What to Wear in Morocco: Simple, Honest Advice for Women and Men

Is there a dress code for tourists?

No. Morocco is a moderate, open and welcoming country, and the way people dress here is very diverse. In the same street you will see jeans, summer dresses, suits, colourful caftans, djellabas and headscarves. Visitors are not expected to follow any rule about colours or fabrics. The only guideline I give my guests is common sense and comfort.

Are bright colours welcome?

Yes, completely. Guests sometimes read online that neon colours or bold prints are disrespectful here. That is not true, and you do not need to change your wardrobe. Colour is part of daily life in Morocco, in the markets, the tiles and the caftans, and many Moroccan women love bright and bold colours. Pack the colours you enjoy wearing.

Are light or sheer fabrics fine?

Yes. Light and breathable fabrics are the most sensible choice in the heat. Linen, cotton and flowing fabrics are very popular here, and a sheer blouse or dress worn over a proper top or slip is perfectly acceptable.

What women can wear

• In the medinas and villages, tops that cover the shoulders and skirts, dresses or trousers below the knee are the most comfortable and the most appreciated.
• In modern city districts, hotels, riads and beach towns, dress as you would in southern Europe.
• A light scarf or shawl is the most useful thing you can pack. It covers your shoulders in a mosque or village, protects you from the sun and keeps you warm in the evening.
• You do not need to cover your hair, except to enter a mosque that is open to visitors.

What men can wear

Trousers or knee length shorts and a T shirt or shirt are fine everywhere. In the medinas, long trousers are a little more respectful, and sleeveless tops are best kept for the pool.

Special places

Mosques

Most mosques in Morocco are closed to non Muslims. The Hassan II Mosque in Casablanca is open on guided visits. Cover your shoulders and knees, and women bring a scarf for the hair. You remove your shoes at the entrance.

The Sahara

Loose long sleeves and trousers protect you from the sun and the sand in the day. Bring a warm layer for the evening, because desert nights are cold for much of the year. A scarf can be tied as a cheche turban, and I am happy to show you how. See what to pack for the Sahara.

The hammam

Bring a swimsuit or keep your underwear on. Women and men use separate rooms or separate hours. Read alcohol, dress and hammam etiquette.

My packing list

• Comfortable, closed walking shoes with a good grip for the cobbled lanes.
• Light cotton or linen clothes, in any colours you like.
• One light scarf or shawl.
• A warm sweater or fleece, even in summer, for the mountains and the desert night.
• A hat, sunglasses and sunscreen.
• A swimsuit for the riad pool and the hammam.

Packing for a specific season? See the best time to visit Morocco and Morocco in August.