Can You Drink Alcohol in Morocco?

Can you drink alcohol in Morocco? Yes, but with some important rules and cultural awareness. Morocco is a Muslim-majority country, and although most locals avoid alcohol, it is legal for tourists to buy and consume it. According to Morocco alcohol laws, you can drink in licensed places such as hotels, restaurants, bars, and supermarkets. Drinking alcohol in public spaces like streets or beaches is strictly forbidden, and public intoxication can cause serious problems. Travelers should always enjoy alcohol discreetly and in appropriate venues.

If you’re wondering where to buy alcohol in Morocco, options include supermarkets like Carrefour and Marjane, licensed liquor shops in major cities, and tourist hotels or resorts serving wine, beer, and cocktails. During Ramadan, alcohol sales are more limited, but many tourist establishments still serve it quietly. From tasting Moroccan wine from the Meknes region to trying popular beers like Casablanca or Flag, or experiencing Marrakech nightlife, drinking alcohol in Morocco is possible as long as you respect the laws and local traditions.

Morocco Alcohol Laws and Regulations

Alcohol in Morocco is legal, but it is tightly regulated. Licensed bars, hotels, and restaurants are allowed to serve it, while supermarkets and liquor shops sell it in designated sections. Public intoxication is not tolerated, and carrying open bottles in the street is illegal. Police can fine or even arrest people who drink outside licensed areas, especially if they disturb others.

During Ramadan, Morocco alcohol laws are stricter. Most supermarkets and shops stop selling alcohol completely, and many local restaurants remove it from their menu. However, international hotels and some tourist bars may continue to serve it discreetly for foreign guests. For visitors asking is alcohol allowed in Morocco during Ramadan, the answer is yes, but with more limits and stronger expectations of cultural respect.

Where to Drink and Buy Alcohol in Morocco

Tourists can find alcohol in several places, but access depends on the city:

• Hotels and Resorts: The most convenient and comfortable option, since almost all international hotels in Marrakech, Agadir, Casablanca, and Fes serve wine, beer, and spirits.
• Restaurants and Bars: Some restaurants in tourist areas offer alcohol with meals, while big cities have bars and nightclubs. Marrakech is well known for venues like Theatro and Le Palace, and Agadir has popular beach clubs.
• Supermarkets and Liquor Shops: Chains such as Carrefour, and Atakadaw sell alcohol, along with specialized liquor shops in larger cities. These sections may be closed during religious holidays.
• Duty-Free and Bringing Your Own: Travelers can bring small amounts of alcohol into Morocco, usually one liter of spirits and a few bottles of wine or beer, which is a good option if you prefer specific brands.

In rural towns and small villages, alcohol is difficult to find, and it is best not to ask for it in traditional cafés or family restaurants.

Drinking Alcohol in Morocco During Ramadan

Drinking alcohol in Morocco during Ramadan is one of the most common concerns for travelers. While alcohol is not completely banned, access becomes very limited. Shops close their alcohol sections, and local bars and restaurants stop serving. However, many hotels that cater to international tourists continue to provide drinks, often discreetly.

If you visit during Ramadan, you should not expect to find alcohol easily, and if you do drink, avoid doing so in public. Out of respect for locals who are fasting, it is better to enjoy alcohol only in your hotel or a tourist bar.

Alcohol Prices and Local Options

Alcohol prices in Morocco are higher than in Europe, especially for imported products. However, locally produced wine and beer are more affordable. Morocco produces quality wines in the Meknes region, and popular Moroccan beers like Casablanca, Flag, and Stork are widely available.

Expect to pay €3-€6 for a beer in a bar or restaurant, while a bottle of Moroccan wine in a supermarket usually costs between €8 and €15. Imported spirits such as whiskey, vodka, or gin are significantly more expensive. Tourists who want to save money often choose Moroccan products, which are cheaper and part of the cultural experience.

Cultural Considerations for Drinking Alcohol in Morocco

Even though drinking alcohol in Morocco is legal, it is important to respect local customs. Tourists should avoid drinking on the streets, carrying bottles openly, or showing signs of drunkenness in public. These behaviors are seen as offensive and may result in problems with the police.

In smaller towns and rural areas, alcohol is less common, and asking for it may make locals uncomfortable. The safest approach is to drink in international hotels, tourist restaurants, or bars designed for foreigners. By being discreet and respectful, you can enjoy alcohol without offending anyone.

Alternatives to Alcohol in Morocco

Morocco is also famous for its traditional non-alcoholic drinks, which are an important part of daily life. Moroccan mint tea, sometimes called a Moroccan whiskey, is a staple drink served throughout the country and is a symbol of hospitality. Fresh orange juice is popular in Marrakech Jemaa el-Fnaa square, and smoothies made from dates, almonds, or avocado are a favorite among locals.

Even if you enjoy alcohol, trying these traditional Moroccan drinks is essential to experiencing the country’s culture.

Conclusion

So, can you drink alcohol in Morocco? Yes alcohol is legal and available in hotels, restaurants, bars, supermarkets, and nightclubs, but it is regulated by Moroccan alcohol laws and cultural traditions. Drinking in public is not allowed, and being drunk in the streets can lead to serious problems. During Ramadan, access becomes more limited, but tourists can usually still find alcohol in international hotels and certain tourist establishments.

For visitors wondering is alcohol allowed in Morocco for tourists, the answer is absolutely yes, as long as you drink responsibly and with respect. Whether you are enjoying Moroccan wine in Fes, a cold Casablanca beer in Agadir, or nightlife in Marrakech, you can experience alcohol in Morocco safely while still respecting the country’s culture and religion.

FAQs About Drinking Alcohol in Morocco

Can tourists drink alcohol in Morocco?

Yes, tourists can drink alcohol in Morocco. While most locals abstain for religious reasons, alcohol is legal for visitors and is available in licensed hotels, restaurants, bars, and supermarkets. Drinking alcohol in public spaces is forbidden, so tourists should enjoy it discreetly and in the proper venues.

Is alcohol legal in Morocco for foreigners?

Yes, Morocco alcohol laws apply to both locals and foreigners. Tourists can buy and consume alcohol in hotels, bars, restaurants, and liquor stores in major cities. However, public intoxication is not tolerated, and drinking in streets, beaches, or public squares can lead to fines or legal issues.

Where can you buy alcohol in Morocco?

Alcohol can be purchased in supermarkets like Carrefour and Marjane, licensed liquor stores in large cities, and duty-free shops at airports. Many hotels and resorts also sell beer, wine, and spirits. In smaller towns or rural areas, alcohol is much harder to find, so tourists usually rely on major cities or hotels.

Can you drink alcohol in Marrakech?

Yes, Marrakech is one of the best cities in Morocco for tourists who want to enjoy alcohol. Licensed hotels, restaurants, and bars serve wine, beer, and cocktails. Nightclubs like Theatro and Le Palace also offer drinks. Drinking should still be done discreetly, especially outside tourist areas.

Is alcohol available during Ramadan in Morocco?

During Ramadan, alcohol sales are limited, and many shops and restaurants stop serving it. However, hotels and tourist bars often continue to offer drinks discreetly for foreign visitors. Tourists should avoid drinking in public to respect the fasting majority.

Can you bring alcohol into Morocco?

Yes, travelers are allowed to bring a limited quantity of alcohol into Morocco, typically one liter of spirits and a few bottles of wine or beer. This is a good option for visitors who want specific brands or prefer imported drinks.

Are Moroccan wines and beers good?

Morocco produces quality wines, especially in the Meknes region, which are recognized internationally. Popular local beers include Casablanca, Flag, and Stork. Moroccan beverages are a great way for tourists to enjoy local culture while drinking legally and responsibly.