Dakhla Takes Off: Ryanair’s New Route Connects Madrid to Moroccan Jewel
Dakhla, a coastal gem in southern Morocco, is now easier to reach than ever thanks to Ryanair’s new direct route from Madrid. With two flights a week (Wednesdays and Saturdays), this exciting development opens up a world of adventure for travelers seeking stunning landscapes, vibrant culture, and thrilling watersports. The inaugural flight touched down at Dakhla Airport to a warm welcome, carrying a mix of Moroccan expats returning home and eager international tourists.
This new connection is the fruit of a partnership between Ryanair and the Moroccan National Tourist Office (MNTO), reflecting a shared commitment to boosting tourism in the region. It’s a significant step in strengthening air links between Morocco and Spain, two countries with close historical and cultural ties. Ryanair joins Royal Air Maroc, Binter Canarias, and Transavia as the fourth airline partner of the MNTO to offer direct international flights to Dakhla, solidifying the city’s growing prominence as a must-visit destination.
Local officials and tourism industry leaders celebrated the launch, highlighting the route’s potential to further accelerate Dakhla’s burgeoning tourism sector. Othman Aamar, President of the Regional Tourism Council of Oued Eddahab, emphasized the importance of enhanced air connectivity for a city experiencing rapid growth in visitor numbers. Ahmed Abdellaoui, President of the Regional Tourism Council, echoed this sentiment, noting the new route’s role in showcasing the region’s unique tourism assets and attracting foreign investment. Indeed, Morocco’s tourism sector is a key driver of economic growth, contributing significantly to the nation’s GDP and employment. According to the World Travel & Tourism Council, the sector’s direct contribution to GDP was 7.1% in 2022, demonstrating its vital role in the Moroccan economy.
The new route has been met with enthusiasm by the Moroccan diaspora, who now have a more convenient and affordable way to visit family and friends in Dakhla. Travelers have praised the modern facilities and efficient services at Dakhla Airport, further enhancing the overall travel experience.
But the excitement doesn’t stop there! Ryanair is also set to launch another new route connecting Dakhla to Lanzarote in the Canary Islands, further expanding travel options and boosting tourism in the region. With two weekly flights planned for this route, Dakhla is poised to become an even more accessible and attractive destination for European travelers. These new routes are expected to significantly increase Dakhla Airport’s international capacity to approximately 47,000 seats, making Spain the leading market for flights to Dakhla, surpassing France.
This expansion of air travel aligns perfectly with the MNTO’s 2023-2026 Tourism Roadmap, a strategic initiative aimed at promoting Morocco’s diverse tourism offerings and attracting a wider range of international visitors. The roadmap focuses on developing sustainable tourism practices, enhancing infrastructure, and diversifying tourism products to cater to evolving traveler preferences. By improving accessibility and promoting its unique attractions, Dakhla is well-positioned to capitalize on the growing global demand for authentic and enriching travel experiences.
