What is the currency in Morocco? Currency and Payment

If you go to Morocco you'll use the dirham, the Moroccan currency, for all your transactions. Whether it's about the form that currency in Morocco takes (coins and banknotes) or how it is used (payments, withdrawals, exchange), it's important to learn about these things before you set off. In this guide, you'll learn everything you need to know about currency in Morocco so that you can travel with complete confidence.

What is the official currency in Morocco?

The official currency in Morocco is the Moroccan dirham, which is issued by Morocco's central bank, the Bank Al-Maghrib:

• Its symbol is "DH" and, in Morocco, "د.م",
• Its code is MAD (Moroccan dirham),
• 1 euro is worth around 10.82 dirhams,
• Each dirham can be divided into 100 centimes (santimat).

Check the latest euro-dirham conversion rate. The currency in Morocco also includes the rial, which is the former official currency and is still used for small everyday transactions, particularly at grocery stores and markets. The dirham-rial conversion is simple — 1 Moroccan dirham is equivalent to 20 rials.

What are the coins and banknotes in Moroccan currency?

Moroccan currency consists of various coins and banknotes, ranging from 5 centimes to 200 dirhams:

• Coins in Moroccan currency: 5, 10 and 20 cents, and 0.5, 1, 2, 5 and 10 dirhams,
• Moroccan banknotes: 20, 50, 100 and 200 dirhams.

Send money to Morocco with Western Union

With Western Union, you can send money to Morocco in just a few clicks at a great rate.

How can you pay in Morocco?

In Morocco, you can pay in several ways: cash, bank card, mobile, or bank transfer. While cash is by far the simplest and most common way to pay for purchases with Moroccan currency, payment by bank card is also widespread, especially in tourist areas. Let's go over the details of these different payment methods:

• Cash: 90% of purchases in Morocco, whether small or large, are made using cash. Take care, though — Moroccan currency is semi-flexible. That means you can't normally buy or sell Moroccan dirhams outside the country.

• Bank card (credit or debit): Payment by bank card is often possible in major cities and at a large number of the country's businesses and establishments. Pay attention, though, to the exchange rate and the different fees and charges applied.
• Mobile payments: inwi money and Orange Money allow payment for certain transactions directly from your smartphone.

• Bank transfer: In some cases, such as for online purchases, you can pay for transactions by bank transfer.

Whatever the method of payment, learn to haggle in stores and souks — this experience is an essential part of any stay in Morocco, and key to avoid being ripped off. To negotiate well, it's important to choose the store wisely, know the approximate price of the item you want, and the maximum price you're willing to pay. Above all, always have a smile on your face.

Can you pay in euro in Morocco?

Yes, you can pay in euro in Morocco if you don't have Moroccan currency on you. Hotels, souks and most tourist attractions accept payment in euro. So, it may be worthwhile having some euro banknotes with you in case you need them. The exchange rate can be unfavorable, though, because the euro will be converted at the discretion of the seller (with a margin for the storekeeper), and change will be given in Moroccan dirhams. So you'll lose a little money in these transactions most of the time. Unless it's an emergency, it's best to pay with local Moroccan money.

Where can you change money in Morocco?

You can change your money in Morocco:

• At foreign exchange counters, which are very common in cities (especially for changing currency in Marrakech or Agadir),
• At foreign exchange counters at ports or airports (often unfavorable),
• At banks,
• At hotels,
• At some tourist locations.

Wherever you change your money in Morocco, pay attention to the exchange rates offered, which will vary from place to place with each establishment applying its own rate (except at large hotels and banks, where rates are regulated). Also take into account whether or not there is a fee, so that you get as muchMoroccan money as possible. Get the best exchange rates with Western Union. Whether you're changing your euro to Moroccan currency or receiving money, enjoy a safe, fast, and favorable service.

Where can you withdraw money in Morocco?

You can withdraw money in Morocco at any ATM in the country. This is the most convenient way to get Moroccan currency. There are a very large number of ATMs at banks, airports, hotels, bars, souks and tourist locations, etc. The upper limit for withdrawals is generally 2000 dirhams (approx. 200 euro). Avoid ATMs in very touristy areas, though — as with exchange rates, withdrawal fees can be high. Similarly, usage fees may be applied, meaning that your withdrawal may cost more than you want. As we said before, the Moroccan currency is semi-flexible, and you aren't supposed to leave the country with Moroccan dirhams in your pocket. So, it's advisable to change your Moroccan money on the last day before you go to the airport, or at the airport itself.

FAQs

What is the Moroccan dirham exchange rate? The Moroccan dirham exchange rate is approximately:

• 1 euro = 10.83 dirhams,
• 1 dirham = 0.09 euro

Easily convert EUR to MAD with Western Union, whatever the amount. How can I send money to Morocco? With Western Union, easily send money to Morocco from France:

• Online in a few clicks via our website,
• With our mobile app,
• In person, by going to an agent location.

Your receiver can get the money in cash, in their account (via their Moroccan IBAN) or in their mobile wallet.