The visit by the Spanish King and Queen to the Spanish exclaves of Ceuta and Melilla in North Africa is occurring despite reservations from both the Moroccan and Spanish governments. Both Madrid and Rabat recognize the visit has become unavoidable following the summer’s migration crisis and the ongoing Spanish election campaign. The timing is considered a delicate political calculation for both nations. The self-governing Spanish cities of Ceuta and Melilla are points of contention in the relationship between Spain and Morocco. The visit is likely intended to signal Spain’s continued sovereignty over these territories. It remains to be seen how Morocco will officially respond to the royal visit and its symbolic implications.