Assalam aleykoum, my friends! Hassan here, and today I want to share some important Morocco news items that have been making waves across the kingdom. Whether you're living here like me, planning to move, or just curious about what's happening in our beautiful country, these stories will help you understand Morocco better.
Living in Morocco for years now, I've learned that staying informed about local news isn't just about being a good citizen—it's about understanding the rhythms of daily life here. From education to money transfers, from football fever to transportation challenges, these four Morocco news items are shaping conversations in cafés from Casablanca to Chefchaouen.
1. BAC Results 2025: The Regional Education Divide That's Got Everyone Talking
Let me tell you about something that shocked me when I first heard about it—the massive differences in Morocco's 2025 baccalaureate results between regions. As someone who's traveled across this country, I thought I understood the regional differences, but these numbers tell a story that goes deeper than I expected.
The Numbers That Made Me Stop and Think
The Oriental Academy topped the charts with an incredible 87.32% success rate. That means almost 9 out of 10 students passed their BAC in cities like Nador and Oujda. Having visited these eastern regions, I can tell you the students there work incredibly hard, often with fewer resources than their counterparts in bigger cities.
But here's what really caught my attention: Laayoune, in the south, had only a 47% success rate. That means more than half the students didn't pass. And Casablanca? Despite all its private schools and resources, barely reached 61%. Meanwhile, Marrakech exceeded 70%.
What This Means for Families
If you're considering moving to Morocco with children, these Morocco news items about education should definitely influence your decision. I remember talking to a French expat family in Rabat who chose their neighborhood specifically based on school quality. They were smart to research this thoroughly.
The regional gaps in education quality aren't just numbers—they represent real opportunities and challenges for young Moroccans. When I think about the students in Laayoune facing such difficult odds, it reminds me why education investment matters so much for Morocco's future.
2. MRE Money Transfers: Finally Some Good News After the Panic
A few weeks ago, I saw panic spreading through Moroccan communities abroad. The news about Morocco potentially having to forward all money transfers to France had families terrified. As someone who receives transfers from family abroad, I understood the fear completely.
The Agreement That Changed Everything
Bank Al-Maghrib, working with the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Ministry of Finance, and several Moroccan banks, managed to reach an agreement with the French Treasury. This wasn't just political theater—it was about protecting the lifeline that connects millions of Moroccans to their homeland.
We're talking about more than 100 billion dirhams transferred each year. That's not just a number in a budget report—that's families paying for their children's education, elderly parents getting medical care, and young entrepreneurs starting businesses.
What's Next for MRE Transfers
The success with France is just the beginning. Morocco plans to negotiate similar agreements with Spain, Belgium, Italy, the Netherlands—anywhere significant Moroccan communities live abroad. Having friends across Europe who regularly send money home, I know how crucial these agreements are for maintaining family connections.
This resolution shows Morocco's government understanding that these transfers aren't just financial transactions—they're emotional and cultural lifelines that keep families together across continents.
3. AFCON 2025: Morocco's Historic Football Moment
Now let's talk about something that has every Moroccan I know buzzing with excitement—the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations. Morocco is hosting, and after our incredible World Cup semi-final run, the expectations are sky-high.
Ticket Sales and Stadium Preparations
Tickets go on sale this month, and trust me, they're going to disappear faster than mint tea at a desert camp. The FRMF is handling sales through the Webook platform, and if you're planning to attend, you need to be ready to move quickly.
I've visited most of the host cities, and let me tell you about the atmosphere you can expect:
Rabat: The capital's dignity meets football passionCasablanca: Urban energy and the Mohammed V ComplexMarrakech: The Grand Stade with Atlas Mountains backdropTangier: Mediterranean vibes and incredible seafoodFez: Ancient city embracing modern footballAgadir: Beach city ready to party
Morocco's Group and Tournament Prospects
Morocco landed in Group A with Congo, Tanzania, and Zambia. On paper, it looks manageable, but the pressure is enormous. Playing at home after that magical World Cup run means everyone expects a trophy—including me!
The tournament runs from December 20, 2025, to January 18, 2026. If you're planning to visit Morocco during this time, book everything early. Hotel prices will soar, and availability will be limited.
4. VTC Services in Morocco: A Wake-Up Call About Safety
The recent assault on two young women in Rabat by an InDrive driver has brought attention to something many of us use daily but rarely think about deeply—the unregulated nature of VTC services in Morocco.
The Reality of Morocco's Transport Gray Area
InDrive has become incredibly popular, especially among young people in cities like Casablanca and Rabat. I've used it myself many times, and usually, it works perfectly. You negotiate a price, get your ride, and everyone's happy. But this incident reminds us that the service operates in a legal gray area.
Unlike regulated taxi services, InDrive drivers aren't subject to the same background checks or safety protocols. When something goes wrong, recourse can be complicated. The platform is officially banned but remains accessible—a contradiction that creates uncertainty for everyone.
Safety Tips for Using VTC Services
Based on my experience and recent events, here's what I recommend:
- Always check that the driver, car, and license plate match the app information
- Trust your instincts—if something feels wrong, don't get in
- Share your trip details with friends or family
- Keep emergency contacts readily available
The Need for Clear Regulations
With AFCON 2025 approaching and millions of journeys planned across host cities, Morocco needs clearer VTC regulations. The current situation serves no one well—not drivers, not passengers, not the broader transportation ecosystem.
I hope these Morocco news items help regulators understand that people need safe, reliable transportation options. Whether that means properly regulating platforms like InDrive or improving traditional taxi services, something needs to change.
Looking Forward: What These Morocco News Items Mean for You
These four stories aren't just news—they're windows into Morocco's evolving identity. The education disparities remind us that development isn't uniform across regions. The MRE transfer resolution shows Morocco's commitment to its diaspora. AFCON 2025 represents our growing international profile. And the VTC situation highlights the need for modern regulations in a changing economy.
Whether you're living in Morocco, planning to move here, or just fascinated by North African culture, these Morocco news items affect the daily reality of millions of people. They shape how families make decisions, how communities develop, and how Morocco positions itself globally.
Join the Conversation
I'd love to hear your thoughts on these Morocco news items. Are you planning to attend AFCON 2025? Have you experienced regional education differences? Do you use VTC services regularly?
Share your experiences in the comments below. Your insights help all of us understand Morocco better, and honestly, I learn as much from your stories as you might from mine.
Until next time, take care of yourself, take care of others, and keep exploring this incredible country we call home.
Assalam aleykoum!