Morocco is a country rich in culture, history, and tradition. For travelers, it’s important to understand local customs and etiquette to ensure respectful and culturally sensitive interactions. This guide will help you navigate social norms and behaviors during your visit to Morocco.
Greetings and Introductions
Greetings are a big part of Moroccan culture. The most common greeting is “Salaam Alaikum”, which means “Peace be upon you”. The response is “Wa Alaikum Salaam”, meaning “And peace be upon you as well”. These are great ways to start any interaction.
When meeting someone, especially in a formal setting, shaking hands is normal. However, note that people of the same gender typically shake hands. If you’re unsure, wait for the other person to extend their hand first. Between men and women, a handshake might not happen at all due to conservative beliefs, so it’s polite to follow their lead.
In casual settings, locals may greet each other with cheek kisses. This varies depending on the region, but usually friends of the same gender kiss on both cheeks more than once.
Using Names
Formal titles are important in Morocco. It’s common to refer to people as “sidi” (sir) or “lalla” (madam). If you know someone’s job title or a formal way to address them, always use it. Avoid using first names until you’ve been invited to do so.
Dress Code
Morocco is an Islamic country, so it’s best to dress modestly, especially in more rural areas. For men, wearing long trousers and avoiding sleeveless shirts in public is a safe bet. For women, covering shoulders and avoiding revealing clothes is recommended.
While you don’t need to wear traditional Moroccan attire, being respectful of local customs will earn appreciation from locals. In cities like Marrakech or Casablanca, you’ll find that people are more relaxed about dress codes. However, when visiting religious sites such as mosques, ensure you are fully covered, and women should bring a scarf to cover their head.
Religious Customs
Islam is the dominant religion in Morocco, and it influences many aspects of daily life. You’ll hear the call to prayer (“adhan”) five times a day, reminding Muslims to pray. It’s always respectful to remain quiet during these calls, especially near mosques.
Ramadan
If you visit during Ramadan, the holy month of fasting, be mindful that many Moroccans won’t eat, drink, or smoke during daylight hours. It’s respectful to avoid drinking or eating in public spaces during this time to show solidarity with those fasting.
Many restaurants and cafes will still be open but with limited hours during Ramadan fasting hours. Keeping this in mind will help you plan better and be considerate of local traditions.
Social Etiquette
When invited to a Moroccan home, it’s polite to bring a small gift like pastries or dates. Always make sure to remove your shoes before entering someone’s home unless told otherwise.
Eating Etiquette
Meals in Morocco are often communal, with everyone eating from the same large dish, typically using their hands or bread. The right hand is used for eating, and it’s seen as impolite to use the left hand for this purpose. Don’t forget to wash your hands before eating; it’s a standard practice in Moroccan households.
Wait until the host gives a signal to start eating. It’s also customary to say “Bismillah” before eating, meaning “In the name of God”. Knowing this phrase always makes a positive impression.
Bargaining in Markets
Bargaining is a common practice in Moroccan souks (markets). Don’t be afraid to haggle, but keep it good-natured. Prices aren’t fixed, and negotiating is part of the buying experience. Start with half of the asking price and work your way up.
The most important thing to remember is to respect the seller. If you aren’t happy with the final price, it’s fine to walk away without buying. Just do so politely with a smile.
Gender Roles and Behavior
Morocco is a traditional society, and gender roles are more conservative than in many Western countries. Public displays of affection, like kissing or holding hands, especially between men and women, are generally frowned upon. Couples should avoid overt signs of affection in public places.
Interacting with Women
If you are a male traveler, be respectful when interacting with Moroccan women, especially in conservative areas. Unwanted attention or advances are considered disrespectful. Female travelers might receive some attention in the form of looks or occasional comments, but it’s best to ignore it and avoid confrontation.
Tipping Etiquette
Tipping (“baksheesh”) is a common practice in Morocco. In restaurants, it’s standard to leave a tip of about 10%. You should also tip porters, guides, and hotel staff. Offering a few dirhams for small services will be appreciated.
Being Mindful as a Tourist
It’s important to be mindful of when and where you take photographs. In some places, locals may not appreciate having their pictures taken, especially women and religious sites. Always ask for permission before snapping photos of individuals.
Also, some places may ask for a small fee in exchange for being photographed, especially in more tourist-heavy areas. Be prepared for this and ready to negotiate if needed.
Conclusion
Morocco is a warm and welcoming country, but being mindful of local customs and traditions is key to a respectful and enjoyable visit. Demonstrating respect for Moroccan customs will help you connect with locals and have a more enriching experience during your trip.
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