Moroccans abroad returning home in search of new opportunities

After decades of brain drain, Morocco is now witnessing a reverse trend: a growing number of Moroccans who once left in search of better lives abroad are returning home, according to Morocco World News.

“The country I left has changed significantly,” said Omar Berrado, who spent over 20 years in the Netherlands and is now planning on opening a restaurant in Morocco. “Now, it’s about thriving, not just surviving.”

Morocco’s diaspora sent home over $11.7 billion in remittances last year, marking a 2.1% increase from 2023, according to the Moroccan Exchange Office. While many continue to seek their fortunes abroad, Morocco is feeling like a land of opportunity to others.

 “I left Morocco for economic reasons,” said 29-year-old Azmi. “But today, I’m thinking of returning for the same reasons.”

As some Moroccans ponder returning home, more can reportedly be done to encourage entrepreneurship.

Unlike countries like Nigeria and Kenya—where remittances are often channeled into land, agriculture, and other investments—Morocco’s remittances are mostly spent on daily needs such as food, education, and household expenses.

Observers point to excessive bureaucracy as a key reason why Moroccans are hesitant to invest their capital.

To harness this influx of talent and financial resources, experts say Morocco must go beyond clarify its small business policies, streamline processes, and shift their mindset to one that actively encourages investment and innovation.