LGBT+ travel

Morocco for LGBT+ travellers

Marrakech & tourist areasIllegal or prosecutedChecked 22 October 2026 · FCDO updated 19 August 2026

Same-sex relations are illegal in Morocco, and the FCDO says public affection can lead to prosecution. Tourists are rarely targeted, and Marrakech's riads see same-sex couples all the time. The main risks are dating apps and anything that happens in public.

Legal and broadly accepted
Legal, but conservative attitudes
Illegal or prosecuted
Illegal; death penalty possible

RatingIllegal or prosecuted

Official advice updated19 August 2026

Areas covered4 on this page

Morocco has an odd double reputation. The law is strict, yet Tangier and Marrakech have drawn gay writers and artists for a century, and a modern riad is often run by international owners who don't care who shares the bed. Moroccan men often walk arm in arm as friends, which means two men together draw little attention. A kiss is a very different matter.

Where it feels different

Marrakech riads & boutique hotelsIllegal or prosecuted
Same-sex couples are common guests. Many riads are foreign-owned or used to Western visitors.
Essaouira & the coastIllegal or prosecuted
A relaxed, arty town, with the same legal position.
Rural areas & smaller townsIllegal or prosecuted
More conservative. Expect questions about your marital status.
Dating appsIllegal; death penalty possible
The FCDO warns that apps carry legal, safety and privacy risks, and could break laws on sex outside marriage. Robberies and blackmail have been reported.

Before you go

Choose a riad with good reviews from LGBT+ guests.
Avoid public affection, especially near mosques and religious sites.
Don't meet app contacts in private.

Official advice: FCDO travel advice for Morocco

Stay and do

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Questions people ask

Is Marrakech gay friendly?

It is used to gay visitors, and many riads welcome same-sex couples, but same-sex relations are illegal in Morocco. Keep things private and you're very unlikely to have problems.

Is it illegal to be gay in Morocco?

Yes. Same-sex relations are illegal, and the FCDO says public affection can lead to prosecution. Tourists who stay discreet are rarely targeted.

Can a same-sex couple share a room in a Moroccan riad?

Usually, yes. Riads in Marrakech often host same-sex couples. Choose one with good reviews from LGBT+ guests and keep affection private.

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Waymark summarises official UK government (FCDO) travel advice and other public sources to help you plan. It is not a substitute for that advice, which can change at short notice. Always read the latest FCDO page for your destination and check your insurance before you book. Content last checked 22 October 2026.