The devastating earthquake which shook the province of Al Haouz in Marrakech caused significant human and economic losses. Faced with this situation, an innovative proposal for a “Post-Earthquake Solidarity Visa” was put forward, aiming to mobilize tourists to contribute financially to the reconstruction of the affected regions.
In the wake of the devastating earthquake which struck the province of Al Haouz, including its capital Marrakech, on September 8, 2023, the local and national authorities of Morocco mobilized in an exceptional manner to assess the damage and provide assistance. emergency aid to those affected. Thus, in the process, an original idea was proposed by Amine Benchekri, president of the Edito Group “Sapress, Sochepress, Warak”, in favor of a “Post-Earthquake Solidarity Visa” for tourists visiting Morocco. According to Benchekri, many visitors to Morocco would be ready to contribute to the reconstruction of villages in the Atlas Mountains, strongly impacted by the earthquake.
He therefore suggests the introduction of a contribution in the form of a “solidarity visa” of a reasonable amount, between 20 and 30 euros, intended to rebuild damaged tangible and intangible heritage. Once this contribution is paid on arrival, a platform could be set up to allow those who wish to contribute more. Nabil Abouzaid, CEO of Insightek and ESOMAR representative in Morocco, approves of this idea, emphasizing that the surplus of 30 euros would not represent a significant burden for tourists, but that the cumulative sum on the basis of 12 million annual tourists would constitute a important contribution to the reconstruction effort.
Impact of a Solidarity Visa on the Moroccan tourism industry
This proposal raises relevant questions about its impact on the overall cost of travel to Morocco. The economic, financial and logistical implications of implementing such a solidarity visa should be taken into account. An in-depth analysis is necessary to assess the potential benefits and possible consequences on the tourism industry and the Moroccan economy as a whole. From an economic point of view, the introduction of a Post-Earthquake Solidarity Visa could generate considerable funds for reconstruction.
With a base of 12 million annual tourists and a contribution of 30 euros per person, this would represent a potential prize pool of more than 3.6 billion dirhams in one year. Such a sum would make it possible to rebuild more than 25,000 houses, which would constitute significant assistance in the face of the 60,000 destroyed houses. However, it is essential to address the issues related to the application and management of this visa. Practical issues, such as raising funds, transparency in their use and establishing a reliable platform for additional contributions, need to be carefully considered.
Furthermore, it is crucial to assess the potential consequences on the tourism sector. An increase in the overall cost of travel could discourage some tourists and impact Morocco’s attractiveness as a tourist destination. Thus, the proposal for a Post-Earthquake Solidarity Visa in Morocco raises interesting thoughts. Although it offers considerable funding potential for reconstruction, in-depth studies and careful assessment of the economic, logistical and tourism implications are necessary before making a final decision. It is also crucial to find a balance between mobilizing the resources necessary for reconstruction and preserving Morocco’s attractiveness as a tourist destination.
