Your essential Morocco dress code guide what to wear for comfort, style, and cultural respect on every part of your trip.
So, you’re off to Morocco! How exciting! You’re probably already dreaming of those stunning landscapes, the bustling souks, and all the amazing food. But then it hits you: “What on earth do I pack?!” I totally get it. Trying to figure out the Morocco dress code can feel a bit like a puzzle. You want to be comfy and cool, but also respectful of the local culture.
Trust me, you’ve come to the right place. This guide is basically your new best friend for packing. We’re going to break down how to choose clothes that keep you feeling great, whether you’re sweating it out in the desert or chilling in a cool medina, all while helping you fit in with the local vibe. Let’s get you ready for an unforgettable Moroccan adventure!
First things first, let’s talk about the two biggies that dictate what you should wear: the culture and the weather.
Morocco is a Muslim country, and that means modesty is a big deal. Now, don’t panic there’s no official dress code for tourists. You won’t get in trouble for wearing a tank top. But, dressing a bit more conservatively shows respect for the local way of life. Honestly, when you dress a little more modestly, you’ll find people are even friendlier, and you’ll get a lot less unwanted attention. It’s a win-win!
Morocco’s climate is wild. You can go from scorching heat to shivering cold in just a few hours.
Coastal cities like Casablanca and Essaouira are pretty mellow, but the evenings can get surprisingly breezy.
Inland cities like Marrakech? Oh boy. Summers are absolutely blazing hot (think over 40°C!), while winters can be chilly, especially at night.
The Sahara Desert is the real drama queen. It’s scorching during the day but freezes at night. You’ll literally need a jacket even in the middle of summer.
The Atlas Mountains are always cooler and get heavy snowfall in winter, so if you’re trekking, be prepared.
Seriously, if you only remember one thing from this whole guide, let it be this: think loose, light, and layered.
Loose-fitting clothes are your best friends. They let your skin breathe in the heat and are super comfy. Plus, they fit that whole modesty thing perfectly. Look for natural fabrics like cotton, linen, and rayon. Bonus points for merino wool it’s a magical fabric that wicks away sweat and doesn’t get smelly.
Light colors are a game-changer. They reflect the sun, keeping you way cooler than dark clothes, which basically act like a heat magnet.
Layers are a must. Because the temperatures can change so fast, you’ll be peeling off clothes and putting them back on all day. A light jacket or a big scarf is essential, no matter the season.
Okay, ladies, let’s talk dress code for women in Morocco. Your main goal is to be comfortable while minimizing unwanted attention. Think chic and breezy, not tight and revealing.
What to Pack:
Long, flowy dresses and skirts are an absolute dream. They’re stylish, comfy, and offer great sun protection.
Loose-fitting tops with sleeves. Think tunics, button-downs, or airy blouses.
Wide-leg linen pants or comfy trousers. Harem pants are a great option!
A scarf (or two!) is a must-have. It’s your superhero accessory. Use it to cover your shoulders, protect your head from the sun, or for a bit of warmth at night.
What to Leave at Home:
Anything with spaghetti straps, crop tops, or low-cut necklines. They just attract too much attention.
Super short shorts or mini skirts. It’s just not the vibe, and you’ll feel a lot more comfortable with longer bottoms.
Tight leggings or bodycon dresses. You’ll feel a lot better in something looser.
Your bikini is for the hotel pool only! Always have a cover-up ready for when you leave.
Guys, you’ve got it a bit easier, but it’s still good to be mindful.
What to Pack:
Long pants or jeans are a go-to. Linen pants are a lifesaver in the heat.
Short-sleeve shirts, polos, or button-downs made of cotton or linen.
Knee-length shorts are fine in big cities and coastal towns, but if you’re heading to a traditional village or a mosque, wear long pants.
What to Avoid:
Tank tops. It’s just not a common look, especially in conservative areas.
Going shirtless in public. Nope, don’t do it.
For the Little Ones: All About Comfort and Sun Safety
Kids need clothes that are all about comfort and protection. Pack lightweight, breathable clothes that cover their skin to prevent sunburn. Don’t forget extra layers for chilly nights and, of course, a wide-brimmed hat and sunglasses!
City Life (Marrakech, Fes)
In cities, you’ll see all kinds of tourists, but sticking to the loose and modest rule is your best bet, especially in the busy medinas. In Fes, which is more traditional, you’ll want to cover up even more.
Desert Adventures
This is where the layers really come in handy!
Daytime: Think Indiana Jones chic. Loose, long-sleeved shirts and pants are a must to protect you from the sun and sand.
Headwear: A wide-brimmed hat or a scarf is essential.
Shoes: Skip the sandals! You’ll need sturdy, closed-toe shoes to protect your feet from the hot sand and rocky terrain.
Nighttime: Don’t be fooled by the daytime heat. The desert gets freezing at night. Pack a warm jacket, scarf, and maybe even a pair of gloves.
Beach Life (Essaouira, Agadir)
This is where you can relax a bit! Swimwear is totally fine at hotel pools and on the beach. Just be sure to put on a sarong or a cover-up before you wander into town. Shorts are also generally acceptable here.
This is one of the few places where there are strict rules. Both men and women must cover their shoulders, chests, and legs. Ladies, you will also need to cover your head with a scarf. Oh, and you have to take off your shoes at the entrance, so wear socks or be prepared to go barefoot!
Tops: 2-3 long-sleeved shirts, 3-4 short-sleeved shirts, and a light cardigan or kimono.
Bottoms: 2-3 maxi dresses/skirts and a couple of pairs of loose-fitting pants.
Outerwear: A light jacket or hoodie.
Shoes: Your comfiest walking shoes (trust me on this) and a pair of sturdy sandals. Hiking boots if you’re hitting the mountains.
Essentials: A wide-brimmed hat, 1-2 scarves, sunglasses, a crossbody bag for safety, and a reusable water bottle.
Top tip: Download your route on Google Maps before you leave, and you’ll be able to use the app without Wifi as you walk around!
So there you have it! Packing for Morocco is all about being smart and respectful. You can totally look stylish and feel great while doing it. The key is to pack with a little thought, and you’ll be ready for anything this amazing country throws at you. Have an incredible trip!
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.
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.
