Essential Moroccan Phrases for Travelers:
Speak Like a Local in Morocco
Find the most useful Moroccan Arabic (Darija) phrases for travelers. Learn how to greet, order food, shop in souks, and connect with locals in Morocco with confidence.
Why Learning Moroccan Phrases Matters
Morocco is a land of warmth and hospitality and nothing breaks the ice faster than a friendly word in Darija, the local Moroccan Arabic.
Even a few simple phrases can turn a polite exchange into a genuine cultural connection.
Pro Tip:
Learning just 10-15 essential words can help you navigate taxis, restaurants, and souks effortlessly.
The Moroccan Languages at a Glance
Before diving into the phrases, it helps to know Morocco’s linguistic mix:
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Darija (Moroccan Arabic): Spoken everywhere the everyday language.
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Tamazight (Berber): Common in the Atlas Mountains and rural areas.
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French: Used in hotels, restaurants, and business.
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English: Increasingly popular among young Moroccans in tourist cities.
☑Tip: Most Moroccans mix Darija with French or English when speaking to tourists don’t be shy to do the same!
Common Greetings (Salutations)
| English | Darija (Moroccan Arabic) | Pronunciation | Meaning |
|---|---|---|---|
| Hello | Salam | sah-lahm | Peace / Hi |
| Good morning | Sbah l-khir | sbaah el-kheer | Morning greeting |
| Good evening | Msa l-khir | msa el-kheer | Evening greeting |
| How are you? | Kidayr? (m) / Kidayra? (f) | kee-dayr / kee-dayra | How are you doing? |
| I’m fine, thank you | Labas, shukran | lah-bas shoo-kran | I’m good, thanks |
🧡 Cultural tip: Always greet before asking for something. Moroccans appreciate politeness!
Eating Out/Restaurant Phrases
| English | Darija | Pronunciation |
|---|---|---|
| Menu please | L’lista afak | leelista afak |
| I want… | Bghit… | b-reet |
| Water | Lma | el-ma |
| Tea | Atay | ah-tay |
| Delicious! | Bnin! | b-neen |
| The bill please | L’hisab afak | l-heesaab afak |
☑Traveler tip: Try ordering tea or tagine in Darija locals will love your effort and often give a friendly smile or small discount!
Shopping & Souks
| English | Darija | Pronunciation |
|---|---|---|
| How much is this? | Bsh-hal hadshi? | bsh-hal had-shee |
| Too expensive! | Ghali bzzaf! | ghah-lee bzzaf |
| Can you lower the price? | Nqss shwiya afak | nqss shwee-ya afak |
| I’ll think about it | Ghadi nfkr | gha-dee nf-ker |
| Okay, deal! | Safi, tmam | sah-fee, t-maam |
If you’re planning to shop in Marrakech or Fes, check our guide ⇉ How to Bargain in Moroccan Souks ⇇ to master the art of haggling like a local.
Transportation & Directions
| English | Darija | Pronunciation |
|---|---|---|
| Where is…? | Fin kayn…? | feen kayn |
| How much to go to…? | Bashhal lamashi…? | bsh-hal l-mashee |
| Stop here please | Wqf hna afak | woqf hna afak |
| Bus station | Mhatta dyal toubis | mha-tta dyal too-bees |
| Taxi | Taxi | tak-see |
✔Useful tip:
Always agree on the price with the driver before starting your ride (especially with grand taxis).
Hotels & Accommodation
| English | Darija | Pronunciation |
|---|---|---|
| Do you have a room? | Wash 3ndkom bit? | wash aand-kom beet |
| How much per night? | Bshhal lila? | bsh-hal leela |
| With breakfast? | M3a ftor? | ma3a ftoor |
| Thank you very much | Shukran bzaf | shoo-kran bzzaf |
For authentic riad stays and local experiences, check ⇥Best Riads and Hotels in Morocco⇤
Useful Expressions for Daily Life
| English | Darija | Meaning |
|---|---|---|
| Yes | Iyah / Wakha | Okay / Yes |
| No | La | No |
| Please | Afak | Please |
| Thank you | Shukran | Thanks |
| You’re welcome | Bslama / Marhba | Welcome / Goodbye |
| Excuse me | Smah li | Sorry / Excuse me |
🧡 Fun Fact:
“Wakha” (واخا) is one of the most used Moroccan words it means Okay / Alright and you’ll hear it everywhere!
Learn More Before You Go!
Want to dive deeper into Moroccan culture?
Check out our guides:
Or explore the best experiences with our recommended tours ⇶ Top Morocco Activities
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