Laayoune

Laayoune is the largest city in Western Sahara, a region in North Africa. It functions as the administrative and economic center of the territory, which is claimed by both Morocco and the Sahrawi Arab Democratic Republic. The city has grown rapidly due to Moroccan development and infrastructure investments. Laayoune features a desert climate, with hot summers and mild winters. Its economy relies mainly on phosphate mining, fishing, and administrative services. The city plays a key role in the political and territorial debates surrounding Western Sahara's status.