Drinking Beer In Marrakech: What's The Deal?

Morocco is a Muslim country, and alcohol plays a very small part in the lives of most Moroccans. However, it is not illegal to drink alcohol in Marrakech, and tourists are allowed to drink in licensed hotels, bars, and tourist areas. There are a few restrictions on where you can buy and consume alcohol in the city, but it is available in many restaurants, bars, nightclubs, and some larger supermarkets.

Beer is available in some supermarkets, including Carrefour and Champion

While alcohol is available in Marrakech, it is not as common as it is in Europe or the USA due to the culture and religion of the predominantly Muslim country. As such, drinking alcohol in public or being visibly drunk is frowned upon. However, tourists are allowed to drink alcohol in licensed hotels, bars, and tourist areas.

In addition to supermarkets, alcohol can also be purchased in licensed bars and restaurants, as well as nightclubs. The Gueliz district, created by the French, is known for its nightlife and offers a variety of bars and nightclubs. Alcohol is also available in some of the classy hotels in the Medina.

Alcohol must be consumed in designated, non-public spaces

Alcohol consumption is legal in Marrakech, but it must be consumed in designated, non-public spaces. While drinking alcohol is not illegal in Marrakech if you are not a Moroccan citizen, it is important to be mindful of local customs and regulations. Here are some key points to consider:

Designated Drinking Areas

Drinking alcohol in public spaces, such as the street, a terrace, or any other public place, is prohibited. Alcohol must be consumed in designated areas, typically inside licensed hotels, bars, or tourist areas. Licensed bars are often windowless, ensuring that drinkers are not visible from the outside. There are a limited number of bars and restaurants that permit drinking outdoors, but only tourists are exempt from the restrictions on public drinking.

Purchasing Alcohol

When purchasing alcohol, you will need to do so in licensed establishments. Alcohol is available in larger supermarkets outside the Medina, such as Carrefour, Champion, and Label Vie. These supermarkets usually have a separate section called 'La Cave,' which is equivalent to a liquor store. Additionally, there are specialist wine shops in the new districts of Gueliz and Hivernage that sell alcohol but close at 8:00 pm.

Drinking Culture in Marrakech

It is important to note that alcohol consumption is not a common part of daily life for most Moroccans, as the majority of Muslims do not drink. Drinking culture in Marrakech is primarily restricted to tourists and non-Muslim locals. The Medina, or the old town, is the most challenging area to find alcohol due to its traditional nature. However, there are a few 'tourist' restaurants and bars in this area that serve alcohol, particularly around the main square, Jemaa el Fna.

Respecting Local Customs

While drinking alcohol is not offensive for foreigners in Marrakech, it is crucial to respect the local culture and customs. Drinking should be done discreetly and responsibly, avoiding public drunkenness. Additionally, it is recommended to dress respectfully, especially when consuming alcohol, as clothing that reveals too much of one's body may attract unwanted attention.

Alcohol is available in some restaurants, but not all

Alcohol is available in some restaurants in Marrakech, but not all. While alcohol is not illegal in Marrakech, it is also not commonly consumed by most Moroccans due to religious reasons. As such, it is not as readily available as it may be in other countries.

In the Medina, alcohol is available in a few bars and restaurants, usually those that cater to tourists. These include the tourist restaurants around the main square, Jemaa El Fna, and some classy hotels. However, these places may not advertise that they serve alcohol, so you may have to ask. Alcohol in the Medina also tends to be very expensive compared to other parts of the city.

The Gueliz district in the New Town is a better place to find a variety of bars and nightclubs that serve alcohol. This area is known for its nightlife and is about a 10-minute drive or taxi ride from the Medina. Here, you can find typical Moroccan bars with live music, shishas, Moroccan wine, and beer. These bars are a great way to experience a typical Moroccan night out.

In addition to bars and restaurants, alcohol can also be purchased in some larger supermarkets outside the Medina, such as Champion or Carrefour. These supermarkets usually have a separate section called 'La Cave', which is equivalent to a liquor shop.

It is important to note that alcohol must be consumed in designated and non-visible places, such as inside a bar or restaurant. Drinking in public places, such as on the street or on a terrace, is not allowed for anyone, and tourists are only allowed to drink in public in a small number of bars and restaurants.

Alcohol is also available in nightclubs

Marrakech is a predominantly Muslim city, and alcohol plays a very small part in the daily lives of its citizens. However, it is not illegal to drink alcohol in Marrakech if you are not a Moroccan citizen. Alcohol is available in the city, but it is not as easy to find as it is in Europe or the USA.

Marrakech has some of the best clubs in Morocco, including the Pacha, the biggest nightclub in the country, and the 555 Famous Club, which is open until 5 am and often hosts international singers and DJs. Alcohol is available in nightclubs, but it is important to note that drinking in public or being drunk in public is prohibited. It is also illegal to sell alcohol to people under the age of 18.

In nightclubs, drinks typically cost between 80 and 160 DH. It is worth noting that clubs tend to be expensive due to taxes. If you are of legal drinking age and wish to consume alcohol in a nightclub, it is best to do so discreetly and in moderation.

It is also important to be mindful of cultural differences and local laws when consuming alcohol in Marrakech. While drinking is allowed for non-Muslim visitors, it is generally restricted to licensed hotels, bars, and tourist areas. Licensed bars are often windowless to prevent those inside from being seen by passersby. Additionally, drinking and driving is strictly prohibited, so it is advisable to hire a taxi if you plan on consuming alcohol.

While alcohol is available in Marrakech, it is not as widely consumed as in some other countries. Most locals do not drink, and those who do tend to drink in the newer areas of the city. The Medina, the old town, is the most traditional part of the city and has fewer options for purchasing alcohol. The Gueliz district, created by the French, is known for its nightlife and offers a wider variety of bars and clubs.

In conclusion, alcohol is available in Marrakech nightclubs, but it is important to consume it responsibly and follow local laws and cultural norms.

Alcohol is more readily available in the new town, Gueliz

Alcohol is more readily available in the new town of Gueliz, Marrakech, than in the old town of Medina. In Gueliz, you will find a variety of bars, nightclubs, and specialist shops selling alcohol. The neighbourhood is known for its nightlife and is home to Pacha, the biggest nightclub in Morocco. Here, you can find typical Moroccan bars with live music, shishas, Moroccan wine, and beer. These bars are usually pretty colourful and a bit hidden away.

There are also several exclusive wine shops in Gueliz, including Nicolas and the Atelier de Vin, where knowledgeable staff can advise you on buying Moroccan wine.

In terms of supermarkets, the big chains such as Carrefour, Champion, and Label Vie usually have an alcohol section. In Gueliz, there is a big supermarket with a good selection of beers, wines, and spirits in the Carre Eden Mall.

Alcohol is also available in some of the restaurants in Gueliz, which offer a much wider variety of chic bars and European restaurants.

While alcohol is more readily available in Gueliz, it is important to note that it is still subject to certain restrictions in Marrakech and Morocco as a whole. Alcohol must be purchased and consumed in licensed hotels, bars, and tourist areas. Licensed bars tend to have no windows, as drinking is allowed but not in view of those outside. Additionally, drinking in public is generally restricted to tourists.

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