From dresses to scarves, learn exactly how to dress as a woman traveling through Morocco’s cities, mountains, and beaches.
When traveling in Morocco as a woman, it’s important to bring modest, loose-fitting attire such as long skirts, maxi dresses, and trousers to ensure your shoulders and knees are covered. Opt for breathable fabrics to stay cool in the heat. Don’t forget a scarf or shawl, which is crucial for visiting religious sites and can also shield you from the sun. Comfortable sandals or loafers are essential for walking around.
Yes, women are allowed to wear shorts in Morocco, particularly in cities such as Marrakech. However, it is recommended to opt for knee-length or longer shorts and to cover your shoulders and midriff to show respect for the conservative local culture. This can also help you steer clear of unwanted attention. In rural regions, dressing more modestly is advisable, while traditional tourist spots like beaches or hotel pools are exceptions where more revealing attire, such as bikinis, is permitted.
No, Morocco doesn’t enforce an official dress code, but it’s advisable to dress modestly to honor the local culture, particularly in rural regions and at religious sites. Tourists have the freedom to wear various types of clothing, but it’s wise to steer clear of overly revealing outfits such as short shorts, low-cut tops, and sleeveless shirts in public to reduce unwanted attention. When entering mosques, it’s essential to dress even more conservatively and cover your head.
Yes, short sleeves are usually fine in the tourist spots of Marrakech, particularly for men. However, for women, or when exploring more traditional or religious sites, it’s advisable to dress more modestly by covering your shoulders and knees. Therefore, short sleeves might not be the best choice unless you are layering or opting for a longer shirt.
Yes, wearing jeans in Morocco is perfectly fine, particularly in cities, as long as they are worn modestly. It’s advisable to team them up with a longer top and opt for breathable materials, especially when the weather is warm. In rural regions or during religious visits, it’s wise to dress more conservatively to demonstrate respect, so it’s recommended to cover up more.
When visiting the Morocco desert, it’s best to wear durable, closed-toe, breathable footwear such as lightweight hiking shoes, trail runners, or comfy sneakers to shield your feet from the sand and the heat of the ground. While sandals or flip-flops can be handy for lounging at the campsite, it’s advisable to steer clear of them during trekking and camel rides.
When visiting Marrakech in December, be sure to bring layers of clothing since the days can be pleasant while the evenings tend to be chilly. It’s a good idea to include long-sleeved tops, sweaters, and a light jacket for daytime wear, along with a heavier jacket for the cooler nights. Don’t forget comfortable walking shoes, and a scarf can come in handy for warmth and for covering up when exploring religious sites.
No, wearing crop tops is generally not advisable in most parts of Morocco, as they are viewed as immodest and could draw unwanted attention. It’s better to opt for more conservative attire, particularly outside of tourist-oriented hotels, by choosing longer shirts that cover your shoulders and stomach, and steering clear of overly revealing clothing.
yes, you can wear leggings and ripped jeans in Morocco, but it’s important to consider your surroundings and how you style them. When wearing leggings, it’s recommended to choose a long tunic or top that covers your backside for added modesty, especially in rural regions. As for ripped jeans, it’s wise to steer clear of significant rips, particularly in more conservative areas, as they might draw unwanted attention.
Pro Tip: Dress modestly with lightweight, loose clothes. Cover shoulders and knees to stay respectful and comfortable.
When in Marrakech, it’s important to dress modestly to honor the local culture. Remember to be polite by using “please” and “thank you,” and don’t forget to practice your bargaining skills in the souks. Also, be sure to ask for permission before taking photos of individuals, stay cautious of unlicensed guides, and try to refrain from excessive public displays of affection.
Our dedicated team is here to answer your Morocco Travel questions and ensure a smooth, memorable journey through Morocco.
No, there is no official, legally-enforced dress code for tourists in Morocco. However, it’s a Muslim-majority country, and dressing modestly is a sign of respect for the local culture and traditions.
The best strategy is to balance comfort with cultural sensitivity. For women, this means opting for loose-fitting clothing that covers your shoulders, chest, and knees.
Tops: Choose loose blouses, tunics, or long-sleeved shirts made from breathable fabrics like cotton or linen.
Bottoms: Maxi dresses, long skirts, or wide-leg trousers are perfect. They’re comfortable, airy, and provide full coverage.
Layering: A lightweight cardigan, kimono, or a simple scarf is your best friend. It can be used to cover up in more conservative areas or for warmth on cool evenings.
Avoid revealing tops, short shorts, mini skirts, and tight-fitting clothes like leggings, as these can attract unwanted attention and may be considered disrespectful.
Yes, it depends on where you are. Shorts are fine in touristy areas, but long pants or skirts are better in traditional spots. Avoid sleeveless tops; cover shoulders with a light scarf or shirt.
Comfort and practicality should be your top priorities for footwear.
Walking Shoes: A pair of comfortable, closed-toe walking shoes or sturdy sneakers is essential. The medinas and souks have uneven, cobblestone, and often dusty streets, and you will be doing a lot of walking.
Sandals: Supportive sandals with ankle straps are great for warmer days and light walking, but they won’t protect your feet from dust and grime.
Specialized Footwear: If you’re planning a desert adventure or a trek in the Atlas Mountains, hiking boots with good traction are a must.
What to avoid: Leave the high heels at home. They are completely impractical for the terrain. Also, flimsy flip-flops are not a good choice for exploring beyond your accommodation or the beach.
For the desert, prioritize lightweight, loose-fitting, and breathable clothing in light colors to reflect heat and protect from the sun. Fabrics like cotton and linen are excellent choices. Essential accessories include a wide-brimmed hat, sunglasses, and sunscreen. For the beach, comfortable and practical clothing is key. Loose-fitting dresses, light pants, and tops are good options for exploring, and swimwear is essential.Â
Family Travel Blogger
Kate Carter is a mom and travel blogger who fell in love with Morocco’s culture and warmth. Through Morocco Family Vacation, she shares tips and stories to help travelers enjoy authentic, stress-free experiences. Join us along the way.
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At Morocco Family Vacation, we create custom Morocco tour packages designed around your interests and travel style. As a dedicated and independent travel agency, we specialize in private Morocco tours offering memorable desert adventures, cultural experiences, and family friendly itineraries while delivering attentive, personalized service from start to finish.
