Local Customs & Etiquette in Rabat, Rabat-Salé-Kénitra, Morocco
1. Mosque Etiquette
Respect local customs by wearing modest clothing when visiting mosques. Remove shoes before entering.
- Modesty: Women should cover their heads and arms.
- Removal of Footwear: Shoes are not allowed in the prayer hall.
- Punctuality: Arrive on time as prayers start promptly.
2. Greeting Culture
Use a firm handshake when greeting men. Women should wait for the Moroccan woman to offer a handshake.
- Gender Consideration: Different rules apply for greeting men and women.
- Firmness: Handshakes should be firm but not crushing.
- Eye Contact: Maintain eye contact during the greeting to show respect.
3. Haggling in Souks
Bargaining is expected when buying from souks. Start at a lower price and work up.
- Bargaining Skills: Know your limits and walk away if the price isn't right.
- Patience: Be patient during the negotiation process.
- Politeness: Maintain a friendly and respectful demeanor throughout.
4. Ramadan Etiquette
Respect Ramadan by not eating, drinking or smoking in public during daylight hours.
- Respect for Religious Practices: Avoid food and drink during daytime.
- Evening Activities: Plan your activities for after sunset when the fast is broken.
- Dress Code: Dress modestly as a sign of respect during Ramadan.
5. Public Expressions of Affection
Keep public displays of affection to a minimum in conservative areas.
- Respect for Cultural Norms: Demonstrate restraint in public.
- Awareness of Surroundings: Choose appropriate places to show affection.
- Privacy: Save more intimate moments for private settings.
6. Tipping Customs
Tip service staff generously as it's a common practice in Morocco.
- Appreciation for Service: Reward good service with a tip.
- Average Tip Amount: 10% of the bill is considered an acceptable tip.
- Rounding Up: Round up the bill to make it easier for service staff.
7. Dining Etiquette
Wait to be shown to your seat when dining in a restaurant.
- Respect for Hierarchy: Let the host decide where you sit.
- Bon Appétit!: Say 'Bismillah' before starting your meal.
- Table Manners: Use your right hand for eating and drinking.
8. Photography Etiquette
Ask permission before taking photos of people, especially in conservative areas.
- Respect for Privacy: Never take photos without consent.
- Consideration for Subject: Offer a small tip if someone allows you to take their photo.
- Cultural Sensitivity: Avoid taking photos of religious sites without permission.
9. Women's Dress Code
Dress modestly as a sign of respect for local customs. Avoid wearing revealing clothing.
- Modesty: Cover shoulders and knees.
- Comfort: Choose light, breathable fabrics for the heat.
- Local Style: Consider wearing a djellaba or a headscarf.
10. Bus Travel Etiquette
Give up your seat to elderly or pregnant women when traveling by bus.
- Respect for Elders: Offer your seat if you see an elderly person standing.
- Courtesy: Avoid blocking the aisle with your bags.
- Punctuality: Arrive at the bus stop on time.
11. Bargaining in Taxis
Negotiate the fare before getting into a taxi.
- Awareness of Rates: Know the standard rate for taxis.
- Fairness: Don't settle for an unfair price.
- Confidence: Negotiate with confidence but remain polite.
12. Market Bargaining
Bargain for the best price when shopping in markets.
- Skillful Negotiation: Master the art of haggling.
- Patience: Take your time and don't rush the process.
- Persistence: Don't give up if you don't get the price you want initially.
13. Eid Al-Fitr Celebration
Join the celebration of Eid Al-Fitr by attending communal prayers and sharing sweets.
- Religious Significance: Eid marks the end of Ramadan.
- Community Spirit: Participate in the communal prayers and festivities.
- Sharing Sweets: Offer sweets to friends and family as a sign of goodwill.
14. Casablanca-Rabat Express Train
Respect train etiquette by giving up your seat to elderly or pregnant women.
- Respect for Elders: Offer your seat if you see an elderly person standing.
- Courtesy: Avoid blocking the aisle with your bags.
- Punctuality: Arrive at the train station on time.
15. Traditional Tea Ceremony
Participate in a traditional tea ceremony to experience Moroccan hospitality.
- Hospitality: Tea is a sign of warmth and friendship.
- Graciousness: Accept tea with both hands as a gesture of thanks.
- Patience: Savor the tea slowly and enjoy the conversation.