Money in Morocco - Dirham, Francs and Pestas

If you are planning to travel to Morocco, it would be wise to exchange some of your money into Moroccan dirhams (MAD/DH). It would also be prudent to spend a little time getting to know how the local currency works since visitors to this exciting country often find it quite confusing.

Essentially, the currency of Morocco is quite simple. A dirham is made up of 100 centimes but confusion arises with the introduction of rials (also reales). In the majority of the country, 20 rials make up a dirham. However in Tangier and the Rif, only two rials are needed to make a Dirham. The rial is more of a form of monetary expression than an actual monetary unit and this is why it has no set standard. To add to the confusion, centimes are sometimes also called francs and pesetas in certain parts of the country. If you are bargaining for an item, it is usually best to ascertain exactly how many dirhams or centimes the seller is marketing his goods for.

Moroccan coins are available in 5c 10c 20c, 50c, 1dh, 5dh and 10dh. Notes are available in 20dh, 50dh, 100dh and 200dh. While the Moroccan economy is fairly stable you may find that you will be able to buy dirhams at a cheaper rate at some travel agents in Morocco than from others so it is usually a good idea to shop around. You will be able to exchange your money at most travel agents and at most major ports or stations that regularly deal with foreigners.

 

 



User Comments & Reviews: 28 Comment(s)

Page 1 of 6

Kira - 2011-04-06 12:51:46

I am thinking about coming to morrocco in september, isit best to change up my money before i get there or once i am in the country?

Reply to this comment

Julie - 2011-03-20 09:38:50

Slightly confused now. I am going for 10 days to marrakesh, do i take dollars, euros, pounds or dirhams?

Reply to this comment

Somnath jha - 2011-03-10 10:37:24

Dear Sir, I am planning to come in morocco. would u like to tell me 100 dirhams mean how much indian rupees or is it situated near by europe or what

Reply to this comment

>> Back to Top

Click to show more comments...






Combine Flights?












Password Reminder

Or sign in using one of the following providers:

Latest Travel Articles

Discover the Ancient Roman Settlement of Sala Colonia

Referred to as Sala by Ptolemy, the renowned Greek-Roman mathematician, astronomer, and geograph... read more

Morocco’s Wild Cats

Morocco has a number of national parks and reserves providing excellent opportunities for visito... read more

The Historic Kingdom of Nekor

Located in the Rif region of Morocco, the town of Nekor was founded in 710 AD and served as the ... read more

Butterflies, Birds and Stunning Scenery of Jbel Tazzeka

Nature lovers visiting Morocco are sure to enjoy exploring the Jbel Tazzeka National Park locate... read more

Enjoy the Natural Beauty of Dayet Aaoua

Dayet Aaoua is a freshwater lake located in the Middle Atlas, off the route between Ifrane and A... read more

More Articles