All You Need to Know about Alcohol in Morocco

Welcome to our comprehensive guide, “All You Need to Know about Alcohol in Morocco.” As a country with a rich cultural tapestry and diverse traditions, Morocco’s relationship with alcohol is nuanced and intriguing. In this blog post, we’ll delve into the cultural attitudes towards alcohol, its availability, regulations, and practical tips for travelers navigating this aspect of Moroccan life. Whether you’re a curious traveler planning a visit or simply interested in learning more about this fascinating topic, join us as we uncover the complexities of alcohol in Morocco.

Drinking Alcohol in Morocco

Morocco is known for its cultural diversity and its liberal interpretation of Islam. 

While Islam prohibits the consumption of alcohol, Morocco stands out as one of the most tolerant Muslim nations, where visitors can enjoy access to alcoholic beverages.

However, alcohol consumption is still frowned upon culturally, so tread carefully. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll delve into everything you need to know about alcohol in Morocco. 

So, whether you’re planning a trip or simply curious about Moroccan customs, here is everything you need to know about alcohol in this fascinating North African kingdom.

Alcohol in Morocco

While alcohol is forbidden for Muslims, it’s not uncommon to find locals who drink. The country is even home to some of the region’s best wineries, and beer is also locally produced. 

However, alcohol consumption in public is strictly prohibited. Even if you are a tourist, drinking in public might get you in trouble with the police, so it’s best to avoid it. 

When visiting restaurants, you’ll find that they serve water, soft beverages, and, of course, the staple Moroccan tea, which is rich in mint. 

The flip side to the alcohol restriction in public is that you don’t have to worry about after-midnight brawls, as seen in some European countries. Even the busiest parts of Marrakech remain safe, as people are not allowed to wander around in public while drunk.

Can Tourists Drink Alcohol in Morocco?

Yes, tourists can enjoy alcohol while visiting Morocco. However, similar to locals, it’s advisable to avoid drinking in public areas.

In Morocco, establishments such as bars, restaurants, and hotels that serve alcohol must possess a special license. Notably, you’ll find that these venues often lack windows, a measure to comply with the prohibition of public alcohol consumption.

While there are some exceptions, such as restaurants and bars with outdoor seating areas, only tourists are permitted to drink alcohol in these designated spaces.

Do Hotels in Morocco Serve Alcohol?

Hotels catering to foreigners typically offer alcohol to guests. However, if you’re staying at a Riyad, it’s advisable to check with your host regarding alcohol availability.

Larger and upscale resorts and hotels in major cities like Casablanca, Marrakech, Tangier, and Rabat commonly serve alcohol. In smaller cities, finding hotels with alcohol service might be more challenging, so it’s wise to plan accordingly. 

Taxi drivers can often provide helpful guidance if you’re seeking such accommodations.

A word of caution: if your hotel room faces the street, it’s best to refrain from consuming alcohol on the balcony out of respect for local customs.

How to find alcohol in Morocco?

In Morocco, alcohol sales are not as common as in Western countries; don’t expect to find liquor stores on every street corner or in supermarkets.

However, alcohol is available at specialized stores that hold a license. These liquor outlets are more prevalent in larger cities. 

Carrefour is the only major supermarket in Morocco that sells alcohol. Yet, alcohol is typically sold in a separate room within the store, often with more security measures such as separate cashiers and discreet packaging to conceal the contents.

Make sure to carry your passport with you while buying alcohol, sometimes they might ask you to show it.

If you plan to enjoy your alcohol in the lounge areas of hotels or Riads, check their policies beforehand. Some hotels and riads serve alcohol, and they don’t allow guests to bring drinks from outside.

Alcohol & Ramadan

You can still drink alcohol while on your travel to Morocco in Ramadan, but your options are more limited. During Ramadan, Muslims fast from sunset to sunrise in this holy month, so restaurants and coffee shops typically close during the daytime. 

Most alcohol stores close approximately 40 days before Ramadan. Given that Ramadan follows the lunar calendar and its timing varies each year, be sure to plan your trip accordingly if you wish to have access to alcohol during your visit.

Keep in mind that alcohol consumption is a big deal for Muslims, so be extra mindful when drinking alcohol during Ramadan.

Frequently Asked Questions