What to Wear in Morocco: A Practical Dress Code Guide

Visitors walking in a Marrakech street in light, modest clothing

Morocco is relaxed about tourist clothing in many places, but it is a Muslim country with conservative customs, especially outside the big tourist areas. Dressing modestly is respectful and helps you feel more comfortable in the medinas and villages.

This guide explains what to wear in the cities, the desert, the mountains and on the coast, for both women and men.

At a Glance

The Basic Dress Code

There is no tourist dress law, but covering shoulders and knees is the sensible standard in towns and villages. Choose loose, light fabrics such as cotton and linen, which keep you cool and respect local customs. In busy medinas, modest dress also reduces unwanted attention.

What Women Can Wear

Many visitors wear light trousers, long skirts or maxi dresses with tops that cover the shoulders. A light scarf is useful for sun, dust and visiting religious sites, but you do not have to cover your hair as a tourist. In the countryside and smaller towns, err on the conservative side.

What Men Can Wear

Lightweight trousers or knee-length shorts with a T-shirt or shirt are fine in most places. Avoid walking around towns shirtless or in swimwear away from pools and beaches.

Mosques and Religious Sites

Most mosques are not open to non-Muslim visitors, but where visits are allowed, such as the guided tours at the Hassan II Mosque, dress modestly and remove your shoes. See our Hassan II Mosque guide.

The Sahara and the Mountains

Days in the desert can be hot and nights cold: wear light long layers by day with a hat and sunglasses, and bring a warm jacket or fleece for the evening. For the Atlas, bring hiking shoes and layers.

The Coast, Pools and Hammams

Swimwear is fine at beaches, hotel pools and riad pools, but cover up when you leave. In a hammam, follow the guidance of the staff; many people wear swimwear or disposable underwear. See our hammam guide.

Seasonal Tips and Shoes

In summer, wear light, breathable fabrics and a sun hat. In winter and the north, bring a jacket and a light rain layer. Comfortable closed shoes or sturdy sandals work best on uneven medina streets. See our best time to visit Morocco.

Further Reading

For the full checklist, see our Morocco packing list, our etiquette guide and our safety guide.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do women need to cover their hair in Morocco?

No, tourists do not need to cover their hair, except when visiting a religious site where it is required.

Can I wear shorts in Morocco?

Knee-length shorts are fine for men in most places; women usually prefer longer shorts or skirts, especially in medinas.

Can I wear a swimsuit?

Yes at beaches and hotel or riad pools, but cover up elsewhere.

What should I wear in the Sahara?

Light long layers by day, plus a hat and sunglasses, and a warm layer for the cold nights.

What shoes should I bring?

Comfortable closed shoes or sturdy sandals for uneven medina streets, and hiking shoes if you plan to trek.

Is Morocco strict about dress?

It is a conservative country but tolerant of visitors; modest clothing is respectful and recommended.

Planning Your Morocco Trip?

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