Morocco Travel Guide for UAE Residents

Morocco is a beautiful country in North Africa. It offers a mix of old traditions and modern charm. For UAE residents, Morocco is an exciting and accessible destination. With its rich culture, stunning landscapes, and delicious food, a trip to Morocco promises an unforgettable experience. This Morocco travel guide will explore everything you need to know to plan your perfect Moroccan adventure from UAE.

1. Visa: UAE citizens and residents with foreign nationalities need a visa to enter Morocco. You can apply at the Moroccan Consulate in Dubai or Abu Dhabi. Get expert assistance from our team at Travnook for a Morocco visa. However, visa requirements are subject to change so it is advisable to check the latest visa requirements and application procedures before planning your trip to Morocco.
2. Flights: Direct flights from Dubai and Abu Dhabi to Casablanca and Marrakech are available.
3. Best Time to Visit: The best time to visit is from March to May and September to November when the weather is pleasant.

Marrakech in Morocco is a vibrant city known for its bustling medinas, colorful souks, and rich cultural heritage. Marrakech offers a sensory journey through its narrow alleyways and lively markets. The city’s architecture is characterized by red sandstone buildings adorned with intricate tile work and ornate carvings.

Best Things to Do in Marrakech:

• Explore the famous Jemaa el-Fnaa square.
• Visit the Koutoubia Mosque and Saadian Tombs.
• Wander through the colorful souks.
• Relax in the beautiful Majorelle Garden.

Casablanca, Morocco’s largest city, is a bustling metropolis known for its modernity and historic landmarks. While it lacks the traditional charm of some Moroccan cities, it boasts architectural marvels.

Best Things to Do in Casablanca:

• Visit the Hassan II Mosque, one of the largest mosques in the world.
• Stroll along the Corniche, a picturesque seaside promenade.
• Discover the modern side of Morocco in the city’s chic neighborhoods.

Fes offers UAE travelers a glimpse into Morocco’s rich cultural and historical heritage, providing an authentic and immersive experience. Fes is also famous for its traditional craftsmanship, including intricate ceramics and leather goods.

Best Things to Do in Fes:

• Explore the ancient Medina, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
• Visit the Al Quaraouiyine University, the oldest existing university.
• Discover the stunning Bou Inania Madrasa.

Known as the “Blue City”, Chefchaouen, nestled in the Rif Mountains of Morocco, is renowned for its striking blue-washed buildings that create a picturesque and serene atmosphere. It is a unique blend of stunning mountain scenery, a tranquil ambiance, and a glimpse into Moroccan culture through its distinctive architecture and welcoming community.

Best Things to Do in Chefchaouen:

• Wander through the blue-painted streets of this charming town.
• Enjoy panoramic views from the Spanish Mosque.
• Relax in the serene atmosphere of the Rif Mountains.

The Sahara Desert, spanning across North Africa including Morocco, is an iconic landscape of vast sand dunes, rocky plateaus, and ancient caravan routes. For UAE travelers, the Sahara Desert presents an unforgettable adventure into one of the world’s most awe-inspiring natural wonders, blending solitude, adventure, and cultural immersion in a unique desert environment.

Best Things to Do in the Sahara Desert:

• Take a camel trek into the dunes.
• Spend a night in a traditional desert camp.
• Experience the breathtaking sunrise and sunset over the desert.

1. Stay in a Riad: Experience traditional Moroccan hospitality by staying in a riad, a traditional house with an interior garden.
2. Hammam Experience: Enjoy a relaxing and rejuvenating hammam (Moroccan bath).
3. Cooking Class: Learn to cook traditional Moroccan dishes.
4. Attend a Festival: Participate in local festivals like the Fes Festival of World Sacred Music.

Moroccan dishes highlight Morocco’s culinary richness and cultural diversity, making them a must-try for UAE travelers seeking authentic flavors.

1. Tagine: A slow-cooked stew made with meat, vegetables, and spices.
2. Couscous: A staple dish made from steamed semolina grains.
3. Harira: A traditional soup made with tomatoes, lentils, and chickpeas.
4. Pastilla: A sweet and savory pastry filled with meat and almonds.
5. Mint Tea: A refreshing drink made with green tea and fresh mint leaves.

1. Hammams and spas: Experience traditional Moroccan baths and spa treatments, including massages with argan oil and clay masks, in cities like Marrakech and Fez.
2. Yoga retreats: Retreat to tranquil settings in the Atlas Mountains or along the coast for yoga sessions that blend relaxation with Moroccan scenery and culture.
3. Meditation centers: Find serenity in meditation and mindfulness practices offered in retreat centers and yoga studios, fostering inner peace amidst Morocco’s inspiring landscapes.

1. Souks: Explore bustling markets selling everything from spices and textiles to pottery and jewelry.
2. Best Markets: Souks of Marrakech’s Jemaa el-Fnaa and Fez’s Medina, the Quartier Habous is known for its artisan shops in Casablanca,.
3. Handicrafts: Discover unique handmade items like rugs, ceramics, and leather goods.
4. Argan Oil: Purchase high-quality argan oil, known for its numerous health benefits.

1. Currency: The Moroccan dirham (MAD) is the local currency. 1 Moroccan Dirham (MAD) is approximately equal to 0.39 United Arab Emirates Dirham (AED). ATMs are widely available.
2. Language: Arabic and Berber are the official languages, but French is widely spoken.
3. Dress Code: Dress modestly, especially when visiting religious sites.
4. Transportation: Taxis, buses, and trains are common modes of transportation. Renting a car is also an option.
5. Safety: Morocco is generally safe, but it’s always good to be cautious and aware of your surroundings.

Traveling from the UAE to Morocco offers a captivating blend of ancient wonders, diverse landscapes, and vibrant culture. Prepare with valid documents, pack for varied climates, and immerse yourself in Moroccan hospitality, from exploring historic cities to venturing into the Sahara Desert. Morocco promises a memorable journey filled with rich experiences and culinary delights, inviting UAE travelers to explore its timeless charm. Follow this guide to plan your perfect Moroccan adventure and create unforgettable memories. Contact us for travel and visa assistance with your Morocco trip.