Casablanca Morocco Travel Tips

Title: Travel & Cultural Etiquette Tips for Tourists in Casablanca, Morocco

1. Greetings and Meeting People

  • In Morocco, greet people with a firm handshake, maintain eye contact, and use the formal “Vous” or “Mr.”/“Mme.” until invited to use first names.
  • Muslim women may not shake hands with men, especially if they are unacquainted.
  • Arabs typically greet each other by saying “Assalamu alaikum” (peace be upon you) and responding with “Wa’alaikum assalam” (and upon you peace).

2. Dress Code

  • Casual, modest clothing is appropriate for tourists. Cover your shoulders and knees to avoid unwanted attention.
  • Women should consider wearing a headscarf when visiting religious sites or areas with conservative communities.
  • Avoid wearing revealing clothes in public places as it can be offensive.

3. Tipping (Gratuities)

  • Tips are expected in Morocco for various services, such as restaurants, taxis, and hotels. A tip of around 10% is common in restaurants.
  • Carry small change, as it’s customary to round up the bill when paying for meals or services.

4. Customs and Courtesies

  • Remove your shoes before entering a mosque or someone’s home.
  • Use your right hand for gestures involving food, shaking hands, or giving gifts, as the left hand is considered unclean in Islam.
  • Avoid touching someone’s head, as it is sacred in Islamic culture.

5. Haggling (Bargaining)

  • Haggling is an essential part of shopping in Casablanca’s souks and markets. Keep a cool demeanor while negotiating prices.
  • Start by offering a lower price than what you are willing to pay, then work upwards towards an agreement.
  • Remember that vendors expect bargaining, so don’t be afraid to walk away if a reasonable compromise isn’t reached.

6. Photography

  • Be respectful when taking photographs of people, especially in religious or remote areas where privacy is valued. Always ask for permission before taking someone’s photo.
  • Avoid photographing police stations, military installations, and other sensitive government buildings without explicit permission.

7. Food and Drink

  • Casablanca offers a rich culinary scene with dishes like tagine, couscous, harira soup, and pastilla.
  • Street food vendors are common in Casablanca; while some offer tasty, authentic food, others may pose health risks. Use your discretion when choosing where to eat.
  • Alcohol is available in bars, hotels, and tourist areas but is less common in Muslim areas due to religious restrictions.

8. Respect for Islamic Culture

  • Ramadan is a holy month for Muslims, during which daytime eating, drinking, smoking, and chewing gum are prohibited from dawn to sunset. Tourists should be mindful of this and avoid eating, drinking, or smoking in public during the day during Ramadan.
  • Dress modestly when visiting mosques or religious sites, and remove your shoes before entering. Women should also cover their hair with a headscarf.