You want to go to morocco and you wondring , what are Moroccan Customs and Traditions ? here is our expert for you :
Stepping into Morocco is like entering a living tapestry of vibrant colors, captivating sounds, and rich history. Beyond the stunning landscapes and bustling medinas lies a culture deeply rooted in tradition, hospitality, and religion. Understanding a few key customs will not only help you avoid unintentional faux pas but will also open doors to warmer, more genuine interactions with the local people.
Here is your essential guide to the customs and traditions every visitor should know before traveling to Morocco.
Moroccan Customs and Traditions :
1) The Art of the Greeting: “Salaam Alaikum”
In Morocco, a greeting is never rushed. The most common greeting you will hear and use is “As-salaam alaikum”, which means “Peace be upon you.” The proper response is “Wa alaikum as-salaam” (“And upon you, peace”).
Handshakes are common, but always use your right hand. However, the greeting often goes further than a simple handshake. Among friends and after initial introductions, it’s common for men to follow the handshake with a light kiss on each cheek. When a man greets a woman, or a woman greets a woman, it is often the woman who will initiate a handshake. If she does not, a simple verbal greeting and a slight bow of the head are perfectly polite.
2) Dress Modestly to Show Respect
Morocco is a Muslim country, and modesty in dress is highly valued. While major cities like Marrakech and Casablanca are used to tourists, dressing conservatively is a sign of respect for the local culture and will help you feel more comfortable and receive less unwanted attention.
For women, this means covering your shoulders, cleavage, and knees. Loose-fitting, long skirts, trousers, and tops are ideal. Packing a light scarf is incredibly useful for covering your head when entering mosques or for extra modesty.
For men, avoid walking around shirtless or in very short shorts. Long trousers and T-shirts or shirts are acceptable everywhere.
3) The Sacred Role of Hospitality and Tea
Moroccan hospitality is legendary. The cornerstone of this hospitality is the offering of mint tea, often referred to as “Moroccan whiskey.” It is a symbol of friendship and welcome. Refusing an offer of tea can be seen as rude.
The tea ceremony itself is an art. It is typically poured from a height into small, ornate glasses to create a froth. You will often be offered a glass (or three—it’s customary to have at least that many!). When your host pours the tea, it is polite to hold the glass and accept it with your right hand.
4) Dining Etiquette: Eat with Your Right Hand
Moroccan meals are often a social, communal affair. If you are invited to a home for a meal, you are in for a treat.
A) The Right Hand Rule: The left hand is traditionally considered unclean. Always eat, pass food, and shake hands using your right hand only.
B) Tagine Traditions: A classic Moroccan tagine is often served communally. It is customary to eat from the section of the tagine directly in front of you. Bread is used as a utensil to scoop up the food.
C) Showing You Enjoy the Meal: Your host will be delighted if you express enjoyment of the food. A clean plate is a compliment, but it’s also polite to leave a little food to show that you are fully satisfied and your host was generous.
5) Navigating Ramadan with Sensitivity:
If your visit coincides with the holy month of Ramadan, be prepared for a different pace. During Ramadan, Muslims fast from food and drink from sunrise to sunset.
As a visitor, you are not expected to fast, but it is respectful to avoid eating, drinking, or smoking in public during daylight hours. Many restaurants catering to tourists will remain open, but they may be discreetly located or have screened-off areas. The evenings during Ramadan are incredibly vibrant, with families gathering to break their fast with a meal called Iftar.
6) Haggling in the Souks: A Friendly Sport
Haggling is an integral part of the shopping experience in the Moroccan souks (markets). It’s not seen as confrontational but as a friendly, social interaction.
A) Start with a Smile: Begin by being friendly and showing interest in the item.
B) The First Price is Not the Last: The vendor’s first price is always high. A good rule of thumb is to counter with about half of the initial asking price.
C) Be Prepared to Walk Away: This is the most powerful tool in your arsenal. If you can’t agree on a price, smile, thank the vendor, and start to walk away. Often, they will call you back with a better offer.
D) The Goal is a Fair Price: The aim is not to “win” but to arrive at a price that feels fair to both you and the seller. Remember, a few dollars difference means more to the vendor than it does to you.
7) Respecting Religious Spaces
Non-Muslims are generally not permitted to enter the prayer halls of mosques in Morocco. The one famous exception is the Hassan II Mosque in Casablanca, which offers guided tours.
However, you can still admire the incredible architecture from the outside. Always dress modestly when near a mosque and be mindful of your noise level, especially during prayer times.
8) A Few Quick “Do’s and Don’ts”
- DO ask for permission before taking photos of people, especially in rural areas.
- DON’T use your left hand for eating or handing someone money.
- DO remove your shoes when entering someone’s home or a carpet shop.
- DON’T publicly show affection between couples, as it is considered private behavior.
- DO learn a few words of Arabic or French, like “shukran” (thank you) or “la, shukran” (no, thank you). The effort is always appreciated.
By embracing these customs, you move from being a mere spectator to a respectful participant in the beautiful and complex culture of Morocco. Your awareness will be met with warmth and openness, making your journey through this magical land an unforgettable experience.
