In Moroccan culture, respect is a very important value and gestures of affection are numerous. But the most common gesture of respect and affection in Morocco consists in taking another person by the hand. Indeed, in the Kingdom, holding your elder by the hand is a way of proving your respect.
Contents
How can I be respectful in Morocco?
All you have to do is follow these five etiquette tips.
- Dress conservatively. Morocco is a Muslim country, and so modesty is important.
- Use your right hand. In Morocco, the left hand is reserved for bathroom hygiene and dirty chores.
- Take your shoes off.
- Don’t give praise.
- Use traditional sayings.
What is considered disrespectful in Morocco?
Gestures. If you need to beckon someone, don’t use your index finger to motion a person over, as this is considered very rude in Moroccan culture. Instead, place your palm downward and sweep the hand toward yourself.
How do Moroccans greet each other?
Traditionally, Moroccans typically greet with a handshake and sometimes two kisses (starting with the left cheek) but this only occurs when the two people greeting are of the same sex.All greetings, dining manners and other gestures should be done with your right hand.
What you should not do in Morocco?
Things That Tourists Should Never Do in Morocco, Ever
- Disrespect Islam.
- Disrespect the monarchy.
- Use your left hand to eat with.
- Walk around in beachwear (away from the beach)
- Expect everyone to speak English.
- Limit your stay to Marrakech.
- Expect Casablanca to be like the movie.
- Think fez hats come from the city of Fez.
What are the Moroccan values?
Moroccan Culture – Key Concepts and Values
Respect – Moroccans have a strong belief that you should always respect yourself, your elders and your superiors. Moroccans are considerate to everyone they meet and expect the same in return. Courtesy is extended to all and it is never acceptable to be rude.
Why can’t you use your left hand in Morocco?
Moroccans don’t eat with their left hands.
Left hands are considered the “dirty hand” as they are traditionally used for hygienic duties. When eating tajine, you will be given bread to dip into the middle dish.Note: It does make it easier for everyone to eat without bumping!
Are Moroccans polite?
Greetings — Moroccans are more formal in social situations than most Westerners. Queries about one’s marital status and children are considered polite, and greetings should always include queries as to the health and well-being of one’s family.
Can unmarried couples sleep together in Morocco?
It is against the law in Morocco for unmarried Moroccan couples to sleep together in the same room. This can sometimes impact non-Moroccans with accommodation imposing a blanket ban on unmarried couples sharing rooms at their own discretion.
What do Berbers say before eating?
Your Berber hosts will encourage you to drink many cups of tea! “In the name of God”★ bismillah This is always said before beginning a meal. It is an Arabic expression that is equivalent to a prayer before meals. If you want to say it before eating, you will really impress your hosts!
Sexual contact between unmarried people is prohibited, under Article 490 of the Moroccan penal code. And as such, it is technically illegal for unmarried couples to share a hotel room.
Is hugging in Morocco illegal?
Moroccans are very loving – in private. It’s very uncommon and frowned on to show a lot of affection in public. Holding hands in Morocco is fine. A hug here or there, a stolen kiss all fine in most situations.
Can unmarried couples kiss in public in Morocco?
Yes, there are. Morocco has laws relating to those things that are, “an act of aggression against Moroccan Muslim society and people” – kissing in public falls into this category. The prohibitions specifically relate to unmarried couples.However if one partner is Moroccan you may face additional scrutiny.
Are Morocco people nice?
Moroccan people are very hospitable and friendly.
Moroccan people are very known for their strong sense of hospitality and welcoming. They are very nice people. Moroccan people are tolerant, welcoming, and friendly to foreigners. They treat others very well, in responding to their tradition, values, and culture.
What is unique about Moroccan culture?
The culture of Morocco is a blend of ethnic tradition and religion, reflecting the Berber, African, Arabs, and Jewish influence.The Moroccan music is characterized by several traditional instruments mainly of the Arab and Amazigh origin. It is home to Andalusian classical music which is common throughout North Africa.
What makes Moroccan culture special?
Morocco’ official religion is Islam. The rhythm of life for Moroccans is dictated by religious celebrations throughout the year, such as Ramadan and Eid Al Adha. During these celebrations, most of them being public holidays, Moroccans focus on praying and spending time with their family.
Do they eat with their hands in Morocco?
The Moroccans eat three meals a day, the main meal being around mid-day. Eating with your hands is a time-honoured tradition. Rule number one: eat with your right hand only, using the thumb and first two fingers.The left hand may only be used for picking up bread or passing dishes on to other people.
Is thumbs up in Morocco offensive?
Never give the “thumbs up” gesture or gesture with your left hand. Wear modest clothing in public and COVER your body. Women should keep a scarf with them to enter mosques. If you receive lewd stares or children pelt your posterior with small pebbles, you’ll know you are too revealing.
How many wives can you have in Morocco?
Muslim men will still be able to marry up to four wives, but for the first time polygamous marriages will also need a judge’s authorization, in addition to the consent of the man’s current wives.
How should female tourists dress in Morocco?
A woman traveling to Morocco should wear long skirts and dresses, jeans or pants that cover the knees, draping tunics, polo shirts, and camisoles that can be worn under sweaters and cardigans. Women generally wear sandals or loafers; rarely do they wear heels.
Who speaks Berber?
Morocco
Berber languages are spoken today by some 14 million people, mostly in scattered enclaves found in the Maghrib, a large region of northern Africa between Egypt’s Siwa Oasis and Mauretania. The heaviest concentration of Berber speakers is found in Morocco.
