The Tourism Boom in Western Sahara and the Debate Over Moroccan Control
Morocco wants tourists to visit Western – Travelers are increasingly drawn to Western Sahara, a region often marketed as Morocco’s newest frontier. A recent email from Irish airline Ryanair sparked interest, promising an “adventure” in the city of Dakhla, situated on a windswept peninsula where the Sahara Desert meets the Atlantic Ocean. The appeal of Dakhla, with its promise of affordable flights and diverse lodging options, has made it a tempting destination. Return flights from Madrid to the city now start at just €30 ($35), and the area boasts a range of accommodations, from budget-friendly hostels to newly constructed luxury resorts. These establishments frequently describe Western Sahara as Morocco’s “hidden gem,” enticing visitors with the allure of a unique desert experience.
However, this narrative masks a deeper political reality. Western Sahara remains one of the world’s longest-standing territorial disputes, with the United Nations classifying it as a “non-self-governing territory.” This status underscores the region’s lack of autonomy, as approximately 80% of its land is currently under Moroccan administration. The country claims the territory as part of its “southern provinces,” a designation that has been contested for decades. While Morocco has invested heavily in developing infrastructure and promoting tourism in the area, critics argue that this effort is a strategic move to consolidate control over the disputed region.
According to data from the Moroccan Ministry of Tourism, visitor numbers to the area have surged by over 50% in the past seven years. In 2019, there were 490,297 tourists recorded, but by 2025, that figure had climbed to 743,133. This growth is partly attributed to expanding air connections, with airlines like Ryanair, Transavia France, and Binter Canarias now offering direct flights from Madrid, Paris, and the Canary Islands. These routes have made Western Sahara more accessible, but they also reinforce the perception that the region is an integral part of Morocco, despite its contested status.
Airlines and Booking Platforms: Ambiguous Labels
Western Sahara’s integration into Morocco’s tourism framework is evident in how it is presented to travelers. Ryanair, for instance, lists Dakhla as a Moroccan destination, while Transavia France similarly refers to the territory as part of the country. Binter Canarias, the flag carrier of Spain’s Canary Islands, is an exception, labeling the region as Western Sahara rather than Morocco. This distinction highlights the varying approaches among airlines, with some aligning themselves with Morocco’s claims while others maintain a more neutral stance.
Expedia, Booking.com, and Trivago also contribute to this ambiguity by categorizing Western Sahara as Moroccan on their platforms. A Booking.com spokesperson explained that when a region is classified as disputed or affected by conflict, the company includes relevant information to aid travelers in making informed decisions. The statement emphasizes that users should consult official travel advisories, which are provided in line with global practices. However, this approach has drawn criticism from rights groups, who argue that such labeling blurs the lines of international law and downplays the region’s independence struggle.
Tom Ruck, a 29-year-old UK tourist, shared his experience after arriving in Dakhla via Ryanair. “You’ve got quite a lot of resorts being built, however they were very, very empty,” he said. Ruck noted that while the city had a few other visitors, the overall atmosphere suggested the region was still in its early stages of development. He observed a Moroccan stamp in his passport and the presence of Morocco’s flag throughout the city, reinforcing the notion that the territory is perceived as Moroccan by many travelers.
Erik Hagen, a campaigner with Western Sahara Resource Watch, highlighted the implications of this marketing strategy. “When companies market destinations there as Moroccan, they risk contributing to a distortion of international law and public understanding,” he stated. Hagen emphasized that such labeling can be misleading, as it promotes Morocco’s occupation as legitimate and overlooks the rights of the indigenous Sahrawi people. He questioned the corporate responsibility of airlines and booking sites, suggesting they should prioritize due diligence in politically sensitive regions.
Legal Perspectives and the Role of the United Nations
The United Nations has long been a vocal advocate for resolving the Western Sahara conflict, which has persisted for over five decades. The organization has repeatedly called for a referendum to determine the territory’s future, but Morocco has resisted, arguing that the indigenous population is not ready for self-governance. Critics, including legal experts, contend that Morocco’s claim over the area is a means to legitimize its control, particularly as the country continues to invest in infrastructure and tourism.
Dr. Andrea Maria Pelliconi, a human rights law specialist at the University of Southampton, asserts that airlines and booking platforms should clearly distinguish Western Sahara from Morocco. “It’s possible that companies are subtly reinforcing Morocco’s sovereignty over the territory,” she said. This distinction is crucial, as it affects how the international community perceives the conflict and the rights of the Sahrawi people. The lack of clarity in labeling can lead travelers to unknowingly support Morocco’s occupation, unaware of the political complexities involved.
Despite these concerns, the Moroccan government has not responded to a request for comment on the issue. Meanwhile, the tourism industry continues to thrive, with the region’s appeal growing alongside its accessibility. The question remains: does the rising number of visitors reflect genuine interest in the area’s culture and landscapes, or is it a sign of Morocco’s successful campaign to integrate Western Sahara into its national identity? As the debate intensifies, the role of international businesses in shaping perceptions of the territory will remain a focal point for critics and advocates alike.
The situation in Western Sahara raises broader questions about the balance between economic development and political accountability. While the increase in tourism may bring economic benefits, it also risks normalizing the occupation of a region that has been under dispute for half a century. For many visitors, the experience of Dakhla and its surroundings may be one of beauty and adventure, but for the local population, it could symbolize a deeper struggle for self-determination. As the industry continues to expand, the challenge lies in ensuring that the narratives presented to travelers align with the realities of the region’s political status.
Ultimately, the marketing of Western Sahara as part of Morocco highlights the complex interplay between tourism and territorial claims. While companies may see the region as a lucrative destination, their branding choices carry significant implications for the ongoing conflict. The international community’s understanding of the dispute could be shaped by these labels, making it essential for airlines and platforms to provide accurate information. As more travelers visit the area, the debate over its status will likely continue to evolve, with the voices of the Sahrawi people at the center of the discussion.
