The status of Western Sahara, a long-contested territory, continues to pose significant challenges for international companies operating in the region.
On July 31, 2025, Airbnb announced changes to how it lists certain cities in the disputed area on its platform, reflecting mounting pressure to align with international legal rulings.
Previously, cities such as Boujdour and Dakhla were categorized under Morocco on Airbnb. However, international courts have explicitly ruled that Western Sahara is not under Moroccan sovereignty.
In response to these rulings and growing advocacy, Airbnb updated its mapping data, removing Morocco’s designation from listings in these locations, according to reports by Africa Intelligence.
This development follows a formal memo sent to Airbnb on June 13, 2025, by the Western Sahara Resource Watch (WSRW), which flagged “significant errors” in the geographical representation of Western Sahara.
The organization urged Airbnb to suspend all accommodation listings in the disputed territory.
Erik Hagen, spokesperson for WSRW, described Airbnb’s move as “a first step forward,” though he cautioned that the presence of ongoing listings indicates the challenge of full compliance remains.
Airbnb’s adjustments could influence other online travel platforms, which face increasing calls to update their content to reflect geopolitical sensitivities and international legal standards.
The Western Sahara case highlights the growing responsibility digital companies bear in managing politically charged content, moving beyond mere commercial concerns.
Despite the recent revisions, the continued availability of listings in Western Sahara underscores the complexity of applying international law to digital maps and platforms.
The dispute between Morocco and the Polisario Front—who advocate for self-determination of the territory—remains unresolved, and these tensions reverberate through global business practices.
This episode serves as a critical reminder of the need for multinational tech companies to adopt responsible policies when navigating volatile political landscapes. Airbnb’s recent changes mark a significant milestone, sparking broader discussion about the role of digital giants in mediating international territorial disputes.
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