is it safe to visit right now?
Morocco is a great choice for a short-haul holiday. It’s just three hours’ flight away from the UK, and there’s only an hour’s time difference. You’ll find rich culture in cities like Rabat, and water-based adventures in coastal cities like Essaouira. Hiking in the Atlas mountains around Marrakesh is also back after the earthquakes there in 2023.
Some travellers may have been concerned about how conflict in the Middle East has affected this Muslim country, despite its distance from Israel. Those fears should be alleviated now that Israel has agreed to a ceasefire with both Hamas and Hezbollah. But there are other safety concerns to bear in mind when visiting Morocco. Here’s what you need to know.
What’s the latest government advice about travelling to Morocco?
A visitor takes a selfie at the Bahia Palace in Marrakesh
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The Foreign Office does not currently advise against travelling to any part of Morocco, and it has not updated its advice since Israel agreed to a ceasefire with Hezbollah in November 2024, and with Hamas in January 2025.
More generally, it states that terrorists are very likely to try to carry out attacks in Morocco. In particular, there is an increased threat linked to the number of Moroccans sympathetic or belonging to Islamic State and other extremist groups.
The places highlighted as being at heightened risk include crowded areas, government buildings, transport networks, businesses with western interests, and areas where foreign nationals and tourists are known to gather. You should stay vigilant and follow the advice of local authorities, the Foreign Office advises.
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Has Morocco been affected by the conflict in the Middle East?
Geographically, Morocco is very far from Israel — further even than some parts of the UK — so it has not been affected by either the Israel-Hamas conflict or by the fighting between Israel and Hezbollah.
There is significant support for Palestinians within the country and rallies have taken place in the capital Rabat. The Foreign Office advises that visitors avoid any kind of political protests.
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Is it safe to travel to Morocco right now?
Street life in the imperial city of Meknes
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While the Foreign Office does not currently advise against travelling to any part of Morocco there are some general safety considerations to bear in mind.
Petty crimes such as pickpocketing, bag snatching and drive-by motorcycle theft are common in Morocco, particularly in tourist areas such as historic quarters and beaches.
There have also been occasional reports of violent crime where weapons such as knives have been used against tourists in street attacks and burglaries. The Foreign Office advises avoiding quiet areas after dark and not carrying large amounts of cash or valuables with you.
You should also watch out for scams, which are common. These can include credit card fraud as well as bogus tour guides offering their services.
What are Morocco’s entry requirements?
British passport holders do not need a visa to enter Morocco for tourism and they can stay for up to 90 days. To stay for longer than 90 days, request an extension at a local police station.
Your passport should be valid for at least three months after the day you enter Morocco. It should not be damaged, otherwise you may be refused entry. You should also make sure your passport is stamped on entry, or you may experience difficulties leaving.
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Is Morocco safe for female travellers?
A visitor at a night market stall in Djemaa el-Fna, the main square in Marrakesh
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Morocco is generally considered safe for female travellers, especially in holiday resorts. However, if you’re travelling alone, you may receive unwanted attention from men. The Foreign Office advises wearing loose-fitting clothing that covers the arms, legs and chest.
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Is Morocco safe for LGBT travellers?
Homosexuality is illegal in Morocco, although the country remains a popular destination for LGBT travellers. The Foreign Office advises against public displays of affection, which may cause offence and lead to prosecution.
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