If you’re planning your first trip to Morocco, you’ll quickly discover that it’s a far more liberal country than many other Muslim nations — yet still shaped by traditions, cultural expectations, and a unique legal landscape. To help you avoid unwanted surprises and enjoy a smooth journey, here are the 7 most important things every traveler should know before visiting Morocco.
1. Alcohol in Morocco: What’s Actually Allowed When Visiting Morocco?
Morocco is not a dry country. Alcohol consumption is legal, but tightly regulated.
You can drink in:
- Licensed bars
- Hotels
- Designated restaurants
- The alcohol section of major supermarkets (usually in a separate room)
Attempting to drink or buy alcohol outside these spaces may cause trouble with the police.
Licensed bars typically have no windows — drinking is allowed, but it shouldn’t be visible from the street. A few venues do allow outdoor drinking, and while tourists may drink publicly in select tourist zones, locals legally cannot.
Bringing alcohol into Morocco:
Most travelers safely bring one bottle of wine or spirits. Customs x-ray all luggage, and excess alcohol can lead to problems.
One important note: alcohol in Morocco is expensive due to high taxes. Budget travelers often prefer to bring their own supply.
And remember — zero tolerance for drinking and driving. Use taxis or private transport companies instead.
2. Drugs: Strict Laws With One Exception
Possessing, using, or selling illegal drugs can result in long prison sentences and heavy fines when visiting Morocco. The country has frequent roadside police checks, particularly in the north because of smuggling routes.
Is hashish legal?
Technically no — but it is widely tolerated and extremely common in the Rif Mountains (around Chefchaouen and south of Tangier). Street vendors may offer you hashish in Chefchaouen; a polite “no” is enough.
While tourists rarely get into trouble for small personal use, it is illegal, so caution is essential when visiting Morocco.
3. Dress Code: Especially Important for Women
There’s no strict law governing clothing, but Morocco is more conservative than Europe.
Women will feel safer and attract less attention if they:
- Avoid revealing clothing
- Cover shoulders and legs in non-tourist areas
- Dress modestly in markets, rural towns, religious sites
This isn’t about rules — it’s about comfort and cultural respect.
4. Religious Material: A Sensitive Topic
Morocco allows people to follow any religion privately.
However:
- Handing out Bibles or religious literature is illegal
- Attempting to convert Muslims is a serious offence
If you’re visiting for religious purposes, you must be extremely cautious and understand local law.
5. LGBTQ+ Travelers: Important to Know
Homosexuality is criminalized under Moroccan law.
In reality, most tourists face no issues provided they:
- Avoid public displays of affection
- Stay discreet in more conservative areas
Many LGBTQ+ couples travel safely through Morocco — but awareness of the legal framework is essential.
6. Hotel Rules & Premarital Sex
Legally, sexual relations outside marriage are prohibited.
Here’s how it works in practice:
- Foreign couples can share hotel rooms without any problems.
- Moroccan couples, however, must show a marriage certificate – otherwise hotels may refuse a shared room.
This rule rarely affects tourists.
7. Photography: Be Careful Around Sensitive Areas
Avoid taking photos of:
- Military sites
- Border checkpoints
- Police or soldiers
- Government buildings marked with “no photography” signs
In most cases nothing happens, but it’s an unnecessary risk – always ask before photographing police or military personnel.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
1. Can tourists drink alcohol in Morocco?
Yes, in licensed venues such as hotels, bars, and tourist restaurants. Drinking in public areas is not allowed for locals, and usually discouraged for tourists.
2. Is it safe to bring alcohol into Morocco?
Bringing one bottle is generally accepted. All luggage is scanned, so avoid bringing large quantities.
3. Is hashish legal in Morocco?
No. It is illegal but widely tolerated in certain regions. Tourists should still be cautious.
4. Do women need to wear a headscarf?
No. Modest clothing is recommended, especially outside major tourist cities.
5. Can unmarried foreign couples share a hotel room?
Yes, foreigners can share rooms without restrictions. Moroccans must show proof of marriage.
6. Is Morocco LGBTQ+ friendly?
LGBTQ+ rights are limited under local law, but tourists generally have no issues if discreet.
7. Can I take photos everywhere?
Avoid photographing military areas, border posts, or police without permission.