Morocco is an exotic country to visit with friendly hospitable people. Travelers will have a better trip if they take the time to learn a few rules of etiquette for Morocco. Respecting Moroccan's customs can avoid causing offence and ensure a great trip.
Basic Etiquette for Morocco Travel
The languages spoken in Morocco are Arabic, French and Berber. Travelers who know some basic French will be able to communicate easily throughout Morocco. Greetings in Morocco are generally done with a handshake. Even with business interactions there is a gentle handshake and friendly chit-chat before working. When people get to know each other, it is common to greet with a two cheeked kiss. Generally, this greeting is conducted men to men and women to women.
Bargaining is the Moroccan way and not reserved for tourists. It occurs in the souks, medina and all other stores, as well. It is expected and merchants won't be happy if travelers don't want to bargain. A sense of humor is important and always remain polite, even when you walk away.
Tourists in Morocco should not dress too provocatively. For a full article on clothing guidelines read What to Wear – Advice for Morocco, North Africa.
Tourist Photography and Tipping in Morocco
Photos – Don't take photos of people in Morocco without asking permission. Some don't mind, some want money but a surprising amount of people will firmly refuse. Respect the wishes of the people who don't want to be photographed, there are plenty of other residents who are cooperative.
Tipping – Tips are welcome (and expected in the tourism industry) in Morocco. 10 percent or 5-10 Dirhams is usually sufficient for waiters, drivers, guides and porters. Place the funds directly in the hands of the recipient instead of leaving it on a table.
Dinner Etiquette and Table Manners
Moroccans are hospitable people and it is not uncommon for travelers to receive dinner invitations. It is important not to offend the hosts.
- Hostess Gifts – It is customary to bring a gift of candy or pastries to a host when accepting a dinner invitation. The cities have many good pastry shops for gift buying. It will be more difficult in the country, so having a little gift on hand is a good idea.
- Shoes – It is expected to remove one's shoes when entering a guest's home. It would be offensive to walk into a home without taking footwear off.
- Eating – Eat food with the right hand, as the left is meant for personal hygiene. This is a good idea generally in Morocco, but especially if invited to someone's home. In a private home, a meal may be served from a communal bowl and without utensils (or even plates). Guests are to take the food from the main dish with the aid of a piece of bread.
- Hand Washing – In a Moroccan home hand washing is done together at the table with a basin and jug. Just wash hands over the basin as the host pours water out of the jug. A towel will be offered for drying.
- Mint tea – Mint tea is an important part of Moroccan hospitality. If mint tea is offered, it is impolite to refuse. Don't worry about not liking the tea, it is served with plenty of sugar that can be added to one's taste. Mint tea is not only served at meal time, it is a friendly social event.
Traveling to Morocco is a great cultural experience. Following some easy etiquette and custom guidelines will ensure a trip free of awkward situations. Respect of local norms will reward a traveler with good cultural exchange opportunities.
Linda Wongkee - Linda is an online and print author. She writes about travel and education, her two passions!!
