Money in Morocco: Currency, Exchange & Card Usage
Money in Morocco is a pretty straightforward, simple affair. It’s easy to obtain Moroccan currency, and as long as you stick to legal money changers or ATMs, you shouldn’t have any problems during your travels.
What is the currency in Morocco?
Morocco’s official currency is the Moroccan dirham (MAD). The dirham is a closed currency, so you can’t buy, sell, or trade it outside of Morocco. You’ll need to exchange your money once you arrive.
You can check live rates for your home currency against the dirham using an online converter like Wise.
For the sake of convenience, think of $1 USD as roughly 10 MAD when making purchases during your travels.
PRO TIP: Australian and Canadian dollars usually aren’t accepted for exchange in Morocco. It’s best to bring US dollars, euros, or British pounds.
Moroccan dirhams (MAD)
How can I exchange money in Morocco?
Exchanging money in Morocco can be done in two main ways:
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Currency exchange offices, also known as bureaux de change.
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ATMs
Let’s look at both in more detail.
Exchanging Money in Morocco: Exchange Offices
It’s easy to exchange money when you arrive in Morocco. The best place to do this is at a bureau de change. You’ll find these exchange offices in most tourist areas and at the Tangier airport if you prefer to get some cash upon arrival.
Airport exchange rates are often less favorable, so consider changing only a small amount at the airport, then look for better rates elsewhere.
If you choose to exchange money in this way, it’s best to bring clean, crisp notes with limited to no creases, wrinkles, markings, or tears.
PRO TIP: Ask for smaller bills when exchanging cash at as many local vendors struggle to provide change. This is also handy when you need to leave a tip. Check out our Tipping in Morocco blog to learn more about this!
An example of a currency exchange office in Morocco
Exchanging Money in Morocco: ATMs
We recommend withdrawing dirhams from ATMs during your travels in Morocco. It’s fast, easy, and convenient. You can use the Tangier airport ATM, but again, withdraw only a small amount there because airport ATMs often charge higher fees and offer worse rates.
ATMs are common in big cities and airports but much rarer in rural areas. When traveling outside of the city, be prepared by having enough cash as ATMs aren’t always as readily available.
If you’ve signed up for a Globe Drifters Morocco trip, your Moroccan guide will help you find reputable exchange offices and ATMs and plan stops before traveling into places without ATMs.
PRO TIP: Withdraw odd amounts from ATMs (like 490 dirhams instead of 500) to get smaller bills. They’re handy for tipping and small purchases. Read more about Tipping in Morocco in our blog.
Can I use my debit/credit card in Morocco?
Credit and debit cards aren’t widely accepted outside cities or tourist areas. In upscale hotels, restaurants, or shops, you may be able to pay with a Visa or MasterCard. Otherwise, Morocco is a largely cash-based society, so it’s advisable to carry cash for most purchases.
If you do decide to use your debit or credit card in Morocco, make sure your bank knows that you’re planning a trip. If not, they may block your cards.
Many of the rosewater, argan oil, Berber rug, pottery, and leather cooperatives will accept debit/credit cards. Many can also provide shipment to your home address for a reasonable fee.
Most Berber rug cooperatives will accept card payment
How much money will I need for my Morocco trip?
We recommend bringing around $500 – $700 USD for your trip to Morocco. This is based on past Globe Drifters’ Morocco travelers’ feedback.
We strongly advise having access to more money than you expect to spend in case of an emergency!
Morocco has lots of great souvenirs so plan your budget accordingly!
In short, money in Morocco isn’t complicated. Knowing what to expect makes your trip smoother. And if you’re joining our Globe Drifters Morocco tour, your guide will be there to help point you in the right direction. Happy travels!