Key points
- Alcohol is permitted in hotels, bars and urban supermarkets.
- Legal age 18 years; ID systematically requested.
- Meknes wines, Casablanca beers, local spirits (mahia).
- Discretion required, especially in rural areas and during Ramadan.
Table of Contents
- Introduction
- Legal context for alcohol availability in Morocco
- Where to find alcohol availability in Morocco
- Local wines, beers and availability
- Practical buying tips
- Etiquette and responsible consumption
- Alcohol availability: cities vs. countryside
- FAQs
- Further reading
Introduction
Alcohol availability in Morocco is often questioned by travelers: how easy is alcohol availability in Morocco for buying wine, beer or spirits? According to the Moroccan Ministry of Tourism, licensed hotels, bars and select supermarkets stock alcoholic beverages year-round. Whether you’re staying in Marrakech or venturing into rural areas, this guide explains where to shop, the legal requirements and the customs to observe.
Alcohol section in an urban supermarket.
Legal context for alcohol availability in Morocco
Morocco regulates alcohol strictly: only establishments holding a licence may sell it. In major cities and tourist districts, beer and wine are widely available—but expect closures or reduced hours in remote areas and during Ramadan.
Licence de vente d’alcool affichée dans un bar de Marrakech.
Legal age to purchase
The minimum age is 18. Always carry your passport or national ID; vendors will ask for proof.
Sales hours and Ramadan restrictions
- Weekdays: 10 am–8 pm
- Ramadan: many outlets close early or suspend sales entirely
Where to find alcohol availability in Morocco
- Hotels & riads – most international properties serve drinks.
- Bars – look in Guéliz (Marrakech), New Town (Casablanca).
- Supermarkets – high-end chains stock beer and wine.
- Specialty shops – dedicated cavistes carry a broader range.
Rayon vins et bières, Casablanca.
Local wines, beers and availability
- Wines: Meknès, Beni-Mellal, Kelaat M’Gouna (see our Moroccan wine regions).
- Beers: Casablanca, Stork.
- Spirits: Mahia (eau-de-vie de figue), Boukha (spiritueux de figue).
Practical buying tips
- Keep your ID on you.
- Shop between 10 am and 8 pm.
- Stock up before Ramadan if you’ll be traveling then.
- Use local apps or ask your host for the nearest licensed store.
Etiquette and responsible consumption
- Drink in private or in licensed venues only.
- Be discreet during religious holidays.
- Never drive after drinking—road checks are common.
- For cultural do’s and don’ts, see our Etiquette guide for Morocco.
Alcohol availability: cities vs. countryside
- Urban centres (Marrakech, Casablanca, Rabat, Fès): wide choice.
- Desert camps & mountain villages: minimal or no supply.
- Off-road explorers can refer to our Rural tourism tips.
FAQs
Is alcohol sold everywhere?
Mainly in cities and tourist areas.
Minimum drinking age?
18 years with valid ID.
Public consumption?
Allowed only in licensed venues or private spaces.
Finding Moroccan wine?
Visit cavistes in Marrakech, Casablanca or Meknès.
Sales during Ramadan?
Very limited—best to buy beforehand.
