What is etiquette between men and women / gender norms in Morocco?

Gender etiquette in Morocco rewards a bit of awareness, and the country is often more relaxed than first-time visitors fear — Moroccan women work, study, drive and run businesses, and in cosmopolitan Marrakech, Rabat or Casablanca you will see a wide spectrum of dress and behaviour. That said, public life retains a conservative grain, and a little sensitivity goes a long way. The guiding principle I give every client is to let the Moroccan woman set the tone in any cross-gender interaction: she will signal whether she wants to shake hands or prefers a hand-on-heart greeting, and following her lead is always correct.

Public displays of affection between couples — even married ones — are best kept minimal. Holding hands is fine, but kissing and embracing in public will draw disapproving looks, particularly away from tourist zones. Same-sex friends, by contrast, are often physically warm with each other in ways that surprise Westerners; men may hold hands or walk arm in arm as a sign of ordinary friendship, with no romantic meaning. Modest dress for both sexes smooths every interaction; for women, covering shoulders and knees reduces unwanted attention markedly, especially in rural areas and medinas.

A common concern, especially for women travellers, is street attention — comments, persistent vendors, the occasional unwanted approach. My honest advice is that it is usually more nuisance than threat, and the best tools are confidence and clarity: walk with purpose, avoid prolonged eye contact with strangers who call out, and respond to persistence with a firm, unsmiling "la, shukran" (no, thank you) rather than an apologetic giggle that can be misread as interest. Sunglasses, a destination in mind, and ignoring catcalls deflate most of it. A guide or a visible plan dramatically reduces hassle, which is one quiet reason many women prefer a structured trip here.

A few finer points from experience. In traditional homes, men and women may socialise or eat separately, and a host couple will guide you to the right space — follow it without overthinking. Be cautious about being alone in a private room with someone of the opposite sex you have just met, as it can be misconstrued in conservative settings. For men, treat Moroccan women with respect and reserve; do not be overly familiar. None of this should make you anxious — Moroccans are overwhelmingly warm and protective of guests. Read the room, mirror local behaviour, dress with respect, and the gender norms here become a non-issue rather than a worry.