## Reconnecting Roots: Morocco Launches Summer Quran Program for Diaspora Youth

**Over 997 centers nationwide offer spiritual enrichment and combatting doctrinal shifts.**

This summer, the Ministry of Endowments and Islamic Affairs in Morocco has embarked on a comprehensive initiative targeting Moroccan children residing abroad who return to their homeland during vacation. Launching 997 Quran memorization centers across the country from July 20th to August 20th, the program aims to strengthen ties between diaspora youth and Morocco's moderate Islamic identity.

The Eastern region boasts the highest concentration of centers with 443, followed by Tangier–Tetouan–Al Hoceima (213) and Casablanca–Settat (160). The initiative also encompasses the distribution of the Moroccan Mushaf Muhammadi (Quran edition) with translations in French and English across all provinces.

Beyond Quranic memorization, the program offers a diverse range of activities: spiritual music evenings, interactive community events, and workshops focusing on Arabic and Moroccan calligraphy for children.  A dedicated pavilion at Tangier Med Port provides informational and recreational activities specifically designed for returning families.

 **Addressing Doctrinal Shifts**

The initiative also seeks to address growing concerns about doctrinal shifts within the Moroccan diaspora, particularly the influence of non-Maliki sects such as Shiism in certain European countries. 

Kacem Ashhaboun, a Moroccan community leader in the Netherlands, hailed the program, emphasizing its potential to “reconnect young Moroccans abroad with their cultural and spiritual roots through Morocco’s unique religious model.” He urged Moroccan authorities to consider implementing similar programs abroad to maximize their impact. 

Ashhaboun warned that many second- and third-generation Moroccans in Europe lack the doctrinal grounding of earlier generations, making them “increasingly vulnerable to ideological currents outside the Maliki Sunni tradition.” He stressed the urgency for Moroccan religious institutions to expand their outreach in Europe.

 **"Spiritual Security" - A National Priority**


Ahmed El Boukili, a religious studies scholar at Mohammed V University in Rabat, echoed the importance of the initiative.  “This falls squarely within the spiritual guardianship role of the Commander of the Faithful,” he stated. “In an age of globalized ideologies and virtual influence, such programs are vital to shielding youth from extremist narratives that misuse religion for political ends.”

El Boukili asserts that the initiative reflects a broader strategy of "spiritual security" pursued by Moroccan authorities. These efforts prioritize Quranic education, moderation, and positive integration within European societies, while reaffirming Morocco’s centuries-old commitment to a balanced, inclusive form of Islam. 




## Reconnecting Roots: Morocco Launches Summer Quran Program for Diaspora Youth

**Over 997 centers nationwide offer spiritual enrichment and combatting doctrin

Morocco launches 997 summer Quran centers for diaspora youth

Morocco launches 997 summer Quran centers for diaspora youth amid religious outreach efforts

## Price Shock: Moroccan Summer Getaways Feel More Like a Budget Breaker

**Rising Costs Leave Diaspora Feeling Exploited and Frustrated**

Many Moroccans living abroad are expressing dismay over the sharp increase in prices across Morocco this summer, saying the cost of basic goods and services has become unreasonable and is impacting their holiday budgets. 

On social media, both Moroccan expats and foreign tourists have voiced similar frustrations. One user posted on Reddit: “Let me tell you the hard truth. Morocco is more expensive than Europe. I was shocked. The prices are insane, even more expensive than Denmark. And everybody is buying, all restaurants are full. Well, you can’t say anything because everybody is outside buying. When people feel injustice they talk, they protest, they boycott. Now I understand that Moroccans are happy about the situation.”

Soufiane Naimi, a 30-year-old Moroccan living in France, echoed this sentiment after arriving in Saidia. “The price of groceries is ridiculous. Why is everything getting expensive by the year? It’s unreasonable considering the average income is low,” he told [publication].  “I’m reconsidering coming here in the summer altogether, spending the summer somewhere else might be cheaper,” he added.

Naimi also expressed feelings of being taken advantage of: “It feels like we’re being taken advantage of. Just because we’re coming from abroad, doesn’t mean we’re rich.”


**Seasonal Demand or Deeper Issues?**

Many Moroccans from the diaspora return every year, especially during July and August, bringing in significant foreign currency and boosting local economies. But this year, complaints about prices have been widespread, particularly in major cities and tourist hotspots like Tangier, Tetouan, Agadir, and Casablanca. 

Economist Mohammed Jadri explained that the surge in prices during the summer is partly due to seasonal demand, especially in touristic areas.  “There is a clear imbalance between supply and demand,” he said. “When thousands of people come back at the same time, it puts pressure on transport, accommodation, food markets, and even basic services. Prices naturally go up.”

Jadri also pointed to deeper structural issues: “Inflation in Morocco hasn’t fully eased. Energy costs, transport, and imported goods are still expensive, and traders adjust their prices accordingly.” He added that unfortunately, some businesses take advantage of the influx of Moroccans abroad, assuming they are willing to pay more.


**Long-Term Impacts Looming**

Jadri warned that if this trend continues, it may discourage many from visiting regularly.  “They are important for the economy. If they feel exploited, they’ll reduce the frequency and duration of their visits, which could hurt local businesses in the long run.” 


## Price Shock: Moroccan Summer Getaways Feel More Like a Budget Breaker

**Rising Costs Leave Diaspora Feeling Exploited and Frustrated**

Many Moroccans livin

#Diaspora

Morocco launches 997 summer Quran centers for diaspora youth amid religious outreach efforts

Moroccans abroad shocked by soaring prices during summer visits