Planning what to wear in Morocco as a women traveler can feel confusing at first, especially if you’re visiting for the first time. The good news? Morocco is modern, diverse, and far more flexible than many expect — but understanding cultural norms will help you feel confident, comfortable, and respectful while exploring the country.
This guide breaks down exactly what women should wear in Morocco, including outfits for cities, rural areas, mosques, the Sahara, beaches, and more. You’ll also find safety-focused clothing tips and an important internal link to Morocco safety tips for female travelers to help you prepare fully.
Do Women Need to Dress Modestly in Morocco?
Morocco is a Muslim country, but it is also:
- Modern
- Tourist-friendly
- Fashion-flexible
- Influenced by European style
Women do not need to cover their hair, arms, or legs completely.
However, dressing respectfully modest is appreciated, especially in:
- Old medinas
- Rural villages
- Religious or traditional areas
General Rule:
Cover shoulders, avoid short shorts, and choose breathable fabrics.
This isn’t about restrictions — it’s about blending in and feeling comfortable.
What Women Commonly Wear in Morocco (Realistic & Practical)
Moroccan women themselves wear a mix of:
- Jeans
- Blouses
- Long dresses
- Maxi skirts
- Tunics
- Kaftans
- Light scarves (optional)
As a tourist, you can wear the same items comfortably.
The ideal fabrics:
- Linen
- Cotton
- Rayon
- Loose-flowing breathable materials
These keep you cool, reduce sun exposure, and respect local culture.
Best Clothing for Female Travelers in Moroccan Cities
Cities like Marrakech, Casablanca, Rabat, Tangier, and Agadir are very modern.
✔ Recommended Outfits
- Maxi or midi dresses
- Jumpsuits
- Jeans with a blouse or T-shirt
- Loose trousers and tank tops (with a light scarf if needed)
- A lightweight cardigan for extra modesty
❌ Avoid
- Extremely short shorts
- Very tight mini-skirts
- Transparent clothing
You can technically wear these, but you will draw unnecessary attention.
What to Wear in Rural Areas & Traditional Villages
In the Atlas Mountains, Berber villages, and countryside towns, dress slightly more modestly.
✔ Recommended
- Long skirts or loose pants
- T-shirts or blouses with sleeves
- Light scarves
- Comfortable sandals or sneakers
Why modest clothing matters more here:
- Rural communities are more conservative
- Locals appreciate respectful attire
- You’ll feel more comfortable blending in
What to Wear in the Sahara (Merzouga, Erg Chebbi)
The desert requires very specific clothing.
✔ Daytime Outfit
- Loose long pants
- Breathable long-sleeve shirt
- Large scarf or cheche for sun and sand
- Sunglasses
- Wide hat
✔ Nighttime Outfit
- Warm sweater (desert nights get cold!)
- Leggings or joggers
- Socks + trainers
If you’re booking a desert tour, such as the
👉 Merzouga Sahara Tour 3 Days
your guides will help you tie traditional desert scarves.
Beachwear for Women in Morocco
Morocco’s beaches are relaxed, especially in:
- Agadir
- Essaouira
- Tangier
✔ Allowed
- Bikinis
- One-piece swimsuits
- Beach cover-ups
❌ Not recommended
- Topless sunbathing (illegal)
- Thong bikinis in traditional beach towns
At hotels and resorts, swimwear is completely acceptable.
If you’re visiting Essaouira:
👉 Essaouira Full Day Trip
What to Wear When Visiting Mosques
Most mosques in Morocco do not allow non-Muslims inside, with one major exception:
✔ Hassan II Mosque (Casablanca)
Women must:
- Cover shoulders
- Wear knee-length or longer clothing
- Avoid revealing outfits
A long skirt, jeans, or maxi dress is perfect.
Should Women Wear a Hijab in Morocco?
No — wearing a hijab is not required.
Many tourists choose to:
- Wear a scarf in the desert
- Use a light shawl for sun protection
- Cover shoulders for modesty
But there is no obligation to cover your hair anywhere.
What Shoes Should Women Wear in Morocco?
✔ Best Options
- Comfortable walking sneakers
- Sandals with good support
- Closed shoes in medinas (uneven stone paths)
❌ Avoid
- High heels
- Thin flip-flops for long walking days
Clothing That Helps With Safety & Comfort
Clothing can reduce unwanted attention and increase confidence.
✔ Safety-Recommended Clothing
- Loose-fitting tops instead of tight tank tops
- Longer dresses instead of mini-skirts
- Light scarf to cover shoulders when needed
- Cross-body bag (anti-theft recommended)
For more safety-focused guidance, see our complete guide on
👉 Morocco safety tips for female travelers
Seasonal Clothing Guide for Morocco
Spring (March–May)
- Light dresses
- Cardigans
- Jeans
- Sneakers
Summer (June–August)
- Loose cotton pants
- Kaftans
- Light scarves
- Maxi dresses
Avoid synthetic fabrics — the heat can be intense.
Autumn (September–November)
- Layered outfits
- Shawls
- Dresses with leggings
Winter (December–February)
- Warm jacket
- Sweaters
- Boots
- Especially in Fes, Chefchaouen, and Atlas Mountains
What NOT to Wear in Morocco
These won’t get you in trouble, but they may make you uncomfortable:
❌ Very short shorts
❌ Strapless tops in old medinas
❌ Transparent clothing
❌ Very low-cut shirts
❌ Clothing with offensive graphics
Moroccans are polite — but modest clothing avoids unwanted stares.
Final Advice: Dress for Comfort, Confidence, and Culture
Morocco does not require strict clothing rules.
You don’t need long sleeves everywhere, and you don’t need to cover your hair.
The real goal is to:
- Stay comfortable
- Respect local culture
- Blend in where appropriate
- Dress practically for heat, wind, and walking
For deeper security tips tailored to women, read:
👉 Morocco safety tips for female travelers
If you need help planning a safe, comfortable itinerary, explore:
👉 GoMoroccoTour.com
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