The currency Morocco uses is the Moroccan dirham, shown as MAD or DH. Morocco restricts taking dirham banknotes across its borders, although travellers may carry up to 2,000 MAD. Foreign currency worth 100,000 MAD or more must be declared when entering or leaving Morocco.
The Moroccan dirham is the currency of Morocco and is used for everyday transactions. Once you know the basic rules of exchange and borders, it is easy to manage.
Visitors generally need some cash for small shops, markets, taxis and cafes. If you know Morocco’s currency rules before you arrive, you’ll avoid bad exchange rates and problems with leftover dirhams.
Trip Budgeting See our Morocco Travel Budget: How Much Does a Week in Morocco Really Cost? for more.
What currency does Morocco use and how does it work?
The official currency of Morocco is the Moroccan dirham and has the international currency code MAD. Prices in DH are also found in shops, restaurants and local markets.
The most important thing for tourists looking up currency Morocco is simple. Most everyday purchases in the country are made in Moroccan dirhams.
Notes and coins you will see
20, 50, 100 and 200 MAD notes are common bank notes. Coins are also heavily used for smaller purchases.
Coins and small denomination notes are useful for cafes, parking, local shops and tips. It also helps to have smaller notes when a seller cannot break a 200 MAD note.
Do prices use euros or dirhams?
Sometimes tourist businesses will quote euros, especially for accommodation or activities. But typically local prices are displayed and paid in dirhams on a daily basis.
When comparing a MAD price with a euro price, check the exchange rate before agreeing to pay.
Local tip: It’s better to have some 20 MAD and 50 MAD notes on you rather than just 100 MAD or 200 MAD notes.
Where should you exchange money in Morocco?
If you are converting foreign currency into Moroccan dirhams, use a bank or an authorized currency-exchange operator. Exchange rates vary so check the rate and any commission first.
This is especially helpful for tourists who are looking for currency Morocco exchange rates as the online reference rates might be different from the amount offered at a physical exchange counter.
What exchange rate should you expect?
There is no strict tourist exchange rate. The value of MAD compared to EUR , GBP and USD changes over time .
Bank Al-Maghrib publishes the reference foreign exchange rates. The reference figures may be different from the retail rate available at an exchange office or bank.
Check details of Bank Al-Maghrib.
Should you exchange all your cash at once?
No. Most visitors can use smaller amounts during their trip rather than converting their entire travel budget right away.
This means it's easier to spend your currency in Morocco and you won't have to carry as much cash.
Hold on to your exchange receipts. If you want to change unused dirhams into foreign currency before you leave, these might come in handy.
Local tip: Change only enough for your first one or two days, and then get more once you know your daily spending.
Should you use cash, cards or ATMs in Morocco?
Cash and cards. Mix it up. Larger hotels, restaurants and modern shops will tend to take cards but smaller businesses may prefer cash.
It’s a good idea to have some dirhams for Morocco payments even if your main travel card works internationally, as they come in handy for everyday currency.
When is cash useful?
Cash is convenient for small cafes, markets, parking, small taxis and low-value purchases. Most of your regular expenses are payable in smaller notes, around 200-500 MAD.
Don’t take more money than you want to spend. Keep a second payment method on file as a backup.
What should you check at an ATM?
Your home bank may charge a fee for international withdrawals. You may also be charged a separate fee by the Moroccan ATM, which will be displayed before you confirm the transaction.
If the ATM offers you the option of converting the withdrawal to your home currency, check the rate it shows you. Usually you can opt to have the transaction done in MAD instead.
For more detailed planning see the Morocco Travel Budget Guide: How Much Does Morocco Cost in 2026?.
Local tip: If you need assistance with a retained card, it’s always best to use ATMs attached to established bank branches if possible.
What are the currency Morocco closed-currency rules?
The main rule is that it is not possible to import or export the Moroccan Dirham freely in large quantities. This means that Morocco is running what travelers often call a closed-currency system.
The main thing to know about this currency Morocco restriction is that it applies to arriving with dirhams or leaving the country with unused cash.
How many dirhams can you take out of Morocco?
Under the current exchange rules, travelers entering or leaving Morocco are allowed to bring in or take out a maximum of 2,000 MAD in Moroccan banknotes.
Read the currency rule of Office des Changes.
What about foreign cash?
When entering or leaving Morocco, foreign currency of MAD 100,000 or more must be declared.
Visitors carrying much less than this usually do not have to make the same currency declaration.
Can you change leftover dirhams before departure?
Yes. Non-resident travelers may reconvert eligible leftover dirhams via banks or licensed exchange operators.
Keep your exchange receipts. It helps. Do not attempt the task until you have passed all airport departure controls.
Local tip: Hold onto all of your currency exchange receipts until you leave Morocco, especially if you plan on changing your unused dirhams.
Common mistakes to avoid
Avoid these common mistakes with Moroccan currency:
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Importing lots of MAD from abroad: get most of the dirhams when you arrive instead.
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Discarding exchange receipts: keep them until departure.
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Say yes to every ATM conversion. Check the offered exchange rate before you confirm.
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Only carry 200 MAD notes. Keep 20 MAD and 50 MAD notes for small payments.
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Too many dirhams when you leave: Change larger remaining amounts before you leave.
Easier option: Car rental with clear payment terms
For a self-drive trip, clear payment terms are as vital as exchange rates. MarHire offers travelers the chance to review rental conditions before collection, plus local support and 24/7 WhatsApp assistance.
Compare hire car prices in Morocco Check payment, deposit and pickup conditions before you travel
FAQ: Moroccan Dirham and Currency Rules
Can I buy Moroccan dirhams before travelling to Morocco?
No, not without limits. The dirham is a restricted currency, and travellers may import no more than 2,000 MAD in banknotes. Most tourists should obtain the majority of their dirhams after arrival through banks, ATMs or authorised exchange operators.
Can I use euros in Morocco?
Yes, some tourist businesses may accept euros, but you should not depend on this. Morocco's normal currency is MAD, and paying in dirhams usually makes the price easier to understand. Keep local cash available for smaller purchases.
How much Moroccan currency can I take out of Morocco?
2,000 MAD is the maximum amount of Moroccan banknotes travellers may carry when leaving Morocco under the 2026 exchange rules. If you have more, convert the excess before departure and keep your original exchange documentation.
Is it better to use cash or card in Morocco?
Yes, use both rather than relying on one method. Cards work at many hotels and larger businesses, while cash remains useful for smaller purchases. Keep some MAD available and use bank ATMs for additional withdrawals when needed.
Our recommendation
Budget travelers should change money little by little. First time visitors should bring cash and a backup card. Families should have small notes for daily expenses. Self-drive travelers are advised to check payment and deposit terms for rental prior to pick-up.
MarHire’s Morocco car rental service lets you compare payment terms for road trips.
