Mass migrant influx to Ceuta turns into swift exodus back to Morocco

The mass influx of migrants into Spain's North African enclave of Ceuta has reversed just as quickly, with tens of thousands who crossed the border now returning to Morocco.

At the Tarajal border crossing, hundreds pass by every few minutes. The initial joy of reaching European soil through the border has given way to despair. Dozens have lost their lives.

The latest influx saw more than 50,000 undocumented migrants enter Ceuta, many by swimming around the Tarajal border crossing or using makeshift flotation devices. At least 67 people died during the crossings, with the death toll expected to rise as search and recovery operations continue.

Iman is injured, and she lost daughters in the chaos swimming at sea.

"I'm here with my son, but I don't know where my daughters are, their names are Aya and Malak, I don't know where they are," Iman cried.

By Aug. 1, more than 48,000 migrants had returned to Morocco. None were allowed to travel onward to mainland Spain under Ceuta's special Schengen arrangements, and authorities said the immediate pressure at the border had largely eased.

Spain has since reinforced security by installing a new floating maritime barrier along Ceuta's breakwater. The 500-meter inflatable barrier is designed to prevent migrants from bypassing land border controls by sea.

At the same time, Madrid and Rabat have intensified cooperation on returns and law enforcement while stepping up efforts against migrant-smuggling networks.

Moroccan authorities said they had arrested 70 people suspected of organizing or participating in violence linked to the mass crossing.

Ceuta is one of Spain's two exclaves on the North African coast, alongside Melilla. Although geographically located in Africa, it forms part of the EU's external border. Its location has long made it one of Europe's most sensitive migration gateways. For years, undocumented migrants have attempted to reach the enclave by climbing border fences or swimming around coastal barriers before trying to continue to mainland Spain and other parts of Europe.

Spain and Morocco have expanded cooperation in recent years on border control, migrant returns and efforts to combat human trafficking and smuggling networks.

Mass migrant influx to Ceuta turns into swift exodus back to Morocco

Fueled by expanded visa waiver policies and improved visitor services, Shanghai's inbound tourism is surging this summer.

Beyond shopping, growing numbers of international visitors are embracing the "China Chic" trend, exploring revitalized historic landmarks and time-honored brands to experience the city's rich cultural heritage and modern evolution.

Along Nanjing Road, the century-old eyewear brand Wu Liangcai Optical has partnered with the Shanghai Museum’s summer exhibition, Ancient Civilizations of the Americas.

Its nearly 1,000-square-meter flagship store has been transformed into a vibrant cultural destination, blending retail with art to attract overseas visitors.

"So I think the idea is very nice, like to put the whole kind of traditional Maya into merchandise, it's very interesting. And I think the design is very nice as well. I think it's the first time I ever taste corn ice cream, and it's very nice, delicate, not too sweet, very good. See the culture, the food, the people, I think that's the most interesting thing. So, I think I would expect in China, in a city like Shanghai to see all the cultures, to see all the things," said James, a visitor from Britain.

Nearby, a historic building on the Bund is hosting an immersive Song Dynasty (960-1279) exhibition, combining classical paintings, life-sized sets, and dynamic light installations to offer international visitors a deeper appreciation of China's cultural heritage.

"The most I like was the Sun Wukong, because it's one of the most famous in the international places. Yeah, I really like how the Chinese they can put all the products, they can make art with the culture, and then they can spread in the world. Also, the foreigners they can enjoy about the books, the stories about China, and I really like it so much," said Torres, a Chilean visitor.

These innovative cultural attractions are encouraging visitors to stay longer and explore the city more extensively.

In the first half of 2026, Shanghai received over 5 million inbound overnight visitors, marking a 31 percent increase compared with the same period last year.

Fresh cultural experiences boost Shanghai's inbound tourism