Tipping in Morocco
Tipping - the pourboire - is part of everyday life in Morocco. Amounts are small, but they matter: wages in services are low and tips are counted on. The good news: a few dirham coins go a long way, and nobody expects American-style 20%. Here is who to tip and how much, in 2026 dirhams.
The Quick Reference Table
| Situation | Suggested tip |
|---|---|
| Cafe | 1 - 2 Dhs, or round up |
| Casual restaurant | 5 - 10 Dhs |
| Nice restaurant | 5 - 10% of the bill if service is not included |
| Petit taxi | Round up to the next dirham or two - see taxis in Morocco |
| Riad / hotel housekeeping | 20 - 50 Dhs per day, left at the end of the stay |
| Porter / bellboy | 10 - 20 Dhs per bag |
| City guide (private, full day) | 100 - 200 Dhs per person |
| Group tour guide | 30 - 50 Dhs per person |
| Private driver (full day) | 50 - 100 Dhs |
| Hammam attendant | 20 - 50 Dhs after a scrub |
| Parking guardian (gilet) | 2 - 5 Dhs daytime, 10 - 20 Dhs overnight |
| Restroom attendant | 1 - 2 Dhs |
The Moroccan Specialties
- Parking guardians: the men in fluorescent vests watching parked cars are a real institution - the small coin is expected, not optional, and buys genuine peace of mind.
- Jemaa el-Fna performers: taking a photo of musicians, water sellers or snake charmers = a tip is expected (10 - 20 Dhs). Agree before shooting to avoid discussions.
- Unofficial "guides": someone who insists on showing you the way in the medina will expect payment. A firm, smiling "la, choukran" (no, thank you) works; if you do accept help, 5 - 10 Dhs is plenty.
- Gas station attendants: service is always full-service; 2 - 5 Dhs for a fill-up and windshield wash is appreciated, especially on road trips - see renting a car in Morocco.
Practical Advice
- Always tip in dirhams, in cash. Foreign coins cannot be exchanged and are useless to the recipient - about the currency, read our dirham guide.
- Hoard small change: 1, 2, 5 and 10 dirham coins are gold. Break big notes at supermarkets and gas stations whenever you can.
- Check the bill first: some tourist restaurants already add service; no need to tip twice.
- Budget: for a one-week trip for two, 300 - 500 Dhs total covers all tipping comfortably - a modest line in your Morocco budget.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is tipping mandatory in Morocco?
No - it is always discretionary, and no one will chase you for it. But in a country where service wages are low, small tips are a warmly appreciated norm rather than an extra.
Can I tip in euros or dollars?
Notes are accepted (never coins), but dirhams are always preferred: exchanging small foreign notes costs the recipient time and fees.
Should I tip riad staff?
Yes - riads are small teams who cook, clean and carry your bags. An envelope of 100 - 200 Dhs left at checkout for 3 - 4 nights, to share among the staff, is a classy gesture.
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