Morocco runs largely on cash, with a few important exceptions. Knowing how the dirham works, where cards are accepted, and how much to tip will save you confusion and a few awkward moments. Here's the practical rundown.
The currency: the Moroccan dirham (MAD)
Morocco's currency is the Moroccan dirham (MAD or DH), divided into 100 centimes. As a rough guide, €1 is around 10–11 MAD and US$1 is around 10 MAD (rates fluctuate, so check before you travel).
The dirham is a "closed" currency: you generally can't buy much of it outside Morocco and you shouldn't take large amounts out. The simplest approach is to withdraw dirhams from an ATM on arrival — there are machines in the airport arrivals halls and across every city.
Cash vs cards
- Cards (Visa/Mastercard) are accepted at hotels, larger restaurants, supermarkets, petrol stations and many shops in the cities. Online bookings (like a private transfer) are paid by card in advance.
- Cash is essential for the souks, small cafés, taxis, tips, rural areas and small towns. Always carry some dirhams.
- ATMs are widespread in cities; they can be scarce in remote areas and the desert, so withdraw before heading south.
- Keep a stock of small notes and coins for taxis, tips and small purchases — breaking a 200 MAD note in a small café isn't always easy.
Tipping in Morocco (pourboire)
Tipping is customary and appreciated, but not aggressive. Rough guidelines:
| Service | Customary tip |
|---|---|
| Restaurants | 5–10% (round up at cafés) |
| Café / quick bite | A few dirhams of change |
| Hotel porter | 10–20 MAD per bag |
| Private driver (multi-day) | €10–20 (about 100–200 MAD) per day |
| Local guide | 100–150 MAD for a half/full day |
| Hammam attendant | 20–50 MAD |
| Petrol attendant / parking | 2–5 MAD |
Tips are a personal thank-you for good service, not an obligation. One practical rule: tip in dirhams, not foreign coins — Moroccan workers can't exchange foreign coins, so they have no value here.
Bargaining in the souks
Haggling is expected in the souks for crafts, rugs and souvenirs (but not in fixed-price shops, supermarkets or for food). A friendly rule of thumb: the first price is high, so counter at roughly half, then settle somewhere in between. Stay relaxed and good-humoured — it's a conversation, not a confrontation, and walking away politely often improves the price.
A few money tips for a smooth trip
- Tell your bank you're travelling so your card isn't blocked.
- Withdraw a sensible amount at the airport so you're not hunting for an ATM late at night.
- Carry small notes for taxis and tips.
- Keep some cash for the desert and rural stops, where cards rarely work.
- Your private transfer is paid online in advance, so you arrive without needing cash for the ride — just keep a little for an optional tip.
FAQ — Money and tipping in Morocco
Should I get dirhams before I arrive?
Not much — the dirham is a closed currency and rates abroad are poor. Withdraw from an ATM in the airport arrivals hall instead, where rates are fair.
Can I use my credit card in Morocco?
Yes, in hotels, larger restaurants, supermarkets and many city shops, and for online bookings. But carry cash for souks, taxis, small cafés and rural areas, where cards aren't accepted.
How much should I tip a private driver?
For a multi-day private driver, around €10–20 (100–200 MAD) per day is a fair guide, more if they went out of their way. For a single airport transfer, a small tip is appreciated but not expected.
Is bargaining rude?
No — in the souks it's expected and part of the culture. Stay friendly, counter at about half the first price, and settle in the middle. Don't bargain in fixed-price shops or for food.
Can I tip in euros or dollars?
Notes can be used, but coins can't be exchanged in Morocco, so they're worthless to the recipient. Tip in dirhams whenever you can.
Booking a transfer or private driver? Pay securely online in advance at planmorocco.com — message Sarah on WhatsApp with any questions.