Morocco Encourages Tourists to Visit Western Sahara, Sparking Debate Over Sovereignty

Morocco wants tourists to visit Western – Morocco is actively promoting Western Sahara as a tourist destination, aiming to boost its visibility and economic development. Recent flights to Dakhla, a city in the disputed territory, have become more accessible, with Ryanair offering return trips from Madrid starting at €30—around $35. This price point has made the area a tempting option for budget-conscious travelers, even as local hotels range from budget-friendly hostels to new luxury resorts touting the region as Morocco’s overlooked gem. The push to attract visitors is part of a broader strategy to solidify Moroccan control over the territory.

Geopolitical Significance of Western Sahara

Western Sahara has been a contested region for over 50 years, with the United Nations recognizing it as a “non-self-governing territory” that lacks full autonomy. Despite this, Morocco administers approximately 80% of the area, framing it as an integral part of its national identity. The country refers to the region as its “southern provinces,” a designation that has influenced how the territory is marketed internationally. This geopolitical narrative underpins Morocco’s efforts to attract tourists and strengthen its claim.

Boosting Tourism and Economic Growth

According to data from the Moroccan Ministry of Tourism, visitor numbers to Western Sahara have surged by over 50% in the past seven years. From 490,297 in 2019 to 743,133 in 2025, the growth has been fueled by expanded air routes connecting Dakhla to Madrid, Paris, and the Canary Islands. Airlines such as Royal Air Maroc, Transavia France, and Binter Canarias now offer direct services, making the region more reachable. This development aligns with Morocco’s goal of positioning Western Sahara as a viable travel destination.

“Promoting Western Sahara as part of Morocco helps normalize its presence in the region,” notes Dr. Andrea Maria Pelliconi, an international human rights law expert at the University of Southampton.

Corporate Influence on Public Perception

Travel booking platforms like Expedia, Booking.com, and Trivago have also contributed to the region’s image. When searching for accommodations in Western Sahara, these sites often label the locations as being within Morocco. A Booking.com representative explained that the classification reflects Morocco’s administrative control, which is widely accepted in global travel databases. While this practice aids accessibility, critics argue it can obscure the territory’s disputed status and support Morocco’s occupation.

Traveler Experiences and Local Insights

Traveler accounts suggest that the region remains underdeveloped despite the increase in visitors. A UK tourist, Tom Ruck, described the scene in Dakhla as “still quite empty,” with most resorts unoccupied. He observed the prevalence of Moroccan stamps in passports and the omnipresent national flag, reinforcing the perception of Moroccan dominance. While some see the development as progress, others view it as a tool to solidify control over the territory.

Morocco’s investment in infrastructure and marketing has drawn airlines to list the region as Moroccan. Royal Air Maroc and Transavia France are among the carriers offering flights, while Ryanair has yet to clarify its stance on the territory’s classification. This collaboration between airlines and the government highlights the role of corporate entities in shaping the geopolitical narrative around Western Sahara.

Implications for the Sahrawi People

Legal scholars and rights groups warn that branding Western Sahara as Moroccan could diminish awareness of the Sahrawi people’s struggle for self-determination. By framing the area as part of Morocco, companies risk reinforcing the idea that the region is already fully integrated, which may influence how tourists perceive the ongoing conflict. This could have long-term effects on the international recognition of the territory’s status and the rights of its inhabitants.