King Felipe VI and Queen Letizia to visit Ceuta

King Felipe VI and Queen Letizia are scheduled to visit the Spanish exclave of Ceuta on Tuesday, October 13, 2026. This marks the first visit by the monarchs to the North African territory.

The visit follows a migration crisis that began in late July when approximately 80,000 people crossed from Morocco into the city due to online rumors regarding border openings. While most people left shortly after arriving, up to 15,000 migrants remained in Ceuta. This influx has strained the city of 80,000 residents and created tension between the local Christian and Muslim populations.

Many of the remaining migrants are staying in Muslim neighborhoods, sleeping in doorways, on streets, or in makeshift camps and centers managed by local residents and NGOs. According to reports from La Croix, the royal visit is intended to help soothe the trauma caused by the massive arrival of migrants this summer.