How to pay is one of the most common questions before a trip. Here is everything you need to know about money in Morocco.
The Moroccan dirham
The currency is the dirham (MAD), written DH. There are notes of 20, 50, 100 and 200 dirhams and coins of 1, 2, 5 and 10 dirhams. As a guide, one euro is worth around 10.5–11 dirhams and one US dollar around 9–10; check the rate before you travel.
A closed currency
You cannot buy dirhams outside Morocco, and taking them out is limited. Bring euros, dollars or pounds and exchange on arrival. Keep your receipts if you want to change dirhams back at the end.
Where to exchange
- Airport: fine for the first few hours.
- Banks and exchange offices in town: usually fair rates without hidden fees.
- Avoid changing money with strangers in the street.
ATMs and cards
ATMs are everywhere in Marrakech, Fes, Casablanca and Tangier, but scarce in villages and in the desert: withdraw cash before heading south. Cards work in hotels, good restaurants and supermarkets; souks, cafés and taxis are cash only.
Tipping
Tipping is part of the culture and always appreciated: round up in cafés, leave around 10% in restaurants and tip guides and drivers at the end of a tour according to your satisfaction.
For a full budget, see how much a trip to Morocco costs.
Frequently asked questions
Can I pay in euros or dollars in Morocco?
Generally no — prices are in dirhams. Exchange on arrival or withdraw from ATMs.
