While you can technically wear a tank top in tourist-heavy areas of Morocco, it is generally advised against, especially for women, to avoid unwanted attention and show respect for the conservative culture. Opt for loose-fitting, breathable tops that cover shoulders and upper arms, keeping tank tops for hotels or beach resorts.
You can also wear sleeveless tops, round or v-necks won't matter as long as they're not too plunging or revealing. If possible, avoid spaghetti straps (unless you're going out in the evening) even if most people won't mind it. Sleeveless can be fine if you keep a scarf around (see my note on scarves below).
One of the most fascinating aspects of the country is its rich cultural history – and naturally, this has an impact on what the locals wear. While Morocco doesn't have a dress code as such, it is a religious and conservative country so it's important to respect this when it comes to what to wear as a tourist.
Rule of thumb: keep shoulders and knees covered away from hotels and beaches, choose lightweight fabrics that breathe, and carry a scarf or light layer for cool evenings, sun and dust. Non-Muslim visitors do not need to cover their hair as standard, but modest dress is expected in religious spaces.
Rather, the clothes should be loose fitting. Hence, tight jeans and tank tops are definitely out. So, what is permissible is a loose fitting covering to the wrists and ankles (with a high neckline) and which does not emphasize the figure.
Behaviors frowned upon in Morocco include public drunkenness, disrespecting prayer times, refusing hospitality, taking photos of people without permission, and ignoring local dress norms especially in smaller towns and religious areas.
Stay away from strappy tank tops. If you are wearing pants, you will want a longer shirt. We have seen that Moroccan women tend to wear shirts that cover to their upper thigh when they wear pants, especially if the pants are tighter. You'll also want to stay away from low cut shirts.
Article 490: Every sexual relation between a man and a woman not bound by wedlock is a crime of corruption punished by imprisonment from a month up to a year.
Pay extra attention to your personal hygiene! Do not swim and surf on the beach right in front of Taghazout, but rather swerve a few hundred meters. Keep your distance from others if someone else has the stomach flu. Avoid eating meat (chicken!) and drinking tap water where possible.
Prohibited goods : The importation of the following goods is prohibited : - arms and ammunition, - narcotic drugs, - writings, printed documents, recorded cassettes and video-cassettes and all items contrary to morality and public order.
Q: Can I wear a long sleeve off shoulder Muslim top with a regular hijab? A: Yes, provided the top has sufficient neckline coverage and doesn't rely solely on exposed shoulders. Pair it with a snug undercap and a draped hijab for full modesty.
Yes, you can wear leggings. However, and especially in rural areas, pair leggings with a longer tunic length top that covers your butt. Yes, you also can wear ripped jeans. If you have jeans that are ripped in more non-discreet places they might not be the best choice.
Linen and cotton are good options for the heat, but cotton does not dry well in high humidity. Athletic wear designed to absorb sweat and stay dry is a better option for humid days. Remember that short shorts, crop tops and tank tops are not considered appropriate attire in Morocco.
Morocco is a Muslim country, you should aim to dress in a respectful way. Avoid public displays of affection (hand holding is ok but kissing is a no-no). If approached by people selling things and you don't want to buy anything just politely say "no thanks" (in Moroccan "Laa, Shokran"), smile and walk on.
Yes, most travelers can safely brush their teeth with tap water in Morocco. However, if you have a sensitive stomach or are immunocompromised, using bottled or filtered water for brushing is a safer option.
Yes, $50 (around 500 Moroccan Dirhams) is a good amount in Morocco, enough for a full day of budget to mid-range travel, covering meals, local transport, and small activities, though costs vary; it's very budget-friendly for tourists but can cover significant expenses like tours or nice meals for locals, making it feel like a lot for daily spending.
Unspoken rules in Morocco emphasize modesty, respect, and hospitality, requiring you to dress conservatively (shoulders/knees covered), use your right hand for eating/giving, ask before taking photos, show affection discreetly, always accept mint tea, and treat bread with reverence, never wasting it. Showing patience, avoiding public displays of affection (kissing), removing shoes indoors, and being mindful during Ramadan are also key cultural expectations.
The "3 Bra Rule" is a guideline recommending you own at least three bras for a healthy rotation: one to wear, one in the laundry, and one in the drawer (resting), which helps the elastic recover and extends the life of your bras by preventing daily wear. Rotating them gives the elastic a full day to regain its shape, keeping bras supportive and fitting better for longer, avoiding the need to wear the same one two days in a row.
