Morocco is still a cash economy. Credit cards work in some places, but they are not reliable everywhere. Pretend you are visiting 1995 and plan accordingly.

This does not mean Morocco is unsafe or backward, it just means you need to understand the money system before you arrive.

Where Cards Work (Barely)

Cards are accepted in:

  • Major hotels (most of the time)
  • Upmarket restaurants (some of the time)
  • Chain supermarkets like Carrefour and Marjane
  • Some tourist-heavy shops
  • Very few riads (ask when booking)

But “work” is generous. Card readers break down. Systems go offline. Internet cuts out. Even in major cities, card payments fail often enough that relying on them is genuinely risky.

Where Cards Do Not Work (Most Places)

Cards do not work in:

  • Local cafés and street food stalls (always cash)
  • Taxis (always cash)
  • Souks and medina shops (always cash)
  • Local restaurants (usually cash)
  • Guesthouses outside major cities (almost always cash)
  • Markets and street vendors (always cash)
  • Hammams (always cash)

This covers about 70% of where you will spend money during a typical Morocco trip.

The Daily Cash Reality

You need to carry cash every single day. The amount depends on your spending style:

Budget traveller: 200-300 MAD per day (£18-28) Moderate traveller: 400-500 MAD per day (£37-46) Comfortable traveller: 600-800 MAD per day (£55-74)

These figures assume accommodation, food, and transport but not luxury experiences. A two-hour camel trek is 200 MAD. A private Sahara tour is 1,500+ MAD.

How to Get Cash

At the Airport

There are ATMs at Marrakech Airport (Menara) and Marrakech Airport terminals. The exchange rate is fair but expect a small fee. You can also exchange cash at the airport, but the rate is worse.

ATMs in Cities

ATMs are everywhere in Marrakech, Fez, Agadir, and other major cities. Use ATMs from major banks: BMCE, Banque Populaire, Crédit Agricole. These are generally safe and reliable.

Withdrawal limit varies by ATM and your bank. Most allow 1,000-2,000 MAD per transaction.

Exchange Cash

UK: bring £200-300 in cash and exchange for MAD at the airport or a bureau de change (avoid airport exchange if possible, rates are poor)

EUR: bring EUR if you are from the EU, better rates than GBP usually

USD: USD is accepted in tourist areas and exchanges easily, but GBP and EUR are better

Do Not Use Airport Exchange

The airport exchange offers a terrible rate. If you must exchange, do it at a bank or official bureau de change in the city. Or better yet, use ATMs.

Currency and Current Rates (March 2026)

Morocco uses the Moroccan Dirham (MAD).

  • 1 GBP = approximately 12.6 MAD
  • 1 EUR = approximately 10.8 MAD

These rates fluctuate, but this is roughly what to expect. Always check before you travel.

Critical note: MAD is a closed currency. You cannot buy it outside Morocco or sell it back after you leave. So bring the amount you need, no more.

Safety: Carrying Cash

Carrying cash in Morocco is safe if you are smart:

  • Keep most money in a hidden money belt or neck pouch
  • Keep only the day’s amount (50-100 MAD) in your regular wallet
  • Do not flash large amounts of cash
  • Do not carry cash loosely in your back pocket or day bag

This is just common sense, not paranoia. Pickpocketing happens, but it is rare if you are aware.

Cards: Which to Bring

Visa and Mastercard

These work in major tourist areas and upmarket establishments. Visa is slightly more accepted than Mastercard. Bring one as a backup, not your primary payment method.

Revolut or Starling Bank (UK/Irish)

If you have a Revolut or Starling card, these are excellent in Morocco. Withdrawals are fee-free at most ATMs and the exchange rate is better than traditional banks. Highly recommended if you have access.

American Express

Amex is rarely accepted outside top-end hotels. Do not rely on it.

Things to Know

Tipping is Expected (Sometimes in Cash)

You do not need to carry extra cash for tips, but if you are paying for a guide or driver, they expect a tip (50-100 MAD) in cash.

ATMs Charge Fees

Your home bank will charge a fee for foreign ATM withdrawal (usually £1.50-3 per transaction). Budget for this.

Some Banks Close on Sundays

If you need to exchange cash outside normal hours, plan ahead. Most cities have at least one exchange office open Sundays, but not guaranteed.

FAQ

Can I use my credit card in restaurants?

Possibly, but assume cash. Many restaurants say they take cards and then their system fails. Always ask and have cash as backup.

What if I run out of cash?

Find an ATM or go to a bank. You will not be stranded. ATMs are common.

Is it safe to carry 5,000 MAD?

Yes, but it is bulky. MAD notes are large and not very high value. 5,000 MAD is roughly £400 but takes up space. Carry what you need for 2-3 days and withdraw regularly.

Should I exchange cash or use ATM?

ATM is usually better unless you are using Revolut or Starling. Exchange offices are convenient but offer worse rates.

Can I use cash outside cities?

Yes, but ATMs become scarcer. In small towns and villages, ATMs may be limited. Withdraw cash in major cities if you are heading to rural areas.

Related reading: Morocco First-Time Guide | Morocco Packing List