Moroccans abroad shocked by soaring prices during summer visits

Many Moroccans living abroad are expressing frustration over the steep rise in prices across Morocco this summer, saying the cost of basic goods and services has become unreasonable and is putting pressure on their holiday budgets.

On social media, several Moroccans and foreign tourists have voiced similar frustrations. 

One user posted on Reddit “let me tell you the hard truth. Morocco is more expensive than Europe. I was shocked. The prices are insane, even more expensive than Denmark. And everybody is buying, all restaurants are full. Well, you can’t say anything because everybody is outside buying. When people feel injustice they talk, they protest, they boycott. Now I understand that Moroccans are happy about the situation.”

Soufiane Naimi, a 30-year-old Moroccan based in France, shared a similar sentiment after arriving in Saidia. “The price of groceries is ridiculous. Why is everything getting expensive by the year? It’s unreasonable considering the average income is low.”

“I’m reconsidering coming here in the summer altogether, spending the summer somewhere else might be cheaper” he told Hespress Eng.

“It feels like we’re being taken advantage of,” he added. “Just because we’re coming from abroad, doesn’t mean we’re rich.”

Many Moroccans from the diaspora return every year, especially during July and August, bringing in significant foreign currency and boosting local economies. 

But this year, complaints about prices have been widespread, especially in major cities and tourist hotspots like Tangier, Tetouan, Agadir, and Casablanca.

Economist Mohammed Jadri explained that the surge in prices during the summer is partly due to seasonal demand, especially in touristic areas. 

“There is a clear imbalance between supply and demand,” he said. “When thousands of people come back at the same time, it puts pressure on transport, accommodation, food markets, and even basic services. Prices naturally go up.”

However, Jadri also pointed to deeper structural issues. “Inflation in Morocco hasn’t fully eased. Energy costs, transport, and imported goods are still expensive, and traders adjust their prices accordingly.”

Jadri added that unfortunately, some businesses also take advantage of the influx of Moroccans abroad, assuming they are willing to pay more.

Jadri warned that if this trend continues, it may discourage many from visiting regularly. 

“They are important for the economy. If they feel exploited, they’ll reduce the frequency and duration of their visits, which could hurt local businesses in the long run.”