Morocco

Ramadan is a holy month for Muslims. The dates vary by year and country, next starting in February 2027. During this time, eating or drinking, swearing, smoking or chewing gum in public in the daytime may cause offence.

Get more advice when you arrive from your tour guide, hotel or business contacts, where applicable. You should also: 

• check opening hours of shops and restaurants
• be aware that hotels and restaurants serving food or drink in fasting hours may separate you from Muslim guests, for example with screens
• follow local dress codes – clothing that does not meet local dress codes may cause more offence at this time
• be aware that fasting can cause tiredness, particularly during the later afternoon and early evening

• be patient and show tolerance

• be aware that driving may be erratic, particularly when people are trying to get home at dusk.

It is illegal to attempt to convert a Muslim to another faith and to distribute evangelical literature (such as Arabic-language bibles). Attempting to convert a Muslim to another faith can result in fines or up to 3 years’ imprisonment.

Public criticism of Islam, including in speeches, print or online media, can result in heavy fines and up 2 years’ imprisonment.

Sexual activity between unmarried people and adultery are illegal for Moroccan nationals – this includes sharing a hotel room, particularly with foreign nationals.

The law regarding unmarried people sharing a hotel room does not generally apply to visiting foreign nationals, particularly in popular tourist areas.

Avoid showing affection in public, particularly near religious sites as well as in tourist areas.

Using dating applications in Morocco may break laws relating to sexual relations outside of marriage. Be aware of the legal and personal safety risks when using these applications.

Same-sex sexual relations are illegal in Morocco. Showing affection in public can lead to prosecution. Meeting people through online applications, can carry legal, personal safety and privacy risks.

See more advice for LGBT+ travellers.

Alcohol is available in licensed venues. However, drinking alcohol in the street and anywhere other than a licensed restaurant or bar is illegal and can lead to arrest. Travellers should respect local laws and customs at all times.

Morocco has a zero-tolerance approach towards drugs. Possessing, using or trafficking illegal drugs, including cannabis, are serious offences and carry severe penalties.

You should expect a long jail sentence and heavy fines for these actions, including when transiting through the country. Airports in Morocco are equipped with technology and security for detecting items prohibited by customs controls, including for the baggage or transiting passengers. Do not accept items from strangers or leave your bags attended.

Women may receive unwanted attention in Morocco, especially when travelling alone. Consider wearing loose-fitting clothing which cover the arms, legs and chest. See advice for woman travellers abroad.

It is illegal to take photographs near sensitive political or military sites. Always ask permission before taking pictures of people, especially children.

It is illegal to possess pornographic material. This includes printed and digital material, and any type of material contrary to Moroccan laws related to morality and public order.

If you plan to bring a drone to Morocco, you must get permission from the Directorate General for Civil Aviation (in French) to fly a drone. If you do not, you risk fines and confiscation of your equipment.

Earthquakes are a risk in Morocco. The last major earthquake, in 2023, killed almost 3,000 people. There are occasional minor earthquakes. Familiarise yourself with earthquake safety procedures and any instructions in hotel rooms.

In the event of an earthquake, stay away from walls, windows, trees, signs. It is safer to stand in open spaces or shelter under heavy furniture or in a door threshold. The US Federal Emergency Management Agency website has advice about what to do before, during and after an earthquake.

Heavy rain can cause flash flooding in some areas, particularly in the mountains or near rivers during winter months. Walking and driving can be dangerous in flooded areas. If you’re near a flood, monitor local media and follow instructions from local authorities.