Hospitality & Behavioral Tips

Moroccan hospitality is legendary — and sincere. If someone offers you tea or food, it is genuine and a sign of respect. Refusal is accepted, but acceptance is appreciated. The three glasses of mint tea are a ritual: the first glass is "gentle as life," the second "strong as love," the third "bitter as death".

Behavioral Tips

• Greeting: "Salam alaikum" (Peace be upon you) — the universal greeting. The response: "Wa alaikum as-salam". A handshake is common among men; with women, wait to see if they extend their hand.
• Clothing: Marrakech is more tolerant than rural Morocco, but covered shoulders and knees are respectful — especially in the Medina and at mosques. Men: long pants and a T-shirt. Women: no headscarf needed, but covered shoulders and knees.
• Ramadan: During Ramadan (about 30 days, shifts throughout the year), Muslims fast from sunrise to sunset. Tourists do not have to fast, but avoiding eating, drinking, and smoking in public is a sign of respect. Many restaurants in the Medina are closed during the day; hotels and tourist restaurants remain open.
• Photography: Always ask for permission before photographing people — especially women. Some expect a small tip (5–10 MAD). Military facilities and police officers: never photograph.
• Left Hand: In Islamic culture, the left hand is considered unclean. Eat, give, and take with the right hand.