Several factors are advanced to explain this disaffection. The first is economic. The increase in the cost of transport tickets, whether air or sea, constitutes a major obstacle. This increase weighs heavily on the budget of families, especially in the context of economic crises and the increase in the cost of living in most countries of residence in Europe.
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To this cost of transport is added that of the stay on site, which is also pointed out. Testimonies collected by Newspapera show a continuous increase in prices from one year to the next, particularly in popular coastal areas. Hamid, a Moroccan who lives in the Netherlands, clearly explains it: “I visited Morocco every summer, but honestly, prices increase from year to year, especially in coastal areas like Martil, Asilah and Agadir. There is no control, and owners of rentals require exorbitant prices. This is what pushed us to change our mind and stay this year. I hope that the authorities will set up control over this subject and pay attention to those who are solely objective to make profit. »»
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These economic considerations result in concrete decisions within the diaspora. For many, the trip is simply postponed or canceled. This is the decision that Nadia made, residing in Lyon. “With the significant increase in prices and tickets, we decided to stay with us and take a simple vacation here, at least we are mentally based,” she said.
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Beyond the sole question of prices, the overall experience of the stay in Morocco has also become a decision-making factor for some. Comparison with other tourist destinations leads to part of the diaspora to explore alternatives. Abderrazak, installed in Malaga, testifies to this change of perspective: “Frankly, I visited Morocco every summer, but this year, I decided to stay in the south of Spain. The prices here are reasonable, the hotels and the services excellent, and there is not the stress that we live in Morocco because of the crowd and the negative behavior of certain people. »»
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This drop in attendance is not without consequences for the Moroccan economy. Professionals from the tourism and trade sectors have already expressed their dissatisfaction with the situation. They anticipate significant economic repercussions, especially for cities whose activity depends strongly on the income generated by Moroccans around the world during the summer period.