Ramadan and expatriates in Morocco: practical guide

Do you live in Morocco — Casablanca, Marrakech, Tangier, Rabat — and Ramadan is approaching? This sacred month of the Islamic calendar deeply punctuates Moroccan life. For the non-Muslim expatriates, a few guidelines are enough to live this period peacefully while respecting local customs.

What is Ramadan in Morocco?

Ramadan is the ninth month of the Islamic lunar calendar, during which practicing Muslims fast from sunrise to sunset. In Morocco, almost the entire population observes this fast. Working hours, businesses and social life adapt: ​​the day starts early, a long break marks the time of maghrib (sunset and breaking of the fast), and nightlife resumes until late.

For expatriates, understanding these changes helps avoid misunderstandings and better organize their daily lives.

Duties and respect: what to do as an expatriate?

Fasting is not not obligatory for non-Muslims. On the other hand, out of courtesy and respect:

• Avoid eating, drinking or smoking on the street, public transport and public places during the day
• If you must eat or drink outdoors, do so discreetly or in private areas
• Restaurants in hotels and tourist areas remain open at midday for non-fasters
• Avoid professional or administrative meetings around maghrib time (breaking the fast)

Modified hours: administrations, shops, banks

During Ramadan, hours are generally reduced and shifted:

• Administrations and banks : closing earlier (often around 2 or 3 p.m.)
• Shops and markets : opening in the morning, closing before the Maghrib, reopening sometimes in the evening
• Restaurants and cafes : many close during the day and reopen after iftar
• Supermarkets : variable hours; consider doing your shopping in the morning or early afternoon

Medical or administrative appointments are preferably made in the morning or after 8 p.m. Traffic can be heavy just before and after the Maghrib.

Where to eat during Ramadan as an expat?

You are not required to fast. Here's where to eat without disrespect:

• At your place — obvious and unconstrained
• Restaurants in hotels and tourist establishments — open at lunchtime for travelers and expatriates
• Some “Western” restaurants in large cities — often open during the day
• After the Maghrib — all restaurants and snack bars reopen; nightlife is in full swing

Large brands (McDonald's, etc.) often adapt their schedules; check before you travel.

Entertainment and TV during Ramadan

The evenings after iftar are long. Moroccans watch Ramadan series (special series broadcast during the holy month) and local channels. For expatriates who want to keep their habits — TF1, M6, France 2, Canal+ and their favorite shows — these channels are geoblocked in Morocco.

L'IPTV for expats allows you to receive all your French and European channels from Morocco, without geographical restrictions. Ideal for following the 8 p.m. news, your series or live sports during the long evenings of Ramadan.

Eid al-Fitr: the end of Ramadan celebration

Ramadan ends withEid al-Fitr (or “Eid es-Seghir”), a major family celebration. Moroccans celebrate for one to three days: family meals, visits, gifts to children. Administrations and businesses close. If you are planning any procedures or travel, avoid these days.

In summary

Ramadan in Morocco is an intense and convivial period. By respecting a few simple rules – no eating/drinking/smoking in public during the day, adapting to schedules – expatriates get through this period without difficulty. Take advantage of the long evenings to entertain yourself: IPTV allows you to keep your French channels from Morocco, all year round.