Currency in Morocco: A Guide to the Moroccan Dirham (MAD)

 


Morocco, a North African country known for its rich history, vibrant culture, and stunning landscapes, is a popular destination for tourists from around the world. If you're planning a trip to Morocco, it's important to familiarize yourself with the country's official currency, the Moroccan dirham (DH or MAD), and understand how to pay and exchange currencies during your visit.


The Moroccan dirham is the official currency unit of Morocco, and it is abbreviated as DH or MAD. The dirham is further divided into smaller units, with coins and banknotes of various denominations in circulation. The banknotes commonly used in Morocco are 20 DH, 50 DH, 100 DH, and 200 DH, while the coins in use are 0.50 DH, 1 DH, 2 DH, 5 DH, and 10 DH, as well as 1 centime, 5 centimes, 10 centimes, and 20 centimes.


When it comes to paying for goods and services in Morocco, you have the option to pay by cash or credit card, just like in most countries around the world. If you choose to pay by credit card, the exchange rate applied will be the current rate at the time of the transaction. It's worth noting that the maximum commission for credit card transactions varies depending on the issuing institution, but it generally does not exceed 1%.


In some establishments, particularly those that do not accept credit cards, it is advisable to pay in dirhams. The best places to exchange your currency for Moroccan dirhams are the exchange offices that are often found in tourist squares in each city in Morocco. Additionally, you can also exchange your currency at the airport or in hotels, although the exchange rates may not always be the most favorable.


If you're curious about the current exchange rates, you can easily find out the value of the Moroccan dirham in real-time by checking online or visiting a reliable currency exchange website. It's always a good idea to be aware of the current exchange rates to ensure that you are getting a fair deal when exchanging your currency.

It's also important to note that while the Moroccan dirham is the official currency in Morocco, some vendors, particularly in tourist areas, may also accept payment in other major currencies such as the US dollar or the Euro. However, it's generally recommended to pay in dirhams to avoid any potential issues with exchange rates or pricing discrepancies.


In conclusion, the Moroccan dirham (DH or MAD) is the official currency of Morocco, and it's important to familiarize yourself with the various denominations of banknotes and coins in circulation. When paying for goods and services, you have the option to pay by cash or credit card, with the exchange rate for credit card transactions being the current rate at the time of the transaction. Exchange offices in tourist squares, airports, and hotels are good places to change your currency for dirhams, and it's always a good idea to be aware of the current exchange rates. By being informed about the currency in Morocco and how to pay and exchange currencies, you can ensure a smooth and enjoyable trip to this fascinating country.