The Moroccan dirham (code MAD, written DH) is the only currency you will need on the ground in Morocco, and it is issued by the central bank, Bank Al-Maghrib. This guide explains the notes and coins you will handle, how the exchange rate is managed and a few practical habits that make paying for taxis, cafés and souk shopping easier.
Moroccan dirham: notes and coins
One dirham is divided into 100 santimat. Day to day, however, almost every price is quoted in whole dirhams, so the small subunits matter very little to visitors.
- Banknotes: 20, 50, 100 and 200 dirhams.
- Coins: half a dirham, 1, 2, 5 and 10 dirhams.
- Santimat coins: the 1, 5, 10 and 20 santimat coins are rarely used.
- International code: MAD, numeric code 504.
How the dirham exchange rate works
The dirham is not traded freely on world markets. Its value is linked to a basket of currencies made up of 60% euro and 40% US dollar, a weighting set in 2015 after an earlier split of 80% euro and 20% dollar. The rate is allowed to move within a band of plus or minus 5% around a central rate set by the central bank.
For travellers, the euro link is the practical point: the dirham tends to move less against the euro than a freely floating currency would, though it will still shift with the dollar. Always check the current rate on the day you exchange money, because it changes.
Practical money tips for visitors
Because the dirham is not freely convertible abroad, it is simplest to exchange only what you expect to need and to do so inside Morocco, at banks, bureaux de change or airport counters. Keep the receipt in case you have questions later, and compare rates and fees between two or three places before choosing.
- Carry plenty of small notes and coins. Petit taxis, cafés, public toilets and market stalls often have trouble changing a 200 DH note.
- Cash is the norm in markets and small shops, while larger hotels and restaurants more often take cards.
- Agree the price before a ride or a purchase, and count your change.
- Ask your own bank about foreign card and ATM fees before you travel.
Planning the rest of your trip? Our guide to the best time to visit Morocco covers the seasons, and the one-day Marrakech itinerary shows where small change comes in handy. Hungry? See our Moroccan food guide.
FAQ
What is the currency of Morocco?
The Moroccan dirham (MAD), issued by Bank Al-Maghrib and divided into 100 santimat.
Is the dirham linked to the euro?
It is tied to a basket of 60% euro and 40% US dollar, and can move within a 5% band either side of a central rate.
Which banknotes does Morocco use?
Notes come in 20, 50, 100 and 200 dirhams, with coins from half a dirham up to 10 dirhams.
Sources: Wikipedia, Moroccan dirham; Bank Al-Maghrib.
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