Is pickpocketing common in Marrakech?

Yes, pickpocketing is quite common in Marrakech, particularly in crowded tourist areas like the Jemaa el-Fnaa square and the narrow streets of the Medina and souks. While violent crime is rare, petty theft, including bag-snatching and phone theft, is a regular concern for tourists.

Is pickpocketing an issue in Marrakech?

Petty crime is common in tourist areas, especially in historical districts (medina quarters) and on beaches. Crimes include: pickpocketing.

What to be wary of in Marrakech?

Comments Section

• Do NOT get henna in the main squares.
• Do not engage with people who offer you directions, say they know a shortcut, tell you they will walk you back to you your hotel, anything.
• Take opaque sunglasses.
• Our guides told us not to get orange juice, etc from the town squares.

Can tourists hold hands in Marrakech?

In Morocco, kissing, hugging and holding hands in public is generally an expression of mutual affection without a sexual context and is therefore commonplace between friends and relatives of the same sex. However, this behavior is not welcomed among lovers.

Is Marrakech safe for British tourists?

Yes, Marrakech is generally safe for British tourists, with millions visiting without issues, but visitors need to be vigilant against petty crime (pickpocketing, scams) and be aware of the general terrorism threat, requiring caution in crowded areas, especially at night, while respecting local conservative culture. The UK government's Foreign Office (FCDO) advises vigilance due to terrorism risks, though not specifically avoiding travel to Marrakech, urging common-sense precautions. 

PICKPOCKETED in MARRAKESH - Morocco Scam

Can females wear shorts in Marrakesh?

Yes, women can wear shorts in Marrakech, especially longer, looser styles like culottes or mid-thigh shorts, but it's best to avoid very short or tight styles (like "hot pants") in public areas to be respectful and minimize unwanted attention, reserving them for private hotels or resorts; a light scarf is a great accessory for covering shoulders or legs when needed. While you'll see tourists in shorts, balancing modesty with comfort is key, so pairing them with a modest top and keeping a shawl handy for mosques or very traditional spots is recommended. 

What is the rule 490 in Morocco?

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.

What are the unspoken rules in Morocco?

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.

Can I show my shoulders in Marrakesh?

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.

Can I brush my teeth with tap water in Marrakech?

Yes, you can use tap water in Morocco to brush your teeth without worry. Bacteria and contaminants in the water may not have much of an impact when used for brushing, not drinking.

What is frowned upon in Morocco?

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.

Do you get hassled in Marrakech?

While violent crime is highly unlikely and petty crime possible but still rare, the chances of being verbally hassled by locals is high. We'd say the likelihood is around 100%.

Are muggings common in Morocco?

Petty crime, such as pickpocketing and bag snatching, is common. Tourists have been mugged when walking at night. Keep your belongings close.

How to carry money in Morocco?

Tips for Handling Money in Morocco

It's advisable to carry small denominations for everyday transactions. Major credit and debit cards (Visa, MasterCard, and American Express) are accepted in most hotels, restaurants, and shops. However, smaller establishments and markets may only accept cash.

Why can't you use your left hand in Morocco?

Don't use your left hand while eating or giving

In Moroccan culture, the left hand is traditionally considered unclean. (In Islamic tradition, the left hand is used for cleaning oneself after using the toilet, while the right hand is reserved for eating, greeting, and giving or receiving items.)

Is $50 a lot in Morocco?

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. 

Can I hold hands with my wife in Morocco?

Holding hands is fine, and common, but going for the full on snog in public or stroking each other as you sip mint tea outside a cafe will get the local tongues clicking. So, keep the cuddles for the kasbah. Along with 73 other countries, homosexuality is illegal in Morocco, although arrests are very rare.

Why is it illegal to take dirhams out of Morocco?

You can take up to 2,000 Moroccan dirham into or out of Morocco. The dirham is 'non-convertible' – it cannot be easily exchanged for other currencies . You must declare foreign currency worth 100,000 Moroccan dirham or more (about 10,000 US dollars) when you enter or leave the country.

Can unmarried couples stay in a hotel together in Morocco?

Yes, foreign unmarried couples can generally share the same hotel room in Morocco. It's a popular tourist destination, and the hospitality industry knows the ways of the world.

What can you not bring into Morocco?

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. E. Exchange controls : 1) Moroccan currency may be imported in amounts not exceeding 1,000 dirhams.

Is sleeveless ok in Morocco?

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).