The essential Moroccan Arabic phrasebook — greetings, food, bargaining, directions and more.
Darija is written right-to-left in Arabic script. Learn to recognise these letters.
Click any card to flip between Darija, Arabic script and pronunciation. 100+ phrases across 8 categories.
kh = guttural sound like Scottish "loch" · gh = soft gargle · 3 = deep throat sound (ع) · 7 = breathy h (ح) · q = deep k from back of throat · stress varies — follow the pronunciation guides above. Even a basic attempt earns huge smiles from Moroccans.
Essential for bargaining, telling time and understanding prices.
In traditional souks, prices are sometimes quoted in Rials (1 MAD = 20 Rials). If a vendor says "khmsa w ʿshrin rial" (25 Rials), that's 1.25 MAD. Always clarify: "Dirham wella Rial?" to avoid confusion.
The 20 phrases that will carry you through 90% of situations in Morocco.
Morocco was a French and Spanish protectorate, and French remains a second language in cities. If Darija fails, try French — especially in Casablanca, Rabat and with educated Moroccans.
Moroccans are famously warm toward visitors who try to speak Darija. You don't need to be perfect — even a mangled "Sbah lkhir!" with a smile will open doors, earn free tea and make lasting connections.
In Atlas mountain villages and rural south, Tamazight is spoken. Key phrases: Azul (hello), Tanmirt (thank you), Amek tgit? (how are you?). Using even one Berber word in the mountains will astonish and delight locals.
Build your Morocco itinerary now and travel with confidence.
Build My Itinerary Download Phrasebook PDF