Can You Bring a Drone to Morocco? Rules for Travellers

Short answer: do not pack a drone for a holiday in Morocco. Drones are tightly controlled, and bringing one into the country without prior authorisation from the Moroccan authorities is not allowed. Travellers who arrive with an undeclared drone regularly have it held by customs at the airport, and flying one without permission can lead to confiscation and legal trouble. Authorisation is possible for professional filming, but it is a formal process that takes time and is not designed for holiday footage.

Below is what travellers need to know, and how to get beautiful aerial-style images of Morocco without a drone.

#Are drones legal in Morocco?

Morocco treats drones as sensitive equipment. Their import, possession and use are regulated, and in practice a private visitor cannot simply bring a drone and fly it. The rules sit with several authorities, including customs, civil aviation and the security services, and permission has to be granted in advance.

Because rules and procedures can change, always check the current position with the Moroccan embassy or consulate in your country before you travel. Do not rely on forum posts from a few years ago.

#What happens if you bring a drone to Morocco?

Moroccan customs scan luggage on arrival, and drones are easy to spot. If you arrive without authorisation, the most common outcome is that the drone is held at the airport. Some travellers have been able to collect it when they leave the country; others have not. Either way, you lose the drone for your whole trip and spend time dealing with paperwork on arrival.

Flying a drone without authorisation is a more serious matter than carrying one. It can lead to confiscation and to questioning by the police, especially near palaces, government buildings, military areas, airports and borders.

#Can you get permission to fly a drone in Morocco?

Professional film and photography crews do obtain authorisation, usually through a local production fixer and well in advance of the shoot. The process typically involves an application describing the equipment, the locations and the purpose of filming. It is not practical for a holiday, and there is no on-arrival permit for tourists.

If you are planning a professional shoot in Morocco, start the process early and work with an experienced local production company.

#What about drone-like shots of the desert and the Atlas?

You can still come home with spectacular views:

• Hot-air balloon over Marrakech. A sunrise flight gives you the aerial perspective of the Atlas foothills and the palm groves that most people want from a drone. See our guide to the hot-air balloon in Marrakech.
• Dune tops at sunrise and sunset. Climbing a high dune in Erg Chebbi near Merzouga gives a vast view over the sand sea. Our desert tours from Marrakech are timed for these moments.
• Mountain passes. The Tizi n'Tichka pass across the High Atlas has superb viewpoints on the road between Marrakech and Ouarzazate.
• Rooftops and terraces. Medina rooftops in Marrakech and Fes give the classic view over the old city.
• Action cameras on poles. A small camera on a pole gives an elevated angle and is far less likely to attract attention, though you should still be respectful when photographing people and sites.

#Photography etiquette in Morocco

• Always ask before photographing people, and accept a "no" with good grace.
• Some people may ask for a small tip in return for a photo; agree before you take it.
• Do not photograph military sites, police, palace guards or airports.
• Be especially discreet around mosques and during prayer times.

Our photography tips for Morocco cover light, timing and the best places to shoot.

#Frequently asked questions

Can I bring a drone to Morocco as a tourist?

Not without prior authorisation. Undeclared drones are commonly held by customs on arrival, so it is best to leave yours at home.

Will Moroccan customs confiscate my drone?

Drones brought in without authorisation are usually held at the airport. Some travellers collect them on departure; there is no guarantee.

Can I fly a drone in the Sahara?

Not without authorisation. The rules apply across the country, including the desert.

How do professionals film drone footage in Morocco?

They apply for authorisation in advance, usually through a local production company that handles the paperwork.

What is the best alternative to a drone in Morocco?

A sunrise hot-air balloon flight near Marrakech, viewpoints on high dunes and mountain passes, and medina rooftops all give spectacular elevated views.

#Plan your trip

If photography is a big part of your trip, tell us. We plan routes around the best light, the quietest viewpoints and the right season. Explore our photography tours, browse all tours or get in touch.