Moroccan Etiquette

I just came back from Morocco and did a ton of research before I went. Here are some notes on etiquette for while you visit Morocco.

You can also get more details I prepared for my guests that attended my wedding on our wedding site: https://theknot.com/us/albeekimzies

Attire: Ladies cover shoulders, chest, midriff, and knees in public. Use a scarf or wrap if you're wearing something revealing. You will be treated with more respect if you are dressed more conservative. At hotels, you can dress however you like.

Men should try covering their shoulders as well. Athletic shorts and tanks are okay during sports activities.

Marrakech is pretty used to westerners but keep in mind some of the more conservative towns expect you to cover up elbows and calves as well.

Greeting & Gestures: Men and women should not embrace in public. Same sex greetings are okay.

When taking photos, be sure to ask before taking anyone’s photo or taking photos of their shop.

Using your index finger to motion a person to approach you is considered impolite. Moroccans -- as with most non-Western cultures -- beckon someone by placing the palm downward and sweeping the hand toward themselves.

It is polite to take off shoes or sandals when entering someone's home.

Eating & Drinking:

The left hand is considered unclean. Eat with your right hand only but you can drink and pass dishes with your left hand. To decline an offer of food, simply pat your stomach and shake your head, followed by "La, shukrran" (No, thank you).