinary opportunities. This club has helped me become the man and the footballer I am today. I would like to extend my warmest thanks to everyone who has been by my side – from the staff to the supporters – for their unwavering support. Even though I’m leaving, you’ll certainly see me again,” said the Lion of the Atlas.
PSV pays tribute to the Moroccan international
PSV’s Director of Football Operations, Earnest Stewart, praised Ismael Saibari’s career and his development at the Dutch club.
“Ismael is a wonderful example of what talent, character and hard work can achieve. We have watched him grow from a promising young player into an indispensable figure at the very highest level. His contribution to our successes has been considerable, as has his personal development. It is never easy to say goodbye to a player who has become so important to PSV, but this transfer is fully in line with his ambitions and the journey we have built together. We are proud of Ismael and of the fact that PSV is once again sending a player to one of the world’s top clubs. We wish him every success in this new stage of his career,’’ he emphasised.
By joining Bayern Munich, Ismael Saibari is starting a new chapter in his career and underlines the growing influence of Moroccan internationals at Europe’s top clubs. This transfer is also a source of pride for Moroccan football, which continues to see its talents make their mark at the very highest level.
2026 World Cup: Hakimi, Saibari and Bouaddi put Morocco in the spotlight on Instagram
The Atlas Lions performances at the 2026 World Cup continue to be the talk of the town, both on the pitch and on social media. Buoyed by Morocco’s run in the tournament, several Moroccan internationals are among the players who have seen the biggest increases in Instagram followers since the start of the tournament, confirming the global enthusiasm surrounding the national team.
According to a study published by the specialist website MyBettingSites, Achraf Hakimi, Ismael Saibari and Ayyoub Bouaddi are among the footballers who have gained the most popularity on the platform since the World Cup kicked off. This is further proof of the growing international influence of Moroccan football.
Hakimi, Saibari and Bouaddi are winning over fans around the world
Captain and leader of the Atlas Lions, Achraf Hakimi remains the most-followed Moroccan player on Instagram. Thanks to his performances at this World Cup, the Paris Saint-Germain full-back ranks 17th in the MyBettingSites rankings, confirming his status as a global star.
The study also highlights the rise of Ismael Saibari. Having put in a convincing World Cup performance for Morocco, the midfielder ranks 40th among the players who have gained the most followers. Further down the list, Ayyoub Bouaddi, the competition’s Moroccan revelation, appears in 49th place after impressing with his performances in midfield.
These figures illustrate the impact of the Atlas Lions’ performances on the popularity of their players. With every match, the Moroccan internationals attract new supporters from all corners of the world, bolstering their image far beyond the football pitch.
Moroccan football is gaining visibility
This growth on social media confirms the growing influence of Moroccan football on the international stage. Their performances at the 2026 World Cup have given the Atlas Lions exceptional visibility, which naturally translates into a sharp rise in their online following and new opportunities for the players.
On a global scale, Cape Verdean goalkeeper Vozinha tops this ranking. Having emerged as the tournament’s revelation thanks to his performances against Spain and Uruguay, his follower count has soared from around 50,000 to nearly 16 million in less than two weeks, according to a study reported by several international media outlets.
Whilst some surprise teams are also capitalising on this surge in popularity, Morocco is cementing its status as a rising force in world football. The performances of Achraf Hakimi, Ismael Saibari and Ayyoub Bouaddi are not only boosting their individual popularity, but are also enhancing the image and appeal of Moroccan football amongst international audiences.
Morocco: Excelling ahead of the 2026 World Cup, Ismael Saibari impresses Yamal
Lamine Yamal has singled out Ismael Saibari as one of the standout performers of the 2026 FIFA World Cup, praising the Moroccan midfielder ahead of Spain’s Round of 32 clash with Austria. Speaking to Spanish radio station COPE, the 18-year-old was asked to name the players who have impressed him most during the tournament.
Yamal Impressed by Saibari
While mentioning global stars such as Lionel Messi and Vinícius Júnior, Yamal also highlighted Morocco’s in-form playmaker. “Ismael Saibari is doing great things. He’s playing really well,” Yamal said. The praise comes as little surprise given Saibari’s outstanding performances for Morocco during the World Cup.
A Tournament to Remember
Deployed as a false nine for the Atlas Lions, the 25-year-old has been one of the competition’s biggest revelations, building on an exceptional season with PSV that earned him the Eredivisie MVP award. Saibari announced himself on the world stage by scoring just 71 seconds into Morocco’s opening match against Brazil, setting the fastest World Cup goal in Morocco’s history.
He has since continued his remarkable run, becoming the first African player ever to score in each of his country’s three group-stage matches at a FIFA World Cup. With three goals, he is now level with Youssef En-Nesyri as Morocco’s joint all-time leading scorer in World Cup history.
More Records in Sight
Saibari will have another opportunity to add to his growing list of achievements when Morocco face Canada in the Round of 16. With his confidence soaring and admiration coming from some of football’s brightest young stars, the Moroccan international continues to establish himself as one of the breakout players of the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
Hakimi after Morocco’s qualification: “We are a top World Nation”
Following Morocco’s dramatic Round of 16 qualification at the 2026 FIFA World Cup, achieved after a thrilling penalty shootout victory over the Netherlands, captain Achraf Hakimi delivered a strong and confident message about his team’s growing status on the global stage.
Speaking immediately after the match, the Moroccan right-back responded to lingering doubts about Morocco’s rise since their breakthrough at the 2022 World Cup: “Are we now a top world nation? YES. Many people thought it was luck in 2022.” The statement reflects Morocco’s growing confidence as they continue to establish themselves among the elite of international football.
A message of mental strength
Hakimi also highlighted the team’s discipline and composure in a high-pressure match against the Netherlands, emphasizing the tactical and mental demands of the encounter: “This team stayed focused. We know this style of play, we knew who we were facing. We had to be strong both physically and mentally.”
His comments underline the maturity and resilience that have become hallmarks of the Moroccan national team in recent tournaments.
Appreciation for the Fans
In a moment of celebration, the Paris Saint-Germain defender also acknowledged the incredible atmosphere in the stands, particularly the support from local fans: “I want to thank the Mexican people for their support today. They gave us incredible backing here in Mexico.”
Morocco Continue Their Historic Campaign
With this qualification secured, Morocco extend their impressive run at the 2026 World Cup, reinforcing their ambition to compete with the world’s strongest teams and continue their pursuit of history on football’s biggest stage.
2026 World Cup: Morocco to face Canada in the round of 16
The Morocco national football team now know their next opponent in the 2026 FIFA World Cup Round of 16: Canada. The Atlas Lions will face the Canadian national team in a highly anticipated knockout clash, with a place in the quarter-finals on the line.
Morocco continue their historic run
Morocco booked their spot in the Round of 16 after a dramatic penalty shootout victory over the Netherlands (1-1, 3-2 pens), confirming their growing status as one of the most consistent teams in the tournament. The Lions of the Atlas have impressed with their discipline, resilience, and ability to perform in high-pressure moments throughout the competition.
Canada reach a major milestone
Canada, meanwhile, continue their strong World Cup campaign by reaching the knockout stages and earning a prestigious clash against one of the tournament’s standout teams. Their qualification sets up one of the most intriguing fixtures of the Round of 16.
A decisive knockout showdown ahead
The Morocco–Canada encounter promises a tactical and intense battle between two teams with different styles but the same objective: a place in the quarter-finals. Morocco will rely on their defensive organization and collective
2026 World Cup: Morocco stun the Netherlands to reach the round of 16
Morocco’s remarkable 2026 FIFA World Cup journey continues. The Atlas Lions secured their place in the Round of 16 after defeating the Netherlands on penalties (1-1, 3-2) following a dramatic Round of 32 clash on Monday night. Facing one of Europe’s strongest teams, Morocco showed tremendous resilience and determination to keep their World Cup dream alive.
Morocco fight back in dramatic fashion
After a tightly contested first half, the Netherlands appeared to be heading for victory when Cody Gakpo broke the deadlock in the 72nd minute. With elimination looming, Morocco refused to surrender. Deep into stoppage time, Issa Diop equalized in the 90th minute, sending Moroccan supporters into celebration and forcing the match into extra time. Neither side was able to find a winner during the additional 30 minutes, leaving the outcome to be decided by a penalty shootout.
Atlas Lions hold their nerve
Morocco kept their composure from the penalty spot, converting three of their attempts while the Dutch scored only twice. The victory on penalties secured qualification for the Round of 16, extending the Atlas Lions’ impressive run after an encouraging group-stage campaign.
Result
Netherlands 1–1 Morocco (Morocco win 3–2 on penalties)
Scorers:
- Cody Gakpo (72′) – Netherlands
- Issa Diop (90′) – Morocco
Morocco’s World Cup Dream Continues
By eliminating one of Europe’s traditional football powerhouses, Morocco once again demonstrated why they are among the tournament’s most dangerous teams. The Atlas Lions continue to impress with their fighting spirit and tactical discipline, reinforcing the growing reputation of Moroccan football on the international stage. Morocco will now face Canada in the Round of 16 as they look to continue their remarkable journey and dream even bigger at the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
