Ramadan and Tourism in Morocco

Ramadan hardly affects tourists to Morocco. Tourism is the largest form of income in Morocco, and the main changes you will notice are that offices and banks change their hours slightly and some shops close earlier for the staff to get home and eat their evening meal at sunset. Otherwise, shops and sights that you may want to visit are generally open as normal.

Food and drink (alcoholic or otherwise) is available throughout daylight hours in hotels and tourist restaurants. As a matter of respect, you should not walk in the streets eating or drinking and if you are in a shop, you should try not to smoke. In many ways, Ramadan is a good time to visit Morocco as it is less crowded and less busy and some hotels reduce their rates during Ramadan.

Following Ramadan is Ede, a three-day celebration. During this holiday it is more likely that shops (including the souks, but not restaurants) will be closed, and other services may be disrupted.

It should be noted that the first call to prayer occurs in the early hours of the morning (not only during Ramadan). Since this is often a loud siren it may awaken light sleepers or those in riads near to a mosque. If you are a light sleeper or are staying in a Riad, you may find earplugs useful!

    2015 – 18th June – 17th July
    2016 – 6th June – 5th July
    2017 – 27th May – 24 June