What to wear in Morocco?

Because Morocco is a muslim country and now also a major tourist destination, I am often asked the question of what to wear in Morocco from our travellers. Is it ok to just wear what you would on holiday or is it necessary to respect certain cultural customs?

Variable Weather

Having travelled extensively throughout, from Marrakech to the depths of the Sahara desert, I can say that what you wear will be dependent on your location, the climate and whether you are male or female. The seasons are quite clear cut in terms of temperature but there is always the chance of rain or a cool evening in the summer and also the chance of being bitten at sunset so something a bit thicker to keep you warm and cotton long sleeves and trousers are a great idea.

Covering Up

Generally, in Moroccan culture women cover up their legs and arms and heads with a headscarf. It is not necessary to wear a headscarf but I find you will gain respect and feel more comfortable if you at least cover your shoulders and knees. Marrakech is a modern city where these rules are loosened in many cases but as soon as you drive out on one of our 4×4 Tours into the Atlas Mountains, local Berber villages or down into the Sahara Desert, women are more modest in terms of dress. Men tend to wear a combination of European and more traditional dress throughout Morocco, so there are no changes needed for men travelling through the country.

Written by Moroccan Journeys

Rebecca grew up in Africa and has spent her life travelling and working in the UK and around the world in both the corporate and personal development fields. She is co-founder of Moroccan Journeys with Mohamed Elhaoissi and lives in the UK and Morocco. She believes in the conscious management of business and the importance of personal growth. Rebecca is also a Reiki Master Teacher and runs Intensive Reiki Journeys in the Sahara desert. She spends her free time exploring the untouched parts of Morocco to ensure Moroccan Journeys is eclectic and unique in its offering.