Traveling to foreign destinations can be an exciting prospect, with each country offering a unique blend of culture, history, and natural beauty. However, for Israeli citizens, the possibility of visiting certain countries can be restricted due to geopolitical complexities and historical tensions. One such destination is Morocco, a nation renowned for its vibrant markets, ancient cities, and breathtaking landscapes. In this post, we explore the current state of affairs on travel restrictions and answer the question “Can Israeli Citizens Travel to Morocco?”
Historical Tensions and Geopolitical Context
The diplomatic relations between Israel and Morocco have been complicated over the years. Morocco once maintained informal ties with Israel, but these relations ended following the Yom Kippur War in 1973 when Morocco severed official diplomatic ties with the Jewish state. In recent times, there have been attempts to rebuild the diplomatic relationship, and in December 2020, Morocco and Israel agreed to normalize their relations under the United States-brokered Abraham Accords. The agreement aimed to strengthen economic and political ties between the two countries and facilitate cooperation in various fields.
Can Israeli Citizens Travel to Morocco?
Yes, Israeli citizens can visit Morocco but must have a valid visa in order to enter the country. This is part of the country’s entry requirements – Israelis cannot enter without a visa.
you can submit an application either electronically or via your nearest Moroccan embassy/consulate/visa center.
Thankfully, getting a visa for Morocco is now much easier, as it can be done online. So if you’re traveling with an Israeli passport you can apply for the Morocco e-Visa. The Morocco electronic visa service is the fastest way to get a travel permit from Israel, and the e-Visa is valid for tourism and business trips. With an approved online visa you can visit Morocco and stay for up to 30 days.
However, regardless of whether you need a visa or not, ensure that your passport is stamped when you arrive in Morocco, as you may have difficulty leaving the country if your passport does not have an entry stamp.
How to Get a Moroccan e-Visa from Israel
Israeli passport holders can apply for an e-Visa for Morocco by following 3 simple steps:
- Complete the Morocco e-Visa form
- Pay the visa processing fee
- Receive the approved e-Visa
you’ll need the following documentation:
- passport with at least 3 months validity
- recent passport-sized photo
- email address (that’s checked regularly)
- debit or credit card to pay the visa fees
Once your e-visa is approved (which generally takes a couple of days), it’ll be sent to your provided email address in a PDF format. While you don’t have to have a physical copy as well as a digital one, it’s advised you print out a copy of your visa to avoid any disruptions.
Visas usually don’t take that long to be approved but it is recommended to start the application process as soon as you know you’re going to Morocco to avoid disruptions to your travel plans. Once you’ve paid the visa application fee (around DH 220 or USD$23) and your visa is approved, you can stay in Morocco for a period of up to 30 days.
Travel Tips to Morocco
OK, now that we have answered the question of can Israeli Citizens Travel to Morocco, here are some things to keep in mind:
Respect the Culture: Morocco is a country with rich traditions and customs. As a visitor, it’s essential to respect the local culture, dress modestly, and be aware of local customs and traditions. For example, it’s polite to ask for permission before taking photographs of people or religious sites.
Bargain with Respect: Bargaining is a common practice in Moroccan markets (souks). However, remember to do it with respect and a friendly attitude. It’s part of the local shopping experience, but being overly aggressive can spoil the atmosphere.
Try Local Cuisine: Moroccan food is famous for its flavorful spices and diverse dishes. Don’t miss the opportunity to savor traditional dishes like tagine, couscous, and Moroccan mint tea. Be adventurous and explore the local street food too!
Learn Basic Phrases: While many Moroccans in popular tourist areas speak English, learning some basic Arabic or French phrases will be appreciated by the locals and can help you navigate better in remote areas.
Dress Appropriately: Morocco has varying climates, so pack accordingly. In urban areas, modest clothing is generally more appropriate. In rural or coastal regions, you can dress more casually, but still avoid revealing clothing.
Haggle Transport Prices: Negotiate taxi fares or other transportation costs before getting in the vehicle. Agree on the price in advance to avoid any misunderstandings later.
Stay Hydrated: Morocco can get quite hot, especially during the summer months. Carry a reusable water bottle and stay hydrated, especially if you plan to explore outdoor attractions.
Carry Cash: While credit cards are accepted in many places, having some cash is useful, especially in smaller towns and rural areas where card payment options might be limited.
Safety Tips for Israelis Traveling to Morocco
Register with the Embassy: Before traveling to any foreign country, including Morocco, register with the Israeli embassy or consulate. This helps the government keep track of its citizens and provide assistance in case of emergencies.
Check Travel Advisories: Prior to departure, check the official travel advisories issued by the Israeli government for Morocco. These advisories may contain important safety information and any potential risks.
Keep Valuables Secure: Petty theft and pickpocketing can occur in crowded tourist areas. Keep your valuables secure and be cautious of your surroundings, especially in bustling markets and public transport.
Be Aware of Political Demonstrations: Stay informed about any local political or social issues that might lead to demonstrations. Avoid participating in or being in the vicinity of protests, as they can sometimes turn unpredictable and potentially unsafe.
Respect Local Customs: Learn about the cultural norms and customs of the country you are visiting. Being respectful and considerate towards local traditions can go a long way in fostering positive interactions.
Emergency Contact Information: Save the contact information of the Israeli embassy or consulate in Morocco and carry it with you at all times. This information can be invaluable in case of emergencies.
Travel Insurance: Purchase comprehensive travel insurance that covers medical emergencies, trip cancellations, and other unexpected incidents.
Be Cautious with Strangers: Exercise caution when interacting with strangers, especially if they approach you with unsolicited offers or assistance.
Remember, travel experiences are best enjoyed when you prioritize safety and show respect for the local culture. By being informed and prepared, you can make the most of your journey to Morocco and create lasting memories.
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