Money in Morocco: Currency, Cards, ATMs, Tipping & Bargaining

Morocco’s currency is the dirham (MAD), and it is a "closed" currency — you cannot buy it before you arrive or take it home. Withdraw dirhams from an ATM in the airport arrivals hall when you land. Cards are accepted in hotels, riads and larger restaurants and shops; everything else — taxis, souks, cafes, tips, rural stops — runs on cash.

What currency does Morocco use?

The Moroccan dirham, written MAD or Dh, divided into 100 centimes. In 2026 it trades at roughly 10–11 dirhams to the euro and 9–10 to the US dollar. In the souks some older vendors still quote prices in "rial" or in centimes — always confirm the figure in dirhams.

Should I bring cash or use ATMs?

Use ATMs. They are common in every city and town and give the best exchange rate. Bring a modest amount of euros or dollars only as a backup. Airport exchange counters work for your first taxi but their rates are poor.

How much can I withdraw from a Moroccan ATM?

Typically 2,000 dirhams per transaction and around 4,000 per day, though it varies by bank and by your home card’s own limit. There is usually a fixed fee of about 20–40 dirhams per withdrawal, so take larger amounts less often to reduce the cost.

Can you use credit cards in Morocco?

In hotels, riads, supermarkets, petrol stations and mid-to-upscale restaurants, yes — Visa and Mastercard are standard, Amex rarely. Souk stalls, small cafes, taxis, hammams and rural guesthouses are cash only. Carry a Visa or Mastercard plus enough cash for two or three days.

Do I need small notes?

Yes, badly. ATMs dispense 100 and 200 dirham notes, and taxi drivers and stallholders will rarely have change for them. Ask your riad or a bank for a stack of 20s and small coins early in the trip — it is the single most useful money habit in Morocco.

How much should I tip in Morocco?

Tipping, or baksheesh, is customary and always given in dirham cash. Rough guide: around 10% in restaurants (check it is not already added), 10–20 dirhams for a cafe or a helpful stranger, about 10 dirhams per bag for porters, and 20–50 dirhams for housekeeping over a stay.

How much do you tip a tour guide or driver in Morocco?

About 100–200 dirhams per day for a private driver-guide, handed over at the end of the tour, and 50–100 dirhams for a half-day city guide. For a one-week private tour, 300–500 dirhams total per couple covers all tipping comfortably.

How does bargaining work?

Haggling is expected for crafts, rugs, leather and souvenirs — not for food, pharmacy items, or anything with a marked price. Let the seller name the first number, counter well below it, stay good-humoured, and be willing to walk away. Our culture and traditions guide has more on the etiquette.

How much money should I budget per day?

Roughly €40–70 a day for budget travel, €100–180 mid-range, and €250 or more for comfort or a private tour. Our Morocco trip cost breakdown has the full picture, and to plan a trip with the costs fixed up front, contact us.