Casablanca – Royal Air Maroc (RAM) is preparing to reinstate its direct Casablanca-Beijing route, a move set to enhance Morocco’s strategic connections with China. Beginning January 20, 2025, this key route will operate three times a week, offering travelers a direct link between the two nations after a three-year hiatus caused by the COVID-19 pandemic.
Strengthening bilateral relations
The return of this direct flight marks a significant milestone in Moroccan-Chinese relations. The route initially launched on January 16, 2020, but was suspended weeks later due to the global health crisis. Its resumption is part of RAM’s broader 2024–2037 strategic plan aimed at fostering trade, tourism, and cultural exchanges between the two countries.
Abderrahman Brahimi, RAM’s Director for Morocco, the Maghreb, the Middle East, and Asia, emphasized the strong demand for Morocco among Chinese travelers. “We’ve signed long-term agreements with Chinese travel agencies to ensure a robust partnership and maintain high occupancy rates on our flights,” Brahimi stated during a recent signing ceremony in Beijing.
This ceremony culminated in the signing of 16 agreements with major Chinese travel agencies. The partnerships reflect the growing interest in Morocco as a destination, underscoring the mutual benefits of closer ties between the two countries.
Operational details
The Casablanca-Beijing route will be operated using state-of-the-art Boeing 787-9 Dreamliner aircraft, equipped with 302 seats, including 26 in Business Class. Flights will depart Casablanca on Mondays, Thursdays, and Saturdays at 3:15 PM (local time) and arrive in Beijing the following day at 10:50 AM (local time). Return flights will leave Beijing on Tuesdays, Fridays, and Sundays at 12:50 PM (local time), landing in Casablanca at 8:15 PM (local time).
RAM’s plans extend beyond Beijing. The airline aims to gradually increase the frequency of flights on this route from three to seven per week and explore new routes to other major Chinese cities, including Shanghai and Guangzhou. These expansions align with Morocco’s vision of becoming a central hub for global travel, connecting Asia, Africa, Europe, and North America.
A strategic partnership
This revival follows the visit of King Mohammed VI to China in 2016, during which bilateral agreements were signed, including a visa exemption for Chinese nationals traveling to Morocco. These agreements laid the foundation for increasing tourist and business exchanges, making Morocco an attractive destination for Chinese travelers.
In 2019, Morocco witnessed a surge in Chinese tourists, reflecting a growing interest in the Kingdom’s rich cultural heritage and natural beauty. RAM’s direct route aims to capitalize on this momentum, providing seamless travel options and further strengthening Morocco’s position as a gateway to Africa.
Broader implications
Morocco’s Ambassador to China, Abdelkader Ansari, highlighted the significance of this route in fostering economic and cultural exchanges. “The Casablanca-Beijing flight caters to the growing needs of both nations, supporting trade, tourism, and deeper bilateral ties,” Ansari stated at a recent celebratory dinner in Beijing.
He also emphasized the strategic importance of Casablanca Airport as a transit hub connecting nearly 40 African destinations with Asia, Europe, and North America. This connectivity positions RAM as a key player in global aviation, a status reinforced by the airline’s recent accolade as Africa’s Best Airline for the second consecutive year.
Looking ahead
The resumption of direct flights between Casablanca and Beijing symbolizes more than just a restored route; it’s a testament to the enduring partnership between Morocco and China. As RAM continues to expand its network and enhance its services, this connection will undoubtedly contribute to deeper collaboration and mutual prosperity.
