Getting Married In Morocco
Rabat
overview
Home to Casablanca, the Atlas Mountains and Yves Saint Laurent’s magical Marrakech residence, Morocco is a sought after location for a destination wedding. This country has it all, from the food and festivities to traditions that add an element of mystical romance, it’s a natural location for an unforgettable experience.
the lowdown
Morocco’s culture is a mix of Berber, Arabian and European influences, which makes it a vibrant place to host a wedding party. Cities such as Fez and Marrakech are bustling and architecturally inspiring while coastal towns like Essaouira offer a slower pace of celebration, as well as stunning swathes of sparkling sand. You can take your pick of wedding venues in Morocco –a shady, chic Riad, a sophisticated hotel or a billowing desert tent, it’s up to you.
Given the rich mix of influences, wedding feasting is an extensive affair. Opt for traditional Moroccan tagine, seffa (short noodles) or even a whole roasted sheep. In a nod to its colonial heritage there is also plenty of French cuisine in Morocco–think beef tartare or duck with a hazelnut puree.
This is an Islamic country so make sure you have a licensed venue if you want the champagne to flow freely. For those not a fan of deep heat, avoid the months of June to August when much of the country is arid and dry. Traditional weddings in Morocco can last anywhere from three days to an entire weekso if youenjoy wedding celebrations for days, this African country is the place to get hitched. Brides are Queens and the wedding day is the coronation in Morocco, much more so than Europe or America. Ornate and beautifully decorated outfits, henna’d hands and dripping jewels are fairly standard –there are no minimal wedding aesthetics here.
The magic of Arabian Nights has fully sprinkled its fairy dust over Morocco as a wonder wedding location.Dreamy destinations, opulent outfits and fantastic food combine to create a truly special experience.
Make sure to check out our hand picked selection of the best wedding venues in Morocco.
insider note...
Avoid organising your wedding during Ramadan (May – June). According to Islamic tradition no one eats during daytime hours over the course of this month. Although that won’t stop you and your guests from indulging it might make it difficult to get things done or find caterers etc who aren’t slightly hangry.
Flight Duration
3hrs 40
Currency
Moroccan dirham.
Language Spoken
Arabic and Berber. English is widely spoken.
Vaccinations
Up to date Poliomyelitis and Tetanus, Typhoid and Hepatitis A.
Transportation
Most larger cities have a public bus service but many visitors rely on taxis. Always ask the driver to turn the meter on and bear in mind that there can be a 50% surcharge after 8pm.
Public Holidays
These include Muslim New Year and the festivals of Eid (which vary each year), Proclamation of Independence (11th January), Oued Ed-Dahab Day (14th August) and Independence Day (18th December).
Etiquette
As Morocco is a Muslim country it’s better to err on the side of caution in terms of what you wear when out and about. Avoid shorts and, if you’re female, keep chest and arms covered.
Good Time to Go
Mid-March to October.
good to know
There are specific wedding traditions in the Moroccan culture. Painting hands with intricate henna designs, and being dressed in exotic costumes are all part of a bridal experience. The geometric designs on the henna are said to ward off evil and encourage fertility.
