Morocco wants tourists to visit Western Sahara. Some say it's tightening its control

Morocco is ramping up tourism development in Western Sahara as part of a broader strategy to strengthen its claim over the disputed territory. The Moroccan government actively promotes travel to the region, positioning it as an emerging destination for European visitors seeking desert landscapes and cultural experiences.

Tourism expansion serves dual purposes for Rabat. It generates economic revenue while simultaneously normalizing Moroccan sovereignty over a territory that remains contested internationally. The United Nations considers Western Sahara a non-self-governing territory, and the Polisario Front, which represents the Sahrawi Arab Democratic Republic, disputes Morocco's control.

Critics argue the tourism push amounts to a consolidation tactic. By increasing Western presence and investment, Morocco establishes facts on the ground that reinforce its territorial claims. This mirrors broader geopolitical patterns where countries use economic development and civilian settlement to solidify disputed territorial holdings.

The initiative targets affluent European tourists with infrastructure investments in hotels, resorts, and adventure tourism operators. Marketing campaigns emphasize Western Sahara's natural resources and untapped potential, framing the territory as a safe, accessible destination within Morocco's sphere.

Supporters of the development argue it brings jobs and modernization to the region. Opponents contend the strategy amounts to demographic and economic transformation designed to entrench occupation and undermine independence movements. The approach reflects Morocco's long-term commitment to solidifying control through incremental integration rather than military force.

This tourism expansion coincides with Morocco's broader regional diplomatic gains, including normalization agreements with Israel brokered by the United States. The country has leveraged these newfound relationships to advance its Western Sahara position internationally while simultaneously developing the territory's economic infrastructure.