Laayoune Warnings Or Dangers

Laayoune has been under Moroccan occupation since 1975, and as far as you are concerned, you are in Morocco. This is not the place to come and wave your Western Sahara flags, as you will get into serious trouble. The Sahraouis do occasionally demonstrate against the occupation, but if you hear of this happening, go elsewhere. If you don't, the police will ask you to move anyway, so save yourself the hassle. I came close to witnessing a demonstration, shortly after Friday prayers by the great mosque, but the area was quickly cordoned off.

Talking about local politics is not the way to make friends in Laayoune.

On a side note, keep your passport with you at all times. As Laayoune can feel a bit like one large army garrison at times, you never know when you might stray into a military area by accident, or run into a checkpoint (e.g., if you climb the dunes and walk along the ridge on the other side, you might need to show your passport and answer a few questions at the bridge back into Laayoune).