Morocco lifts ban on international flights

The ban, imposed on 29 November following the identification of the Omicron Covid-19 variant, was initially planned to run for two weeks, but was extended several times, first to 31 December and then subsequently until today.

In a statement, the government explained that the decision was made due to ‘the evolution of the epidemiological situation in the kingdom.’

The statement added that: “This decision comes in accordance with the legal provisions relating to the management of the state of health emergency and following the recommendations of the scientific and technical commission and taking into consideration the evolution of the epidemiological situation in the kingdom.”

Testing requirements remain in place for all inbound travellers

According to advice by the UK Foreign & Commonwealth Development Office: “To enter Morocco, passengers will be required to present a valid vaccine pass, as well as proof of a negative PCR test result, with the sample having been taken within 48 hours of boarding. Children under the age of six are exempt from the pre-travel PCR test requirement, and children under the age of 18 are exempt from the requirement to present a vaccine pass.”

Travellers to Morocco must also bring a signed passenger health form before their arrival in the country, and all new arrivals must conduct rapid antigen tests upon entry, as well as PCR tests for randomly selected passengers. Additional PCR tests may also be required 48 hours before arrival from randomly passengers.

Australia has also announced that it will ease travel restrictions from 21 February, clearing the way for the return of tourists and business travellers to the country.