What Not To Wear in Marrakech: A Local’s Guide for 2024

Planning a trip to Marrakech and not sure what to pack? If so then check out this local guide on what not to wear in Marrakech.

I am a foreigner who lives in Morocco. So, I know firsthand about what you should not pack for a trip to Morocco.

You definitely don’t have to buy an entirely new Marrakech wardrobe. But, there are some things that you should not wear when visiting a conservative Muslim country even if it’s super hot out.

Yes, I have seen people wear just about everything, from mini skirts to crop tops to low-cut tank tops. Generally, speaking, no one will probably say anything.

It’s Marrakech. This place is filled with foreigners and locals in the Medina are super used to visitors walking around in shorts and tank tops.

However, if you wear something super revealing, as a woman, then you’ll get a lot of unwanted male attention. Yup, I have seen many a woman regret what they’re wearing because local men would not stop hitting on them.

I’m not saying it’s right, but I am saying that this is how it is in Morocco when you wear super tight, low cut clothing.

Additionally, Marrakech is located in and around a desert. So, the city has an extremely hot and dry climate that includes a ntense heat from the sun.

So, to keep cool and avoid sunburn, you may also want to avoid wearing certain things in Marrakech. Therefore, this expert guide will help you figure out the unofficial Marrakech dress code as you learn what to avoid in Marrakech.

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What Not to Wear in Marrakech: The Short Answer

Okay, if you’re looking for a quick answer on what not to wear in Marrakech then clothes to avoid include high heels, crop tops, low-cut tops, booty shorts, mini skirts, jeans, and anything super tight.

The only exception is when you go to a club in Marrakech since anything goes while you’re here. If you’re still unsure, have a look at what to wear in Morocco.

Anyway, this general rule is partly because wearing this type of clothing will elicit a lot of unwanted male attention, especially as a solo female traveler in Marrakech.

Trust me, Marrakech is safe. But, these Marrakech outfits invite a bunch of men to stare at you and harass you with unwanted comments.

I’m not saying this is right. However, this is how things are in Marrakech and you need to plan ahead and create a Marrakech packing list that will help you avoid this type of harassment. This way you can have a good time.

If anyone does harass you, just walk away. Do not engage with this type of behavior and they will usually leave you alone. It’s not dangerous, but it is annoying. At least, that was my experience when I solo traveled in Marrakech.

Jeans are also on the list because they are heavy and retain odors. They also take up a lot of room in your bag and won’t keep you cool when it is 45°C (113°F). Yup, Marrakech does get this hot in the summer.

I know this first hand and that’s why I do not think this is the best time to visit Marrakech. Plus, A/C inside most public buildings is very much not great.

Instead, try to wear light, loose-fitting linen clothes that will keep you cool, covered, and protected from the sun. You can also try getting a Kaftan upon arrival. These are actually great for walking around Marrakech and are very traditional.

They are light, long-sleeve dresses that come with a hood. So, they are lightweight, keep you protected from the sun, and you can use the hood to protect your face from the sun.

I would also wear comfy shoes that you don’t mind getting dirty. High heels are lovely but are just very impractical for walking around the Medina.

Local Tip: The exception to this rule is if you go clubbing in Marrakech. If you want to enjoy the Marrakech nightlife scene then wear whatever you want. Locals and tourists wear anything and everything to the best clubs in the city.

I would also keep an eye on dress codes. Many high-end restaurants and rooftop restaurants in Marrakech have a smart casual dress code and you need to dress accordingly. Also, don’t forget your Marrakech SIM card so you don’t get lost.

What Women Should Not Wear in Marrakech

1. Jeans

A common question I get is, “Can I wear jeans in Marrakech?” Yes, you absolutely can wear jeans in Marrakech and many people do. However, I would not recommend it.

Generally, I don’t bring jeans with me when I travel because they take up a lot of room in my suitcase and retain odors. I especially don’t recommend them for Marrakech since they won’t keep you cool when it is insanely hot out.

They are fine in the winter when daily highs hover around 23°C (73°F), but loose-fitting linen pants (or even leggings) are a better choice IMHO.

Alternative: Skip the jeans and pack loose-fitting linen pants instead. They will keep you cool and protected from the sun when you visit the best rooftop bars in Marrakech.

2. Shorts

So, I don’t 100% agree with this and think you absolutely can wear shorts in Marrakech. Just make sure they are NOT super short (I wouldn’t wear anything that sits higher than your mid-thigh) and you should be just fine.

Therefore, if you’re wondering, “Can you wear shorts in Marrakech?” then the answer is a yes since I wear them and my partner (who is Moroccan) wear them all the time.

Yes, every generic guidebook known to man will tell you not to wear anything above the knee (for women and men). But, it’s Marrakech.

This is a very cosmopolitan city that is filled with tourists and expats. So, locals are used to seeing foreigners in Western-style clothing.

Generally, the only reason I am not 100% into shorts is because of the sun. Wear shorts and you’ll have to worry about sunburn on your legs.

Therefore, if you want to wear something chic and stylish then try a light jumpsuit. They are an awesome option and still keep your skin safe from sunburn.

Alternative: Shorts are fine and they are not the worst thing to wear in Marrakech. However, a jumpsuit is a stylish alternative that is better for sun protection and when visiting the best bars in Marrakech.

3. High Heels

Walking around the Medina and the best souks in Marrakech can sometimes be kind of a nightmare.

The streets are narrow and packed with people. Store owners can sometimes be a bit too aggressive. The streets can be uneven and filled with animal excrement.

You also have to watch out for tuktuks, cars, donkeys, and motorbikes trying to squeeze their way through the teeny tiny streets of the Medina.

So, the last thing you want to do is to make your life more difficult by wearing high heels. They are lovely if you are dressing up and looking to enjoy the best things to do in Marrakech in the evening.

However, if you are spending two days in Marrakech and plan on walking around the Medina all day then you want to wear something comfy that you don’t mind getting dirty.

I generally wear HOKA sneakers but I also wear my Birkenstocks in the summer or a stylish pair of slip-on sneakers. Just make sure your shoes are comfortable. That is the most important thing.

Alternative: Depending on your outfit, you could wear comfy sneakers, casual Birkenstocks, or a nice pair of slip-on-sneakers. The key here is comfortable shoes you don’t mind getting dirty.

4. Crop Tops

Now that crop tops are very much back in fashion, I see a lot of women wearing them in Morocco.

I’ll be the first one to admit that the Marrakech dress code is very chill and that you can absolutely wear a tank top with shorts – as long as they are not short shorts and the tank top isn’t super low cut.

However, crop tops are really not appropriate. You will be showing way too much skin and will have to worry about sunburn in a lot of weird places.

A much better alternative is a linen tunic top. If you want, you can even make it a tan top. But. just remember that your bra straps should NOT be showing and that you should not have any cleavage showing.

Also remember that with tank tops, you will probably have to slather your arms in sunscreen so that you don’t have to worry about sunburn.

Alternative: Skip the crop top and opt for a linen tunic top instead. They can be very stylish, are loose-fitting, and can keep your cool during those hot days in Marrakech.

5. Swimwear (in the Medina)

Another question I get all the is, “Can I wear a bikini in Marrakech?” The short answer is, yes, you can wear a bikini in Marrakech. I would not wear a thong bikini but you can wear one to the pool inside your riad or hotel.

These spaces are designed for westerners and you can typically wear what you want here. However, one of the things you should not do in Marrakech is wear swimwear outside.

This is a big no-no and you will feel really uncomfortable really quickly. Just save the swimwear for the pool and dress more conservatively when walking around the Medina.

If you’re worried or concerned what you’re wearing is too revealing, pack a cardigan and just cover yourself with it if you being to feel uncomfortable.

Local Tip: There is no beach in Marrakech. The city has many pools but the nearest beach is in Essaouira. So, if you want to swim I would book a riad with a pool. However, most of these pools will be quite small and are really just plunge pools.

Alternative: There is no alternative. Swimsuits should be worn at the pool and at the hammam and that’s it. Wear clothes outside.

If you are concerned about wearing your swimsuit to the pool, bring a coverup or a sarong and use that if you start to feel uncomfortable.

6. Low Cut Tops

This is probably super obvious but you 100% should not wear low-cut tops or dresses or anything that gives you a ton of cleavage.

I promise you, if you have your boobs hanging out then you will start to feel uncomfortable real quick.

I have seen many women walking around in very risque outfits and 99.9% of them regretted that decision because they could not walk 3 meters without a local hitting on them.

When wearing tank tops, I would also make sure that your bra straps are not showing. Generally, people in Morocco and Marrakech do not walk around with their underwear hanging out.

I get how easy it is to forget about a bra strap but just be vigilant about it before leaving your Marrakech hotel.

Alternative: Try a nice maxi dress with a wide-brim hat. It’s stylish and will prevent sunburn.

7. Tight Clothes

I’ll be the first one to admit that I have worn tight biker shorts and leggings in Marrakech and it was not an issue.

That being said, I generally do not recommend wearing really tight clothes in Marrakech. First of all, they can draw unwanted attention. That didn’t happen in my case but I have seen it happen.

Secondly, they are terrible at keeping you cool. They just make you hot and sweaty and sticky. So, opt for some loose-fitting linen pants (or elephant harem pants) instead.

You can find them everywhere in the Medina. So, if you don’t have any and are looking for things to buy in Marrakech then these type of pants are a great option. Just be sure to haggle so you can get the best price possible.

Alternative: Skip the tight pants and clothes and opt for elephant pants or harem pants instead. They are much more practical.

8. Expensive Clothes

I typically don’t bring anything expensive with me when I travel for a number of reasons. This is mainly because I would be super sad if it got ruined, dirty, or stolen.

This is especially true in Marrakech since the streets are dirty, narrow, and packed with people. So, leave the Louis Vuitton bag at home since it will be hard to protect yourself from pickpockets on the packed streets of the Medina.

Instead, I like to use a theft-proof backpack and carry only what I need for the day with me. That being said, I have been to Marrakech many many times (I even lived there) and have never had an issue with theft.

I am sure it does happen and can happen. Also, maybe I am not a victim because I am very vigilant. But, I personally have always felt super safe in Marrakech and have never had any issues.

Alternative: Avoid carrying anything expensive and use a theft-proof backpack (I love Pacsafe) to carry/protect your valuables.

9. Crazy Patterns/Colors

I’m from NYC originally and it’s one of those magical places where you can wear whatever you want and NO ONE will look twice. I mean, they have a day where they do a naked subway ride, need I say more?

However, Marrakech is not that type of city. If you wear something funky or off-the-wall then people will 100% stare at you.

Now, that is totally fine since I personally don’t care what other people think. But, it makes you stand out and that could also make your a target for unsavory people. It also definitely could garner attention that you may or may not want.

So, if you want to blend in with the locals then I would try to wear more neutral colors and less vibrant patterns.

10. Strappy Tops

Again, I am putting tank tops and strappy tops on this list of what not to wear in Marrakech with a bit of caution.

Personally, I don’t see a problem with tank tops and I know many women who have worm them without issue.

What I would avoid is having your bra straps showing or a plunging neckline that results in a lot of cleavage. Yes, every generic guidebook will tell you not to have your shoulders exposed. But, I think the rule is a bit obsolete.

However, if you are at all concerned then pack a cardigan and bring it with you. If you start to feel uncomfortable, just put it on over your tank top and you should be fine.

The other thing you might want to be aware of with regards to tank tops is sun exposure. If you have your arms and shoulders totally exposed then this is another part of your body that you’ll have to cover with sunscreen.

It’s not a big deal but it can get a bit annoying to constantly have to reapply sunscreen every two hours.

Alternative: If you want to avoid tank tops and strappy tops then can opt for t-shirts or tunic tops instead. Anything light and flowy will keep you cool and protected from the sun.

What Men Should Not Wear in Marrakech

In general, I would advise men against wearing jeans or dress shoes that aren’t great for walking around the Medina. And you already know why I am not into jeans.

Like with women, I would avoid wearing anything expensive since the Medina isn’t the cleanest place on the planet and it can get dirty.

On the whole, guys can wear pretty much what they want. I would potentially avoid wearing shorts and tank tops as a man since they aren’t worn by locals. So, if you want to blend in I would stick to pants and t-shirts.

However, my partner is Moroccan and absolutely wears shorts. So, take what I say as a guideline rather than a steadfast rule.

Just be sure to wear neutral colors since wearing anything too crazy will also make you stick out since locals don’t rock crazy designs (think bright colors and vibrant patterns).

Marrakech Dress Code for Women

I’ve gone over what not to wear in Marrakech for women. Now, let’s go over how to dress in Marrakech and all of the things you should wear.

• Linen tunic tops with long-sleeves (a great alternative to tank tops)
• Long, loose-fitting, linen pants (much better than jeans and leggings)
• A nice jumpsuit that keeps your shoulders and knees covered
• A long maxi dress
• Sandals like Birkenstocks or sneakers like my HOKA
• Sweatshirt or Fleece (Nights in Marrakech can get cool and you will want something to keep you warm. This is especially true in the winter when Marrakech gets cold at night. In fact, you may want to bring a jacket.)

Marrakech Dress Code for Men

If you’re a man and you’re not sure what to wear in Marrakech, most of your clothes should be totally fine. Most Moroccan men do not wear shorts. So, I would stick with t-shirts and long, loose pants if you want to blend in and stay cool.

Be sure to pack plenty of comfy shoes and avoid wearing anything super flashy or super expensive.

Other Things to Add to Your Marrakech Packing List

I have a whole post on what to wear in Marrakech, so I am not going to go over all of that in detail again. However, here are som items that you might want to add to your Marrakech packing list.

Also, do not panic. Marrakech is a major city. So, if you forget anything then they will definitely have it there – if not in the Medina then definitely in Gueliz since it’s a bit more modern.

• Ear plugs (the streets in the Medina can be noisy at night and the call to prayer can be loud in the morning)
• Sunglasses (the sun is strong and harsh in Marrakech
• Sun hat
• Sunscreen
• Scarf (for additional protection from the sun)
• Extension Cord
• Power bank for your cellphone
• Linen pants
• t-shirts/tunic tops
• Jump suits
• Maxi dresses
• Sneakers/sandals/dress shoes for the evening
• Fleese/swetshirt/jacket for the evening (especially in winter)
• Toiletries
• Underwear/bras/socks
• Day bag (I like Pacsafe since it is anti-theft)
• Travel adapter

Local Tip: Everyone tells you to bring a scarf to “visit religious sites”. But, you will not need to cover your head in Marrakech. Non-muslims are NOT allowed in most mosques in Morocco.

I have only been inside the mosque in Casablanca (I did not need to cover my head) and the mosque in Meknes. In Meknes, they actually gave you a scarf.

So, please don’t buy a scarf to cover your head when entering a mosque. You don’t need it. You can bring one for the Sahara if you plan to go since you can use a long scarf to protect your face from the sand.

FAQs

Can You Wear Jeans in Marrakech?

You can wear jeans in Marrakech. I don’t advise it since jeans are big, bulky, won’t keep you cool, and retain odors.

However, if absolutely love jeans and need to have them then bring them. Many people in Marrakech wear jeans. so it’s totally fine. FYI, my boyfriend is Moroccan and wears them all the time. Just make sure they aren’t super tight.

Is There a Dress Code in Marrakech?

There is no dress code in Marrakech and you are free to wear whatever you want.

I suggest that you wear less revealing clothes that don’t show cleavage and that keep your knees/shoulders covered to protect you from the sun and to avoid unwanted attention.

This is mostly for women though and men can pretty much wear what they like.

Do You Need to Wear a Headress in Marrakech?

No, this is not required at all. My partner’s sister is Moroccan and does not wear a headdress. I have even visited mosques where a headdress was not required. So, feel free to have your hair out and don’t give it a second thought.

Can I Wear Flip Flops in Marrakech?

You can wear flip-flops in Marrakech but I wouldn’t recommend it. Your feet will get dirty and they are not great for walking around the uneven surfaces in the Medina.

They also don’t protect your feet and people can step on you in the narrow, crowded streets.

Can Females Wear shorts in Marrakech?

You can wear shorts in Morocco and Marrakech since there is no female dress code in the country. I have worn shorts and have had no problem, especially on the coast where more people wear them.

However, I prefer long linen pants since they keep you cool and protected from the sun.

That wraps up this guide on what to avoid wearing in Marrakech. I hope this post was helpful and you feel better about your upcoming trip to Marrakech.

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