What Currency is Used in Morocco?
Moroccan Currency Basics: What Every Traveler Needs to Know
Whether you’re planning a family trip, exploring Marrakech, or visiting Rabat — knowing how money works in Morocco is essential. Questions like “What is the currency in Morocco?”, “Can I use dollars or euros?”, or “Is MAD a closed currency?” are some of the most commonly searched by travelers before their trip. This guide answers all of them clearly and practically.
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What Is the Currency Used in Morocco?
Morocco’s official currency is the Moroccan Dirham, abbreviated as MAD. It’s also commonly written as DH or د.م. (in Arabic). The dirham is the only legal tender accepted for everyday purchases throughout Morocco from souks and taxis to restaurants and hotels.
Currency Units
1 dirham = 100 centimes (sometimes called santimat)
Banknotes: 20, 50, 100, 200 MAD
Coins: 1, 2, 5, 10 MAD and various centimes
What Does MAD Stand for in Morocco?
MAD stands for Moroccan Dirham. It’s the ISO currency code used in financial markets and exchange rate listings worldwide. Locally, the symbol “DH” is more commonly used to represent prices.
Many travelers also see “د.م”, which is the Arabic script for the same currency.
MAD = Moroccan Dirham
DHS = Dirhams (local abbreviation)
They refer to the same currency.
What Is the Moroccan Currency Called?
The Moroccan currency called the Moroccan Dirham (MAD). It is the official and only legal currency used in Morocco. Prices are usually displayed in dirhams and commonly abbreviated as DH or Dhs. The Moroccan dirham is issued by Bank Al-Maghrib, the country’s central bank. Morocco uses a closed currency system, so the dirham is generally not available outside the country and cannot be freely exported or imported in large amounts.
What Is the Moroccan Currency Symbol?
The Moroccan currency symbol is DH , in everyday use across Morocco, prices are commonly written with DH or Dhs, which stand for dirham. The official international currency code for the Moroccan dirham is MAD, used in banks, exchange offices, and financial systems. Unlike some currencies, Morocco does not use a single dedicated symbol like $, € or £, so DH is the most widely recognized and accepted way to display prices throughout the country.
What Currency Does Morocco Use?
Morocco uses the Moroccan Dirham (MAD).It is the country’s official and only legal currency, accepted nationwide for all payments. Prices are typically shown in dirhams and often written as DH or Dhs in shops, markets, and restaurants. The Moroccan dirham is issued by Bank Al-Maghrib, and Morocco operates a closed currency system, meaning the dirham is not freely traded outside the country.
Is DHS the same as MAD?
Yes, DHS and MAD refer to the same currency. MAD is the official international currency code for the Moroccan dirham, while DHS (or DH/Dhs) is the common local abbreviation used in Morocco on price tags and receipts.
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Does Morocco use DHS or MAD?
Morocco uses the Moroccan Dirham, officially coded as MAD. Locally, prices are usually written as DH or Dhs, but they all mean the same currency.
How much is $1 US in Morocco?
$1 US is worth around 9 to 10 Moroccan dirhams (MAD), depending on the current exchange rate. Rates can vary slightly between banks, exchange offices, and ATMs.
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How much is $5 US in Morocco?
$5 US is approximately 45 to 50 Moroccan dirhams (MAD), based on typical exchange rates. This amount can cover small purchases like snacks, coffee, or short taxi rides.
How much is $20 US in Morocco?
$20 US equals roughly 180 to 200 Moroccan dirhams (MAD). This is enough for casual meals, local transport, or entry fees at some attractions.
Is $50 a lot in Morocco?
Yes, $50 is considered a good amount of money in Morocco. It can cover a full day of meals, transportation, and small shopping for budget or mid-range travelers.
How much is $100 US in Morocco today?
$100 US is usually worth about 900 to 1,000 Moroccan dirhams (MAD), depending on the current exchange rate. Always check the latest rate for accuracy.
Is the dollar strong in Morocco?
Yes, the US dollar is relatively strong in Morocco. Travelers using dollars often benefit from favorable exchange rates, making Morocco an affordable destination for US visitors.
Is the Moroccan dirham a closed currency?
Yes, the Moroccan dirham (MAD) is a closed currency, meaning it is not freely traded on international currency markets. You generally cannot buy or sell Moroccan dirhams outside Morocco. This system allows Morocco to regulate foreign exchange, protect its economy, and maintain currency stability for residents and visitors.
What does it mean to have a closed currency?
A closed currency is a national currency that cannot be freely exchanged outside its home country. Governments adopt closed currency systems to control capital movement, prevent currency speculation, protect foreign reserves, and reduce economic volatility. Travelers must exchange money inside the country rather than before arrival.
Why is MAD a closed currency?
MAD is a closed currency to support Morocco’s financial stability and economic policy. By limiting international trading of the dirham, Morocco can better control inflation, manage foreign exchange reserves, and protect the local economy from sudden currency fluctuations caused by global markets.
Why can’t I buy Moroccan dirham before traveling?
You usually cannot buy Moroccan dirhams before traveling because banks and exchange offices outside Morocco do not stock MAD. Since it is a closed currency, travelers are expected to bring euros, US dollars, or British pounds and exchange them upon arrival at airports, banks, or licensed exchange bureaus.
Is it better to take cash or card to Morocco?
It is best to use a mix of cash and cards when traveling in Morocco. Cash is essential for souks, taxis, street food, and rural areas, while credit and debit cards are widely accepted in hotels, riads, tour companies, and major restaurants in cities like Marrakech and Casablanca.
Quick Takeaways
Morocco uses the Moroccan Dirham (MAD)
DHS and MAD are the same currency
The Dirham is a closed currency
USD converts easily inside Morocco
Cash is essential for daily expenses
The dollar has strong value in Morocco
Conclusion: Understanding Morocco’s Currency Makes Travel Easier
Knowing Morocco use MAD currency removes one of the biggest uncertainties travelers face before arrival. The Moroccan Dirham (MAD) is the country’s official and only currency, and while its closed-currency status may seem unfamiliar at first, it is simple to manage once you understand the basics.
Morocco does not use the dollar or the euro for everyday transactions, but exchanging foreign currency is easy and widely accessible. With ATMs, exchange offices, and banks available in all major cities, travelers can quickly obtain Dirhams and confidently handle daily expenses. Using a combination of cash and cards offers the best balance of convenience and security.
For families and first-time visitors, understanding the difference between MAD and DHS, knowing current exchange values, and being aware of currency restrictions helps prevent unnecessary stress. Small steps such as exchanging money after arrival, spending remaining Dirhams before departure, and avoiding informal money changers go a long way toward ensuring a smooth experience.
Ultimately, Morocco is a welcoming and affordable destination where currency management is straightforward with the right preparation. When you know how the Moroccan Dirham works, you can focus less on logistics and more on enjoying the country’s culture, cuisine, and unforgettable travel experiences.
With good planning, handling money in Morocco becomes not a challenge but a simple part of a well-organized and enjoyable journey.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Our dedicated team is here to answer your Morocco Travel questions and ensure a smooth, memorable journey through Morocco.
Can you take MAD out of Morocco?
No, taking Moroccan dirhams out of Morocco is officially restricted. Travelers are expected to exchange leftover dirhams back into foreign currency before departure. Small amounts may pass unnoticed, but exporting large sums of MAD is not permitted under Moroccan currency regulations.
How much MAD can you take into Morocco?
Travelers are not allowed to bring significant amounts of Moroccan dirhams into Morocco. Visitors should instead carry foreign currency and exchange it locally. Declaring large amounts of foreign cash on arrival may be required, depending on the value.
Is Morocco still a US ally?
Yes, Morocco is a long-standing and strategic ally of the United States. The partnership dates back to 1777, when Morocco became the first country to recognize the US. Today, both nations maintain strong diplomatic, military, and economic cooperation, making Morocco a key US partner in North Africa.
Kate Carter
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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