The Moroccan culture is centuries old and it is affected by a lot of factors from politics to religion. One thing that you will notice is that the good manners in North African countries are different from the good manners in most Western countries. Generally, Morocco is a country where traditional values are celebrated, modesty is prized and religion is sacred. However, there are a few things to keep in mind when booking a trip to Morocco.
No Entry in Mosques
You will see a lot of mosques in Morocco as it is a Muslim country but you may not be allowed to enter most of the buildings because people with Islamic faith are allowed to do so. Non-Muslims are allowed to visit only a few mosques like the Hassan II mosque. If you are not allowed to enter a mosque please don’t take pictures from outside. Similarly, graveyards are also considered sacred so try not to go there as well.
Respect Ramadan
You will find different rules in the holy month of Ramadan in Morocco. Muslims offer prayers, do fasting, and do a lot of community work. Tourists are not expected to fast during the day time but it is important to be respectful. Try not to eat outside the hotel or public places just as a courtesy for people who are fasting.
Dress Appropriately
Morocco is considered conservative as compared to Western standards. To avoid unnecessary attention wear dress conservatively. Men should wear trousers with a short-sleeved shirt at least. Similarly, women should not wear revealing clothes, and long skirts along with jeans or trousers are acceptable.
Don’t be Too Friendly
Well, it’s good to be respectful and polite but don’t be over-friendly to anyone in Morocco. It is considered okay to make small talk with strangers in European countries but in Morocco, women stay more reserved. If you become overfriendly with them it can be considered a romantic interaction that will draw unwanted attention. Try to avoid talking to strangers, especially women.
Remember Handshake Etiquette
Hand handshake is a simple gesture that works best when greeting people. In Morocco, a handshake is followed by placing your hand on the heart. If you are a man keep in mind that women don’t feel comfortable in handshaking. It’s better to avoid any awkward situation of handshake with a Moroccan woman.
Eating Etiquettes in Morocco
Dining etiquette is also different in these countries as compared to the Western world. In some places, you will be served food in a bowl and the proper way is to eat only from your section of the bowl. It’s best to respect the boundaries and not to eat from other people’s section.
Don’t Use Left Hand For Eating
Whenever you are in a Muslim country there is one thing to keep in mind always use your right hand to eat even if is left-handed. In the Middle East people use their left hand in the restroom. When you are eating if you use this hand to eat from the bowl people will get horrified.
Don’t Give Direct Compliments
In Islamic culture, modesty has more value. While there is no harm in complimenting others in Morocco you may not find too much complimenting. If you want to praise someone be subtle. You may also don’t get any compliments so keep in mind it’s their culture.
Don’t Make Photographs Of Everythign
When taking photographs be a little smart and don’t take photos of anything you see, eat, or do. There are some strict rules in Morocco. For example, when you are in a mosque don’t take pictures inside. Similarly don’t take pictures of police personnel or checkpoints. In case you like to take photos of locals ask permission first.
Say Bismillah When Eating
In Islamic culture they say Bismillah before starting or doing anything, it means “In the name of God”. If you want to impress any local start your food by saying “Bismillah”. You can win some hearts with this.