Is Visiting Morocco Safe For Lgbt People?

Morocco is a popular destination for LGBTQ+ travelers, but its rights are limited due to the country’s Islamic nature. Homosexual acts are illegal and punishable by up to three years in prison. While locals are more strictly enforced, tourists are not exempt from these restrictions. As an LGBT traveler, it is essential to be aware of the experiences and challenges faced by LGBTQ+ travelers in Morocco.

Despite being an Islamic country, Morocco has made progress in LGBTQ+ rights, making it one of the safest countries in Africa for LGBTQ+ travelers. However, it is essential to exercise caution and be aware of local customs and laws. Larger cities like Marrakech and Casablanca offer a blend of caution and cultural awareness for LGBTQ+ travelers.

Gay Morocco is technically illegal, but practice is accepted enough in cities that there are gay nightclubs and well-known hotspots. LGBTQIA+ travelers should exercise caution and avoid engaging in even mild public displays of affection such as hand-holding. Same-sex marriage is legal in Spain, but homosexuality is illegal in Morocco and punishable by fines, imprisonment, and technically execution.

To ensure safety, LGBTQIA+ travelers should avoid engaging in mild public displays of affection such as hand-holding and avoid pushing their sexuality on others. As long as they don’t try to push their sexuality on others, they should not face any issues while traveling in Morocco.

Is Morocco LGBT friendly?

Same-sex sexual activity is illegal in Morocco, with both male and female forms being punished with imprisonment and a fine of 1, 200 dirhams. The Moroccan government uses the law to police members of the LGBT+ community, with their names publicized before a trial. The legal status of LGBT people in Morocco is largely based on traditional Islamic morality, which views homosexuality and cross-dressing as signs of immorality. In 2016, two girls were arrested in Marrakesh after one’s cousin took a photo of them kissing, sparking international outcry and the hashtag #freethegirls.

Their case was postponed until December 2016, and in early December 2016, the two girls were acquitted. The Moroccan government’s disproportionate targeting of perceived LGBT people and negative attitudes towards the wider LGBT community contribute to the country’s ongoing struggle for equality.

Is Marrakech safe for interracial couples?

The speaker, who experienced similar issues three years ago, assures that tourists should not worry, as only issues may arise if one of them is from Morocco.

Is the US friendly with Morocco?

Morocco and the United States have a long history of diplomatic relations dating back to the American Revolutionary War (1775-1783). Morocco is one of America’s oldest and closest allies in North Africa, known for its zero-tolerance policy towards Al-Qaeda and their affiliated groups. During President George W. Bush’s administration, Morocco assisted the U. S. Central Intelligence Agency in questioning Al-Qaeda members captured in Afghanistan, Iraq, and other countries.

The formal U. S. diplomatic relations with Morocco began in 1787 with the ratification of a Treaty of Peace and Friendship. This treaty, renegotiated in 1836, is still in force, constituting the longest unbroken treaty relationship in U. S. history. Tangier, Morocco’s oldest diplomatic property, is now a museum and the only building outside the U. S. that is now a National Historic Landmark.

Can you drink alcohol in Morocco?

Alcohol is allowed in Morocco, but not everywhere. Major cities like Marrakech, Casablanca, and Agadir have bars, hotels, and restaurants serving a variety of wines from around the world. However, it is important to respect regional traditions and cultural sensitivity. Morocco’s alcohol history is intricate and complex, influenced by its historical and cultural environment, including its predominant religion, Islam. The country has been shaped by various civilizations, including the Romans, Phoenicians, and Arabs, who brought wine and other alcoholic beverages to the region.

Tea is the national drink in Morocco, and alcohol is often connected with social events, especially among non-Muslim groups and foreigners. Alcohol consumption on special holidays and festivals is not unusual among Moroccan Jews, Christians, and foreign residents. In moderation, alcohol may be consumed during traditional occasions, such as weddings. Despite the religious restrictions, alcohol remains a part of Moroccan culture, especially in urban and tourist areas.

What to wear in Morocco as a woman?

A quick checklist for women to pack for a vacation is to include loose tunics, a light cardigan, jeans, a long skirt, comfortable shoes, a jacket, tank tops for layering, and a hat. Packing can be challenging, especially when traveling to a conservative culture. It’s essential to know what you need and what is culturally appropriate, as it can be overwhelming to decide what to keep or leave. Travelers often find themselves in situations where they realize they didn’t bring the right things or wonder why they brought so much.

Can tourists kiss in Morocco?

In Moroccan culture, public displays of affection are considered inappropriate and should be kept private. Respect for local customs is crucial when visiting religious sites, such as mosques. Adherence to dress codes and guidelines is essential, and shoes should be avoided inside. Alcohol consumption in public is also strictly prohibited, as Morocco is a predominantly Muslim country with conservative attitudes. It is important to consume responsibly and avoid public intoxication.

Do female tourists have to wear hijab in Morocco?

Morocco does not enforce or prohibit the headscarf, but it is more common in northern regions, small cities, and rural areas. Wearing a hijab is considered a religious decision, and it is strongly forbidden in Morocco’s military and police. In 2017, Morocco banned the manufacturing, marketing, and sale of the Afghan burqa, but not other types of niqab. Under the Socialist Siad Barre regime (1969-1991), women were free to dress as they wished, and most urban women did not wear a hijab. However, after the Somali Civil War in 1991, most women in Mogadishu started wearing a hijab for the first time, and those who did not were harassed.

Can a woman wear shorts in Morocco?

Moroccan culture allows for pants and skirts for women, with the younger generation often wearing skinny jeans. Shorts are not recommended, and shortest pants should be mid-calf or capri length. Maxi dresses and maxi skirts are popular for keeping cool, but bare shoulders may require a scarf for modesty and sun protection. Comfortable pants are essential for hiking or camel riding. For summer, pack at least one long light skirt, flowy pants, baggy pants, or capri pants.

Moroccan men dress sharper than Westerners, with T-shirts being acceptable, but polos or button-ups may feel more fitting. They rarely wear sleeveless shirts. For men, it is recommended to pack comfortable pants for hiking or camel riding.

Is it safe for US citizens to travel to Morocco?

Morocco is generally considered safe for travelers, with a “Level 2” safety advisory from the U. S. State Department. However, there are varying risk factors to consider, such as terrorism and petty crime. Morocco’s vibrant culture, stunning landscapes, and historic cities like Fez, Casablanca, Tangier, and Marrakech make it a popular destination. Global Guardian analysts suggest that Morocco offers good security services and the government prioritizes tourist safety.

Petty theft is the most common issue, but terrorism and kidnapping are less frequent concerns. Women travelers may need to take specific precautions during their travels. Overall, Morocco offers a vibrant and safe destination for both business and leisure travelers.

Can two men share a hotel room in Morocco?

Foreign men and women are not allowed to share in Morocco, even if they are locals and foreigners. Two foreigners sharing in five different kasbahs/riads would not be commented on, as experienced by a male partner in southern Morocco.

When not to travel to Morocco?

Morocco’s desert region is best visited in spring or autumn, as the weather is warm and pleasant, unlike the cold winters and scorching summers. The hottest months are July and August, but they should not be ruled out. The coastal regions can be visited year-round, with mild winters and mid-20°C summer temperatures. The best time to visit Morocco is between mid-March to May and September to October, as the region is not ideal for tourists due to the influx of insects and snakes.