Morocco uses European-standard plugs and sockets. If you are from the UK, US, Canada, or Australia, you need an adapter. If you are from the EU, you need nothing.

This is simpler than you think. Here is exactly what to bring.

Morocco Socket Types

Morocco uses two socket types:

Type C

Two round pins in a line, no earth (grounding) pin. This is the standard European two-pin plug. Very common in riads and guesthouses.

Type E

Two round pins plus an earth pin above. This is the standard in France and common in modern Moroccan buildings and hotels. The earth pin clicks into a socket on the plug.

Most Moroccan hotels and riads have Type C outlets. Type E is becoming more common in newer buildings.

In practice: a Type C/E adapter handles both and you will be fine.

By Country: What Adapter You Need

UK

You need a Type C/E adapter (European two-pin). UK plugs are rectangular, Morocco plugs are round. Cost: £5-10. Buy one before you travel. They are stocked in Boots, John Lewis, supermarkets.

US and Canada

You need a Type C/E adapter. US/Canada plugs are two flat pins, Morocco uses round pins. Additionally, US/Canada voltage is 120V, Morocco is 220V. Most modern USB chargers and laptops handle both voltages (check your charger), but older devices might not. See voltage section below.

Cost: £5-15 for a good adapter.

Australia and New Zealand

You need a Type C/E adapter. AU/NZ plugs are angled two pins, Morocco uses round pins. Cost: £5-10.

Ireland

You need a Type C/E adapter. Irish plugs are similar to UK plugs (larger three pins), Morocco uses smaller round pins. Cost: £5-10.

Voltage: Do You Need a Converter?

Morocco uses 220V electricity (the standard across Europe).

  • UK: 230V (very close, no converter needed)
  • EU: 220V (exact match, no converter needed)
  • US/Canada: 120V (half the voltage, requires consideration)
  • Australia/NZ: 230V (very close, no converter needed)

For US/Canada travellers:

Most modern phone chargers, laptop chargers, and USB-C chargers are dual voltage (they say “100-240V” on the label). Check your charger. If it says 100-240V, you need only an adapter, not a converter.

If you have older devices (older laptop chargers, hair dryers, electric shavers) that say only “120V,” these will not work in Morocco without a voltage converter. Voltage converters are expensive (£30-50) and bulky. Better option: buy a new charger in Morocco or leave the device at home.

Converters are rarely worth it for a short trip. Travel-size hair dryers that are dual voltage (sold for this purpose) are better.

Universal Adapters

A universal travel adapter (like Skross or Anker) handles Type C and E plugs plus sockets for US, UK, and Australian plugs. Cost: £15-25. Useful if you travel to multiple countries.

For Morocco-only, a simple Type C/E adapter is cheaper and sufficient.

Buying an Adapter in Morocco

If you forget, do not panic. Adapters are available:

  • Marrakech Airport has shops with adapters
  • Carrefour and Marjane supermarkets sell adapters
  • Phone shops sell adapters
  • Most hotels can lend adapters if you are stuck

Prices in Morocco are similar to home (sometimes more). Better to buy before travel, but you will not be stranded without one.

USB-C and USB Charging

Most USB chargers are dual voltage and work fine in Morocco. That means:

  • Your phone charger (USB-C) works with a Type C/E adapter
  • Portable battery packs work
  • Tablet chargers work

If your charger says 100-240V on the label, it works everywhere and you just need the plug adapter.

Riads and Guesthouses: Outlet Quantity

Be aware: riads and budget guesthouses often have very few outlet options. A room might have one outlet, and it is in an inconvenient corner.

Solution: bring a power strip or USB charging hub. A lightweight 4-outlet power strip (dual voltage) costs £10 and solves this problem. One adapter, one power strip, and everyone can charge.

Safety Note

Morocco’s electrical system is safe and well-maintained in tourist areas. Outlets ground properly (modern ones). Power surges are rare. You can use electrical items without worry. Just use the correct adapter.

FAQ

Can I use a UK adapter in Morocco?

No. UK plugs are not compatible with Moroccan Type C/E sockets. You need a Type C/E adapter.

Is 220V dangerous compared to 120V?

No. The voltage difference is about the electricity, not danger. 220V is standard worldwide (except US, Canada, Japan, Brazil). It is completely safe when used with proper plugs.

What if I use the wrong adapter?

Your device will not fit the socket. You cannot force it. Get the right adapter.

Can I charge a US device in Morocco without a converter?

If the charger says 100-240V, yes. If it says 120V only, no. Check your charger label before you leave.

Do airports have adapters for sale?

Yes, but expect to pay more. Better to buy at home for cheaper.

Is a universal adapter worth it?

For one trip to Morocco, a simple Type C/E adapter is fine. For frequent travel to Europe and beyond, a universal adapter is worth the investment.

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