Local time
The local time zone is GMT + 01.00.
Visa and Passport
The need for a visa depends on your nationality. It is possible to submit and track applications for E-Visa or AEVM (Electronic Travel Authorizations to Morocco) through Acces Maroc portal. For all nationalities, the maximum duration of the tourist trip is 90 days. A request for an extension can be made at the nearest police station to stay an additional 90 days. For foreign nationals arriving in Morocco as part of an organized trip, a valid passport must cover at least the duration of the stay in Morocco. To avoid any inconvenience upon arrival in Morocco, make sure you have a valid passport.
Weather
The weather in Marrakech is very comfortable in November. It is the start of the best season to visit the city. Average temperature is between 19-28°C.
Morocco visitor information
Emergency Contact Numbers
Police 19
Firefighters 15 or 0524 43 04 15
Royal Gendarmerie 177
Ambulance 150
Pharmacies
Most pharmacies are open Monday to Saturday 9am–7:30pm. There are also all-night pharmacies. You can check the list of pharmacies in Marrakech.
https://www.ville-marrakech.ma/blog/liste-des-pharmacies-par-arrondissement/112/
Currency
The official currency of Morocco is the Dirham (MAD). At present, one USD is equivalent to 9,82 dirhams and one EURO is equivalent to 10,77 dirhams.
Credit Cards
All major credit cards are accepted in vast majority of shops and restaurants. Attendees may find it useful to obtain a good amount of local currency for incidental expenses and tipping. While taxis only accept cash for taxi fares.
External currency is not usually accepted, but money exchange offices are everywhere.
Electrical & Voltage Information
For Morocco there are two associated plug types, types C and E. Plug type C is the plug which has two round pins and plug type E is the plug which has two round pins and a hole for the socket’s male earthing pin. Morocco operates on a 220V supply voltage and 50Hz.
Country code
From overseas, dial +212, then the phone number.
Local laws and etiquette
Moroccans are typically welcoming and friendly people. If you are fortunate to make Moroccan friends or be welcomed into a family, it will make your stay all the more memorable and give you friends for life!
Having said this, alcohol is not commonly drunk in public places or malls. While independent restaurants are not allowed to serve alcohol, hotels, sports clubs and specially designated areas are permitted to serve alcoholic drinks in their bars and restaurants. However, to drink in a bar or restaurant, you need to be more than 21 years of age.
It is better to always carry your passport.
Many local municipalities have bans on smoking in public places, malls, metro stations, bus stations. “No smoking” signs should clearly indicate the areas in which smoking is prohibited.
Please wear respectful clothing in public places such as hotels, restaurants, malls and markets. Shoulders and knees should be covered.
Do not take pictures of local residents without asking their permission. Photography of many government buildings is prohibited. Be aware of signs prohibiting photography.
Morocco uses the metric system. The temperature is measured in Celsius; distance is measured in Km, etc.
Cars in Morocco drive on the right hand side of the road.
Transportation
Information about the conference venue and arrival information is at:
Wi-Fi
Wi-Fi is widely available throughout Marrakech and especially in shopping malls, coffee shops and the airports where it is provided free of charge.
Cell Service
The three major telecommunication companies operate 4G mobile networks in Morocco. These companies are IAM, Orange and Inwi.
For more information, feel free to visit these websites:
https://www.visitmorocco.com/en
Traveling to Marrakech for a conference can be convenient and efficient, especially if you're arriving from Casablanca (Casa) or Rabat. Here’s a breakdown of these cities' best options for reaching Marrakech.
From Casablanca to Marrakech
By Train (Recommended)
ONCF Train Service: The train is a popular and comfortable option. The journey takes approximately 2.5 to 3 hours, and trains run frequently throughout the day.
Cost: Tickets range from 100 to 200 MAD (around $10 to $20) depending on the class of service chosen.
Departure Point: Trains depart from Casa Voyageurs station in Casablanca.
By Flight
Flight Duration: The train is a popular and comfortable option. The journey takes approximately 2.5 to 3 hours, and trains run frequently throughout the day.
Airlines: Royal Air Maroc and other local airlines operate this route.
Cost: Flights can vary widely in price but typically start around 500 MAD ($50) if booked in advance.
By Bus
Bus Services: Several companies operate buses between Casablanca and Marrakech, such as CTM and Supratours.
Duration: The bus journey takes about 3 to 4 hours.
Cost: Tickets usually cost between 70 and 150 MAD ($7 to $15).
From Rabat to Marrakech
By Train
ONCF Train Service: Similar to the route from Casablanca, the train from Rabat to Marrakech is efficient.
Duration: The trip takes about 4 hours.
Cost: Expect to pay around 150 MAD ($15).
By Bus
Bus Services: Buses like CTM provide services from Rabat to Marrakech.
Duration: The bus ride is approximately 4 to 5 hours.
Cost: Tickets cost around 80 MAD ($8).
Arriving in Marrakech
Upon arrival in Marrakech, there are various transport options available to navigate the city:
From Marrakech Menara Airport
You can take the ALSA urban shuttle bus (line 19) for about 30 MAD, which runs every 20 minutes from 6 AM to 9:30 PM.
Taxis are also available, costing approximately 70 MAD during the day and 100 MAD at night, with regulated fares displayed at the airport.
Getting Around Marrakech
Taxis are generally the most convenient way to travel within the city. There are two types:
Petit taxis: Used for short distances within the city.
Grand taxis: Larger vehicles that can be shared or hired for longer trips.
Overall, traveling by train is often the preferred method due to its comfort and efficiency, particularly between major cities like Casablanca and Rabat.