Alcohol in Morocco: Culture, Regulations, and Changing Trends - A Comprehensive Guide (2024)

FAQs

What are the drinking laws in Morocco? ›

The legal drinking age in Morocco is 18, but enforcement can vary by location. Tourists should always carry identification when purchasing alcohol or entering establishments that serve it.

Rabat - Morocco ranks 11th on a list of countries that have the least amount of alcohol consumption. According to data from the Global Health Observatory cited in a report from Insider Monkey, nearly 95% of Moroccans do not consume alcohol.

Possessing p*rnographic material is also illegal. Understand and follow local laws. Morocco has strict laws around religion, the monarchy, alcohol, drug use, photography, p*rnography and drone use. Morocco recognises dual nationality, but Moroccan citizenship takes precedence.

Nightclubs and bars close during Ramadan, and the serving and consumption of alcohol are legally banned. Some Muslims have made it a habit to abstain from alcohol 40 days before the date of Ramadan.

“Mint tea is Morocco's national beverage and favourite pastime. Steeped in ritual and ceremony, it is always served to a guest when in a home or shop. Even a family without electricity, furniture, or an adequate roof will likely own a silver tray and pot for serving tea.

It's illegal to smoke indoors at a public place such as a restaurant, cafe or bar. All but the cheapest snack places will enforce this but bars generally don't. Smoking is forbidden in shops, government buildings, cop shops. However, the cops often smoke in the station.

Mint tea. Morocco's signature drink is more than refreshing. Mint tea is served with reverence, as a gesture of hospitality and welcome that warms both the mouth and the heart.

However, alcohol is expensive in Morocco due to taxes, so it will be much more cost-effective for you to bring alcohol with you from your home country if you are on a budget and plan to drink during your time in Morocco.

Is water safe to drink in Morocco? Generally speaking, it's best to drink filtered water when travelling in Morocco. Most locals will drink tap water, and some travellers may take the risk, but you wouldn't want a stomach bug to stop you from having a good time in a new country.

Gestures. If you need to beckon someone, don't use your index finger to motion a person over, as this is considered very rude in Moroccan culture. Instead, place your palm downward and sweep the hand toward yourself.

What is inappropriate in Morocco? ›

Don'ts: Display Public Affection: Public displays of affection, such as kissing or hugging, are considered inappropriate in Moroccan culture. It's best to keep physical affection for private settings and show respect for local customs.

Morocco has lèse–majesté laws, which means that it is a criminal offence to speak badly of the king. Reported acts that occurred in private usually result in a prison sentence of a year. If remarks are made publicly, the sentence is typically increased to three years. If you can't say anything nice, don't say anything!

Despite the religious restriction, alcohol is nonetheless a part of Moroccan culture, especially in urban and tourist areas. You may find alcoholic beverage-serving bars, hotels, and restaurants in major towns like Casablanca, Marrakech, and Tangier that appeal to both locals and tourists.

Yes you can buy alcohol in some supermarkets (Carrefour is the best option as some of the Moroccan supermarkets have decided to stop selling alcohol recently) and there are even a growing number of off licenses in Marrakech (Victoria is a growing chain and there are others popping up) - but these are all in the New ...

Alcohol is served in many restaurants and bars, although the consumption of alcohol outside is strictly forbidden, including on outdoor terraces in the street. Most larger supermarkets will have a good size 'Le Cave' area selling wine, beer and spirits.

Morocco allows the consumption of alcohol. Alcohol must be purchased and consumed in licensed hotels, bars, and tourist areas. You can also buy alcohol in most major supermarkets. The alcohol section is usually in a separate room from the main supermarket.

Morocco has several cities with vibrant nightlife scenes beyond Rabat and Marrakesh. Here are some of the top Moroccan cities known for their lively nightlife: Casablanca: As the largest city in Morocco, Casablanca has a diverse range of nightlife options, from chic rooftop bars to trendy nightclubs.

Display Public Affection: Public displays of affection, such as kissing or hugging, are considered inappropriate in Moroccan culture. It's best to keep physical affection for private settings and show respect for local customs.

You could find a local bar where a bottle would cost from 12 to 15 Dirhams. More up-market prices would be from 25 to 70 Dirhams. Supermarket prices are obviously the best with a 500ml can of Flag Pils (Moroccan beer and very nice too!) around 15 Dirhams.