Safety and security - Morocco travel advice (2024)

Terrorism

There is a high threat of terrorist attack globally affecting UK interests and British nationals, including from groups and individuals who view the UK and British nationals as targets. You should remain vigilant at all times.

Terrorism in Morocco

Terrorists are very likely to try to carry out attacks in Morocco.

Two tourists were murdered while hiking near Mount Toubkal in 2018. Moroccan authorities arrested four individuals in connection with the murders, including one who had links to “an extremist group”.

There is an increased threat linked to the number of Moroccans sympathetic or belonging to Daesh (formerly ISIL) and other extremist groups. Authorities regularly disrupt terrorist cells.

Places at higher risk of attack include:

• crowded areas
• government installations
• transportation networks
• businesses with Western interests
• areas where foreign nationals and tourists are known to gather

Be vigilant in these areas and follow any specific advice of the local security authorities.

Protective security measures, including security guards, may be present in areas, including hotels and sites popular with tourists.

Kidnap

While there have been no recent kidnappings of foreign nationals in Morocco, it cannot be ruled out. There is a threat of kidnapping by groups operating in North Africa, particularly from:

• Libya
• Mauritania
• groups originating in the Sahel

This includes Al Qaeda in the Islamic Maghreb (AQ-IM) and Daesh-affiliated groups, who may travel illegally across the border. There is a heightened risk of kidnap in the border and remote desert areas of North Africa. This has been done for financial gain and for political leverage.

Terrorist groups have kidnapped:

• foreigners
• government officials
• civilians

Those working in the tourism, humanitarian aid work, journalism or business sectors are viewed as legitimate targets. If you’re kidnapped, the reason for your presence is unlikely to serve as a protection or secure your safe release.

The policy of the British Government is not to make substantive concessions to hostage takers. The British Government considers that paying ransoms and releasing prisoners increases the risk of further hostage taking. The Terrorism Act (2000) also makes payments to terrorists illegal.

Political situation

There is a currently a heightened chance of demonstrations and protests occurring across the country. You should avoid these gatherings, and be aware of the potential for protests to occur spontaneously. Protests can happen at short notice and are generally heavily policed. Demonstrations are mostly peaceful but there has been isolated violence. Demonstrations and protests may lead to increased travel disruption in affected areas.

Follow any media reporting and instructions from local security authorities. Avoid political gatherings and demonstrations.

Borders

Western Sahara

See our travel advice for Western Sahara if you plan to travel to this disputed territory.

Algerian border

It is illegal to cross an international border without authorisation. The land and maritime border between Morocco and Algeria is closed. The border is patrolled and monitored closely by the authorities. Do not attempt to cross the border.

If you are in a boat or jet ski, ensure you know where the maritime border is and remain clearly within Moroccan waters. Ensure you have enough fuel to return to shore. As happened in August 2023, individuals entering Algerian waters illegally are likely to be intercepted and investigated.

Hiking

If you’re hiking in the Atlas mountains, you should:

• research the trail and its requirements, such as required level of experience
• pack essentials such as water, sunscreen, and appropriate clothing
• hire a professional guide
• take out comprehensive travel insurance to make sure it covers the type of adventure holiday you are planning

Crime

Protecting your belongings

Incidents of violent crime occasionally happen. There have been incidents involving the use of knives against tourists in street attacks, thefts and burglaries in major cities and along beaches. Avoid quiet areas, particularly after dark. Don’t carry large amounts of money or valuables around with you.

Petty crime

Petty crime is common, especially in tourist areas like the medina quarter (historical district) of towns/cities and on beaches. Crimes include:

• pickpocketing

• bag snatching

• drive-by motorcycle theft of visible jewellery and handbags

Be vigilant when asking for directions and using ATMs as crime and aggressive begging can happen. Credit card fraud and scams like substituting inferior goods for those that were bought are common. Remain alert to potential confidence tricks.

Harassment of tourists

Harassment of tourists by people posing as official tourist guides is common.

When visiting the medina quarter (historical district) of a town or city, make sure any guide you use is operating with the agreement of the local tourist authorities, and displays an official badge.

Marriage fraud

Be cautious when travelling to Morocco for a relationship, or to meet someone you met on the internet. There have been incidents of marriage fraud and attempted extortion affecting British nationals. Make sure you keep your return ticket, passport and personal belongings safe.

Laws and cultural differences

Islamic laws and customs

Morocco is a Muslim country, which follows Islamic laws and customs. You should:

• be aware of your actions to ensure they don’t offend, especially during the holy month of Ramadan or if you intend to visit religious areas (see below)
• respect local traditions, customs, laws and religions
• avoid public displays of affection, particularly outside the main tourist areas and near religious places

Sexual relations outside marriage are punishable by law. Hotels can ask couples to show evidence of marriage while checking-in and, if you don’t have proof, they can insist on separate rooms.

Ramadan

Ramadan is a holy month for Muslims. The dates vary by year and country, check when Ramadan is in Morocco before you go. During this time, do not:

• eat, drink, smoke or chew gum in public in the daytime, including in your car
• play loud music or dance
• swear in public

Get more advice when you arrive from your tour guide, hotel or business contacts.

You should also:

• check opening hours of shops and restaurants
• be aware that if hotels and restaurants are providing food or drink in fasting hours, they may separate you from Islamic guests, for example with screens
• follow local dress codes – clothing that doesn’t meet local dress codes may cause more offence at this time
• be aware that driving may be erratic, particularly when people are trying to get home at dusk

LGBT+ travellers

hom*osexuality is illegal in Morocco. Be sensitive to local laws and customs and avoid public displays of affection. Complaints can lead to prosecution. See FCDO advice for LGBT+ travellers .

Women travellers

Women, especially when travelling alone, may receive unwanted attention from men. Consider wearing loose-fitting clothing which cover the arms, legs and chest. See our FCDO advice for woman travellers.

Alcohol laws and bans

Alcohol is served in licensed hotels, bars and in tourist areas. Drinking alcohol in the street and anywhere other than a licensed restaurant or bar is illegal and can lead to arrest.

Illegal drugs and prison sentences

Possession, use or trafficking in illegal drugs is a serious offence and can result in a lengthy prison sentence and a heavy fine.

Sending passports in the post

In Morocco, it’s illegal to send passports through the post. British passports sent to or through Morocco by post or courier companies will be confiscated by the Moroccan authorities.

Bibles and religious literature

It is illegal to carry bibles in Arabic, to attempt to distribute any non-Muslim or evangelical literature, or to be involved in any such activity.

Using cameras

Avoid taking any photographs near sensitive political or military sites.

p*rnographic material

It’s illegal to possess p*rnographic material. Possession of recorded writings, printed matter, cassettes and videocassettes and any type of material contrary to morality and public order are prohibited in the Moroccan territory.

Flying drones

You’ll need permission from the authorities to fly a drone. Contact the Directorate General for Civial Aviation (in French) for more information about the rules.

Transport risks

Road travel

If you’re planning to hire a car, check with your car hire company for information on their requirements before you travel.

Many taxis bookable via mobile phone apps may be unregulated and unlicensed. Drivers may not be registered with the authorities and their vehicle may not have the appropriate levels of insurance for carrying passengers. Such taxis may at times be stopped by the police, who may ask you get out of the car.

You should:

• think carefully before using such unregulated or unlicensed taxis
• use normal ‘Petit*’ or ‘Grands Taxis’ where possible
• avoid sharing taxis with other passengers that you do not know
• insist against sharing if your driver tries to pick up other passengers during your journey

International Driving Permit

You need either a 1968 International Driving Permit (IDP) or a valid UK driving licence to drive in Morocco for up to one year. 1949 IDP is not accepted anymore. You cannot buy an IDP outside the UK, so get one before you travel.

If you are staying in Morocco for longer than one year, you need to apply for a Moroccan Driving License.

Car insurance

A green card, which can be obtained from your car insurer, is proof that you have vehicle insurance when driving abroad. You need to carry a green card to prove you have the minimum insurance cover in Morocco.

Road conditions

Drive carefully, especially when:

• driving at night, which be particularly dangerous due to poor lighting
• the weather conditions are poor on secondary routes and mountain roads
• overtaking lorries and trucks that are overloaded and when there is no hard shoulder

Road accidents

If you’re involved in a road accident, complete a form (‘constat amiable’), to be signed by both parties. Blank forms are available on arrival at Tangier port from the insurance company booths and from tobacconists in all cities.

If you’re involved in a road accident resulting in a fatality and the Moroccan authorities consider you responsible, you may be detained pending a trial hearing.

Vehicle documentation

If you enter Morocco with a vehicle, the registration number will be recorded. If you’re not in possession of the same vehicle when leaving Morocco, you’ll be refused exit and detained. You’ll need to provide evidence of motor insurance to border control when entering and exiting Morocco. Always carry your insurance, license and registration documents with you.

Extreme weather and natural disasters

Earthquakes

Morocco is in an earthquake zone. Minor earthquakes happen occasionally. The last major earthquake was in 2023, which killed almost 3000 people. Familiarise yourself with safety procedures in the event of an earthquake and take note of any instructions in hotel rooms.

There is more information on what to do during an earthquake on the US Centres for Disease Control and Prevention website.

Flooding

Heavy rain can cause flash flooding in some areas, particularly in the mountains or near rivers during winter months. Walking and driving can be dangerous in flooded areas. If flooding does happen in your area, follow local media and instructions of the local authorities.