New Regulations for Airbnb Hosts in Morocco
As of November 20, 2026, Airbnb is set to implement significant changes regarding the identity verification process for hosts in Morocco. This move comes as part of a broader effort to enhance the privacy of travelers while ensuring compliance with legal obligations. Under the new policy, hosts will no longer be permitted to retain physical or digital copies of guests’ identity documents, such as passports or national identity cards, unless they can provide a valid justification for doing so. This regulation aims to protect the personal information of travelers and limit unnecessary data retention, promoting a safer and more secure experience for all users of the platform.
Understanding the New Rules
Travelers booking accommodations through Airbnb in Morocco should be aware that while hosts may request to see an identity document upon arrival, they must disclose this requirement within their listings. The updated policy explicitly states that any retention of identification photographs or photocopies must be justified by legal obligations or documented co-ownership rules. Furthermore, existing Moroccan laws already require tourist accommodations to verify guests' identities and report necessary information to authorities. Articles 36 to 38 of the Moroccan tourism law outline these obligations, mandating that establishments collect individual lodging forms and maintain records for a year, without an overarching requirement to photocopy passports.
Hosts who are legally bound to collect information will still be allowed to do so, but they must clearly indicate the required details and justifications in the 'Requests' section of their listings prior to booking. In instances where a host requests a photograph of a guest's identity card via WhatsApp post-booking, travelers have the right to inquire about the legal basis for such a request and whether it was mentioned in the property listing. If any demands seem to contravene Airbnb's regulations, guests are encouraged to report these incidents to the platform's support team.
Ultimately, these new rules signify a commitment to safeguarding user privacy while balancing the need for compliance with Moroccan laws governing tourist accommodations. As the landscape of short-term rentals continues to evolve, both hosts and guests must remain informed about these changes to navigate their responsibilities effectively.
As reported by bladi.net.
