Moroccan Dirham Guide: Money, ATMs and Currency Exchange Tips

The Moroccan dirham (MAD) is a closed currency, meaning you generally cannot buy it outside Morocco — plan to exchange money or withdraw cash after you land, at the airport, a bank, or an ATM, rather than trying to source dirhams before your trip.

Where to Get Dirhams

Airport exchange counters and ATMs in Casablanca, Marrakech and other major cities are reliable and widely available; rates at the airport are generally reasonable in Morocco (unlike some destinations), so there's little downside to withdrawing what you need on arrival. ATMs are the simplest option throughout the trip — they're common in every city and town on our itineraries, though genuinely scarce once you're in smaller villages or the desert.

Cards vs Cash

Larger hotels, riads and restaurants in Marrakech, Fes and Casablanca generally accept cards, but smaller shops, cafes, souk vendors, and rural stops run cash-only — carrying a reasonable amount of cash throughout your trip, not just on arrival, is genuinely necessary rather than optional.

Before You Leave the Country

Since dirhams aren't easily exchanged back once you're home (the closed-currency issue works both ways), it's worth spending down your cash toward the end of the trip or exchanging any excess back at the airport before departure, where rates are typically fair.

Tipping and Small Bills

Keep a supply of smaller denomination notes and coins for tips, which come up often in Morocco — drivers, guides, riad staff and restaurant service are all customarily tipped. See our full tipping guide for specific amounts.

How This Works on Our Tours

Most major costs — private driver, accommodation, guided tours, entrance fees — are already covered on any of our itineraries including the 8 day tour, so day-to-day cash needs are mainly for meals not included, souvenirs, and tips.