Royal Air Maroc Revives Domestic Connectivity to Essaouira
In a significant development for Morocco's tourism sector, Royal Air Maroc has officially resumed its flight services connecting Casablanca with the enchanting coastal city of Essaouira. This domestic route, which had been on hold since September 2020, aims to bolster accessibility to one of Morocco's most treasured destinations. The first flights under this renewed service took off on October 28, 2026, with the airline operating ATR 72 aircraft for two weekly rotations.
The newly established schedule features flights departing from Casablanca every Sunday at 9:30 a.m., arriving in Essaouira at 10:50 a.m., and on Tuesdays at 4 p.m., landing at 5:20 p.m. The return journey from Essaouira sees flights leaving at 11:30 a.m. on Sundays and 6 p.m. on Tuesdays. This service is expected to significantly enhance the travel options for both domestic and international tourists eager to experience Essaouira's charm.
Essaouira: A Coastal Gem of Morocco
Known as the "Wind City," Essaouira boasts a vibrant cultural scene, stunning whitewashed architecture, and a UNESCO-listed historic medina that draws visitors from around the globe. Its picturesque fishing harbor and beautiful beaches further enhance its appeal, making it a favored destination for surfers and those seeking an alternative to Morocco's larger resort towns. The city's popularity has been on the rise, with tourism data indicating that Essaouira-Mogador Airport welcomed 310,436 passengers in 2025, marking a remarkable 34.4% increase from the previous year.
Moreover, the classified tourist accommodations in Essaouira recorded over 1.249 million overnight stays, with an average occupancy rate of 57%. Currently, the destination offers approximately 438 classified accommodation establishments, providing around 10,700 beds. The anticipated revival of the Mogador resort will further augment hotel capacity, with plans to introduce three new beachfront hotels and an expansion of the existing Sofitel, aiming for 270 hotel rooms by 2027.
The reestablished flights from Casablanca are poised to play a crucial role in supporting Essaouira's ambitions to attract a greater influx of international visitors and investment, thereby enhancing its status as a key player in Morocco's tourism landscape.
As reported by travelmole.com.
