What should I wear in Morocco as a woman or in general?

Morocco is a Muslim-majority country, and while it is far more relaxed than the Gulf states, dressing modestly is the single easiest way to show respect, blend in, and reduce unwanted attention. For both men and women, the practical rule of thumb is to cover shoulders and knees in towns, cities and rural areas. Nobody will stop you if you do not, but you will feel more comfortable and welcome if you do.

For women, loose-fitting clothes work best in every sense — culturally and in the heat. Think linen or cotton trousers, maxi skirts and dresses, light long-sleeved tops, and breathable fabrics that keep you cool while covering up. You do not need to cover your hair as a tourist; a headscarf is only expected when entering a working mosque (and most mosques in Morocco are closed to non-Muslims anyway, the Hassan II Mosque in Casablanca being a notable exception). A scarf in your bag is invaluable for sun, dust, chilly desert evenings, and modesty when needed.

For men, lightweight trousers or longer shorts and t-shirts are fine in most settings. Very short shorts and going shirtless away from the beach or pool reads as disrespectful, so save those for resort areas. In the desert and mountains, pack layers — days are hot but nights and high altitudes get genuinely cold.

Context flexes the rules. Beach resorts like Agadir, hotel pools, and private riad terraces are relaxed, and swimwear is normal there. Conversely, smaller towns, the Rif and Atlas villages, and anywhere off the tourist trail are more conservative, so cover up more there. Footwear should be comfortable and closed — medina lanes are uneven and not always clean.

Above all, dressing thoughtfully is not about restriction; it is a small courtesy that opens doors. Locals notice and appreciate the respect, and you will often find conversations warmer and hospitality more generous as a result.