Short answer: wear loose, light clothes that cover your shoulders and knees, bring a scarf and comfortable walking shoes, and add warm layers for evenings and desert nights. Inside riads, at hotel pools and on the beach, normal holiday clothes are fine.
Morocco has no legal dress code for visitors, but it is a conservative country, especially outside the big cities. Dressing modestly brings you less attention and more smiles.
What to wear in Morocco as a woman
- Long, loose dresses or skirts, wide trousers, linen trousers.
- Tops with short or long sleeves that cover the shoulders; avoid low necklines.
- A light scarf or pashmina: useful for sun, sand, cool evenings and religious sites.
- Leggings are fine under a long top or tunic.
- You do not need to cover your hair.
What to wear in Morocco as a man
- Trousers or knee-length shorts; long trousers are better in medinas and villages.
- T-shirts and shirts; avoid sleeveless tops away from the beach.
- A hat or cap for the sun.
What to wear, place by place
| Place | What works |
|---|---|
| Medinas (Fes, Marrakech) | Covered shoulders and knees, closed shoes for uneven alleys |
| Hassan II Mosque | Shoulders, chest and knees covered; shoes removed inside |
| Sahara desert | Light long sleeves, scarf, sunglasses; fleece and hat for the night |
| Atlas Mountains | Layers, a waterproof jacket and walking shoes |
| Beaches (Essaouira, Agadir) | Normal swimwear on the beach, cover up when walking into town |
| Riads and hotels | Whatever you like |
Visiting the mosque? Read our Hassan II Mosque visitor guide.
What to wear by season
- Spring and autumn: light layers for the day, a sweater or light jacket for the evening.
- Summer: loose linen and cotton, a wide hat. The coast can be cool and windy in the evening.
- Winter: warm jacket, sweater, scarf and closed shoes. Desert nights and the Atlas are cold, and riads are not always heated.
Packing list
- 3 to 4 loose tops covering the shoulders
- 2 pairs of long trousers or long skirts
- 1 light scarf and 1 warm fleece or jacket
- Comfortable walking shoes and sandals
- Swimwear for the riad pool, hammam or beach
- Sunglasses, sun hat and sunscreen
- A small bag for the night in the desert
Buy local clothes
A light djellaba or a kaftan from the souk is comfortable, perfect for the desert and a lovely souvenir. Leather babouches (slippers) make good riad shoes. Bargain politely.
For more advice before your trip, read our 25 Morocco travel tips and our guide for women travellers.
Frequently asked questions
Can I wear shorts in Morocco?
Men can wear knee-length shorts in cities and tourist areas, though trousers are better in medinas. Women are more comfortable in long trousers, skirts or dresses away from the beach and hotels.
Do I need to cover my hair in Morocco?
No. Visitors do not need to cover their hair. A scarf is handy for sun, sand and respect at religious sites.
What should I wear in the Sahara desert?
Light long sleeves, loose trousers, a scarf and sunglasses during the day, and a warm fleece and hat for the night, which can be cold.
Can I wear a swimsuit in Morocco?
Yes, on beaches, at hotel and riad pools and in hammams. Cover up when you walk back into town.
Ready to pack? Browse our Morocco tours or ask us anything before your trip.