Thinking of traveling during Ramadan in Morocco? Many visitors worry that the holy month will make their trip harder. In fact, it can be one of the most memorable times to visit. The days are calm, and the evenings are full of food, music and family life. This guide explains what changes during Ramadan, how to show respect and how to plan your trip.
When Is Ramadan in Morocco in 2027?
Ramadan follows the lunar calendar, so it moves about 11 days earlier each year. According to astronomers quoted by The National, Ramadan 2027 is expected to begin around 8 February. However, Morocco confirms the start by sighting the new moon, so the first day may come one day later. Eid al-Fitr, the holiday at the end of the month, should fall around 9 or 10 March 2027.
What Changes During Ramadan in Morocco
From dawn to sunset, Muslims do not eat, drink or smoke. As a result, daily life follows a different rhythm. Here is what you will notice as a traveler.
- Mornings start later, and many shops open around mid-morning.
- Afternoons are quiet, and some cafés and small restaurants close until sunset.
- Just before sunset, the streets empty as families go home to eat.
- After the meal, the cities wake up again, and the streets stay busy late into the night.
- Offices and banks often work shorter hours.
Tourist sites, such as the El Badi Palace and the main sights of Marrakech, usually stay open. However, opening hours can be shorter, so check before you go. Hotels and riads serve breakfast and meals to guests as normal.
Iftar: The Best Part of Ramadan in Morocco
At sunset, the call to prayer marks the end of the fast. Families then share iftar, the meal that breaks it. In Morocco, iftar is a feast of familiar dishes.
- Harira, a rich tomato soup with lentils and chickpeas.
- Dates and milk, the traditional way to break the fast.
- Chebakia, flower-shaped cookies fried and dipped in honey and sesame.
- Msemen and other flat breads, with butter and honey.
- Boiled eggs, juices and, of course, mint tea.
Many riads and restaurants serve a special iftar menu for guests. If a Moroccan family invites you to break the fast, accept. It is a true honor. Our Moroccan food guide explains more dishes to try.
Etiquette During Ramadan in Morocco
Non-Muslim visitors do not have to fast. Still, a little respect goes a long way during Ramadan in Morocco. Our full guide to Moroccan etiquette covers everyday customs, and these tips matter most this month.
- Avoid eating, drinking or smoking in the street during the day.
- Eat in your hotel, your riad or a restaurant that is open.
- Dress a little more modestly than usual, especially near mosques.
- Be patient in the late afternoon, when people are tired and hungry.
- Expect alcohol to be harder to find, as many shops stop selling it.
Keep water in your bag and drink when you are out of sight, for example in your car or your room. For the right clothes, read what to wear in Morocco for women.
Evenings During Ramadan in Morocco
After iftar, the cities come alive. Families walk in the squares, children play and the cafés fill up. In Marrakech, Jemaa el Fna is lively late into the night. In addition, mosques are full for the special night prayers, and you can hear the recitation from the street.
The 27th night of the month, Laylat al-Qadr, is especially important. Mosques are crowded, and many families gather. Non-Muslims cannot enter most mosques, but the Hassan II Mosque in Casablanca welcomes visitors on guided tours outside prayer times. Check visiting hours before you go, as they can change during Ramadan.
Eid al-Fitr: The Big Celebration
Eid al-Fitr marks the end of the fast. Families dress in new clothes, visit relatives and share sweets. It is a public holiday, so many shops and offices close for one or two days. Therefore, plan train tickets and transfers early if you travel during Eid.
Touring the Country with Us
Ramadan in Morocco is a good time for a private tour. The roads are calmer during the day, and the desert stays peaceful. Our driver-guides plan meal stops at places that are open, so you can eat as usual. At the desert camp, dinner and breakfast are served to guests as normal. Read about a night in a Sahara desert camp and the desert camp meals.
February and March are also mild months in most of Morocco. For the weather, read Morocco in winter and our month by month guide. Popular trips include the 3-day Marrakech to the Sahara tour and the 7-day imperial cities and Sahara tour.
Plan Your Trip with Us
Send us a message on WhatsApp at +212 609 490 681 or use the contact page. Tell us your dates, and we will tell you if they fall during Ramadan or Eid. After that, we will send you a plan and a price.
Traveling during Ramadan? Ask us anything.
Message us on WhatsAppRamadan in Morocco: FAQ
Is it a good idea to visit Morocco during Ramadan?
Yes. The days are calm, and the evenings are festive. Just expect some shorter opening hours.
Can tourists eat during Ramadan in Morocco?
Yes. Tourists can eat in hotels, riads and open restaurants. However, avoid eating in the street during the day.
When is Ramadan 2027 in Morocco?
It is expected to start around 8 February 2027 and end around 9 or 10 March 2027, depending on the moon sighting.
Are tourist sites open?
Most are open, but hours can be shorter. Check before you visit.
Do tours run during Ramadan in Morocco?
Yes. Our private tours run as usual, and your driver-guide plans meal stops for you.
Navigate Morocco is a team from the Sahara desert who work as a family, as our ancestors did. We will be glad to help you plan your trip during Ramadan.
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