The «Marhaba 2025» crossing operation is expected to see a significant increase in the number of travelers and vehicles, with passenger numbers projected to rise by 4% and vehicle numbers by 5% compared to 2024, which saw over 3.4 million travelers and 847,000 vehicles cross. This estimate was made during a meeting of the Moroccan-Spanish Joint Committee, held Wednesday in the Spanish city of Cádiz, to finalize the reception and organization plan for this major operation, which will begin on June 15 and continue until September 15, 2025. In response to the anticipated rise, 12,012 sea trips have been scheduled between the two shores of the Mediterranean, representing an 8.4% increase compared to last year. Logistical and human resources are being bolstered to ensure a smooth and safe crossing. This bilateral coordination aims to facilitate efficient mobility, reduce congestion at ports, and provide full support to the Maghreb community, which annually crosses from Europe to Morocco for the summer holidays. Over 20 Spanish institutions, at both national and regional levels, are participating in the operation, alongside approximately 29,000 personnel from security forces, health teams, the Red Cross, translators, and social assistants. Susana Crisostomo, an official from the Spanish Ministry of the Interior, confirmed that the crossing operation «represents a successful model of regional cooperation», emphasizing that «the key to success lies in constant coordination and prior planning between Morocco and Spain». On the Moroccan side, the delegation was led by Khalid Zerouali, Director of Migration and Border Control, along with senior officials from the Moroccan Embassy in Madrid, the Royal Gendarmerie, and several relevant ministries.
