LANGUAGE : While classical Arabic is Morocco’s official language, its local dialect, Darija, is the most commonly spoken. In business, government circles, schools and universities, French is also widely spoken. In fact, most people mix Arabic and French when speaking. Tamazight, the Berber language is also an official language and can also be heard in the Rif region and in major cities. In the north, Spanish is widely understood, in particular around Tetouan. English is becoming more common, and is spoken by senior businessmen and government officials, and can be spoken in major hotels and tourist accommodations across the country.
ETIQUETTE: During greetings it is generally appreciated to inquire about the family. In business settings, a handshake is usually the first introduction. Once a relationship has been established, it becomes more common to kiss on both cheeks starting with the left and shaking hands, men with men and women with women. In a greeting between a man and a woman, the woman must extend her hand first. If she does not, a man should bow his head in greeting. Items should never be offered with the left hand.
BUSINESS HOURS: Morocco is located in the UTC zone and business hours are similar to those in Western countries, going from 9am to 6pm, although public sector institutions typically close at 5pm. These hours are likely to change during Ramadan.
DRESS: Being a Muslim country, it is generally advisable for visitors to dress modestly. However, in major urban centres and tourist areas, people dress more liberally. When entering a mosque, shoes should be removed and women should cover their heads. As a rule, non-Muslims are not allowed to enter mosques.
VISA: Most visitors to Morocco do not need a visa and are allowed to remain in the country for 90 days on entry. Some exceptions do exist, however, so it is advisable to check the most updated visa requirements prior to travel. A three-month, single-entry tourist visa costs about $26. To enter the country, the passport must be valid for at least six months beyond the date of entry.
CURRENCY: The dirham (Dh) is the local currency. In February 2013, Dh100 was approximately €9. ATMs can be used to withdraw cash using internationally accepted cards. As a rule, people use coins and bills with denominations up to Dh200. However, for small transactions, change is sometimes not available for bills of Dh200. Due to exchange controls, foreign credit cards cannot always be used.
TIPPING: Hotels add a 10% service charge on top of the 10% tax. Some restaurants add a service charge of 5-15%. If a service charge is not applied, it is advisable to add 10-15% to the bill. For taxis and other services, it is common to round up to the nearest Dh5.
ELECTRICITY: The electrical outlets are standard 220V/50 Hz AC type C or F, the same as in most European countries. Bringing an adaptor is advisable as they are not readily available outside the major cities.
TRANSPORT: In general, Morocco is equipped with a very good public transport system made up of modern trains and intercity coaches connecting the main urban centres and beyond. It also has a good motorway network, all of which require paying tolls. Domestic flights are also available, and recommended for destinations south of Agadir. Within cities, trams are available (Rabat and Casablanca) as well as buses and taxis.
Drivers drive on the right side of the road and the initial fee for taxis is typically Dh2. The standard fee for taking a taxi from Mohammed V airport to downtown Casablanca is Dh250, or Dh300 during night hours.
HEALTH: High-quality health care is available in private facilities and pharmacies are widespread, often with extended opening hours. No specific vaccinations are required, unless one travels from, or transited through, countries that are cholera-infected. Typhoid and Hepatitis A vaccinations are recommended.
COMMUNICATION: Mobile phone use is widespread and it is advisable to buy a local SIM card upon arrival, which typically costs approximately Dh20 (€2). Wireless internet is widely available, although the connection may not always be optimal, even in urban areas.
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