The Moroccan government has taken decisive steps to modernize travel documents and regulate urban mobility. In a recent session held in Rabat, the Council of Government approved two critical decrees aimed at enhancing security for Moroccan passports and establishing clear guidelines for electric scooters.
Next-Generation Biometric Passports to Combat Fraud
One of the decrees revises the 2008 framework governing biometric passports, introducing a new generation equipped with advanced security features. This initiative, spearheaded by Interior Minister Abdelouafi Laftit, seeks to strengthen protection against fraud while reinforcing national identity representation.
The updated passport system will be rolled out gradually, with currently valid biometric passports remaining acceptable until their phased replacement. A joint ministerial order from the Interior and Foreign Affairs ministries will outline the issuance procedures for the new documents.
Electric Scooters Face Strict Regulations
In parallel, the government has moved to regulate the rapidly growing use of electric scooters, which have proliferated across Moroccan cities. The new decree amends the Road Traffic Code to include these personal mobility devices, setting clear operational boundaries.
The key provisions include:
- Speed limit: Electric scooters are now restricted to a maximum of 25 km/h to ensure road safety.
- Mandatory helmet use: Riders must wear certified helmets while operating these vehicles.
- No audio devices: Using headphones or earphones while riding is prohibited to maintain situational awareness.
- Age restrictions: Children under eight years old are barred from using scooters on public roads. Special equipment will be required for transporting young children safely.
Balancing Innovation with Public Safety
Government officials emphasize that these measures are designed to create a legal framework that supports the surge in alternative urban transportation methods. By establishing these rules, authorities aim to mitigate accident risks while fostering sustainable mobility solutions in Morocco’s urban centers.
