What Currency Does Morocco Use?
Quick answer
Morocco uses the Moroccan dirham (MAD), divided into 100 centimes. It’s a “closed” currency, so you generally can’t buy it before you travel — withdraw it from ATMs on arrival or exchange cash in Morocco. Day-to-day life is largely cash-based, so always carry dirham.
Knowing the currency basics saves confusion on arrival — especially Morocco’s quirk of being a closed currency you can only really get once you’re there. Here’s the essential rundown.
It’s simple once you know the rules.
The dirham
The currency is the Moroccan dirham, abbreviated MAD and often written “DH” or “Dhs” locally. One dirham divides into 100 centimes, though you may also hear prices quoted in “rials” in some markets (an informal local counting system — when in doubt, confirm the price in dirham). Notes come in 20, 50, 100 and 200 MAD; coins in various dirham and centime denominations.
Keep a supply of small notes (20s and 50s) and coins for taxis, tips and small purchases, as vendors often lack change for a 200.
A closed currency
The dirham is a closed (restricted) currency, meaning it’s not freely traded internationally — so you generally can’t buy it at home before your trip, and there are limits on taking it out of the country. The practical upshot: get your dirham in Morocco.
Withdraw from ATMs on arrival (airports have them), or exchange euros, dollars or pounds at banks and bureaux de change. Don’t over-withdraw at the end, since converting dirham back is awkward.
Cash, cards and tips
Morocco is still largely a cash economy: cards work in hotels, bigger restaurants, supermarkets and tour operators, but taxis, souks, street food, tips and rural areas are cash-only. Carry daily dirham plus a card. At ATMs and card terminals, always choose to be charged in dirham (decline conversion to your home currency) to avoid poor rates.
Expect a small local ATM fee (often ~20–40 MAD) plus your bank’s fees, so withdraw larger amounts less often. Tell your bank you’re travelling to avoid card blocks.
Key takeaways
- Currency: Moroccan dirham (MAD), 100 centimes; notes 20–200.
- It’s a closed currency — get it in Morocco, not in advance.
- Withdraw from ATMs on arrival; keep small notes for change.
- Cash-heavy economy; choose dirham at ATMs/terminals to avoid bad rates.
Frequently asked questions
What money is used in Morocco?
The Moroccan dirham (MAD), divided into 100 centimes. Notes are 20, 50, 100 and 200 MAD. It’s a cash-heavy economy, so always carry dirham.
Can I buy Moroccan dirham before I travel?
Generally no — the dirham is a closed currency. Withdraw it from ATMs on arrival or exchange euros, dollars or pounds at banks and bureaux de change in Morocco.
Can you use euros or dollars in Morocco?
Only sometimes, for big tourist payments and at poor rates. For everyday spending you need dirham — get it from ATMs or exchanges on arrival.
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