Yes, you can drink alcohol, but its availability and consumption are governed by important legal restrictions and cultural etiquette. This guide covers where to buy it, legal requirements, and key cultural nuances.
Yes, you can drink alcohol in Morocco, especially for tourists and non-Muslims, but it is subject to important regulations and cultural norms.
Tourists can legally enjoy alcoholic beverages in licensed establishments like hotels and restaurants, Contrary to what many visitors assume, alcohol consumption is legal in Morocco. However, this legality comes with significant restrictions that differ from what you might be accustomed to in Western countries. Understanding these nuances is essential for enjoying your trip without inadvertently crossing cultural or legal boundaries.
Large supermarket chains like Carrefour and Marjane sell alcohol in major cities. Look for a separate room or section with its own entrance, as alcohol is kept apart from other products. These sections typically have their own cashiers and may have security personnel. Dedicated liquor stores exist in urban areas and tourist destinations. These shops often have a wider selection than supermarkets but may be less obvious from the street; ask your hotel staff for directions to the nearest one. If you’re flying into Morocco, airport duty-free shops offer another option to purchase alcohol, though you’re limited to bringing in one liter of alcohol per person when entering the country. Shopping Hours and Restrictions: Alcohol sales in Morocco follow specific hours and may have additional restrictions. Most liquor stores and supermarket alcohol sections operate from approximately 10:00 AM to 8:00 PM. Alcohol sales are often suspended on Fridays (the Muslim holy day) during prayer times. During Ramadan, many stores stop selling alcohol entirely or significantly reduce their hours. Some stores may require you to show your passport to prove you’re a tourist.
Most international hotels and many riads (traditional Moroccan houses) have bars or restaurants that serve alcohol. These establishments cater primarily to tourists and provide a comfortable environment for drinking. Higher-end restaurants, particularly those in tourist areas, often serve alcohol with meals. However, not all restaurants offer alcoholic beverages, so it’s best to check in advance. Dedicated bars and nightclubs exist in major cities like Marrakech, Casablanca, and Tangier. These venues typically cater to tourists and expatriates rather than locals.
Yes, tourists are legally allowed to bring alcohol into Morocco, but there is a strict limit on the quantity you can import duty-free. The standard allowance per adult traveler (18 years or older) is: 1 liter of spirits (or other high-proof alcohol) and 1 liter of wine. Alternatively, you may bring the equivalent total amount of alcohol.
Large supermarket chains like Carrefour and Menara Mall sell alcohol in major cities. Look for a separate room or section with its own entrance, as alcohol is kept apart from other products. These sections typically have their own cashiers and may have security personnel.
Yes, the bars and clubs in Marrakesh are generally considered safe for tourists, including solo female travelers, provided you exercise standard precautions and are aware of the cultural context.
Yes, tourists can still find alcohol during Ramadan, but it’s limited to certain places. Big international hotels and upscale tourist restaurants typically keep serving it. On the other hand, most supermarket alcohol sections and liquor stores are usually shut down or have really limited hours. Tourists need to be super discreet and should avoid drinking alcohol in public.
Public consumption of alcohol is illegal in Morocco and can result in fines or even detention, particularly if combined with disorderly behavior. While enforcement may vary, it’s never worth the risk. Always consume alcohol only in licensed establishments or private accommodations.
Yes. Alcohol is generally not available within the old medinas (historic city centers), near mosques or other religious sites, and in more conservative rural areas. Additionally, some smaller towns may not have any establishments licensed to sell alcohol.
The main Moroccan beer brands are: Casablanca (a Pale Lager, considered the premium local choice and popular in tourist areas); Flag Spéciale (a Pilsner/Lager that is the best-selling and most common beer, known for being refreshing); and Stork (a Light Lager, often the lightest and least expensive local brand). You will also commonly find Heineken, which is brewed locally under license.
The length of time alcohol stays in urine is typically 12 to 24 hours for a standard urine alcohol test that measures ethanol.
However, highly sensitive tests that measure alcohol metabolites (like EtG/EtS) can detect alcohol use for up to 72 hours (3 days), and sometimes up to 80 hours after heavy consumption.
The average price of a local Moroccan beer (like Flag Spéciale or Casablanca) is: In a Supermarket or Liquor Store: 15 MAD to 25 MAD (about $1.50 to $2.50 USD). In a Licensed Bar or Restaurant: 50 MAD to 80 MAD (about $5 to $8 USD).
