Are you planning a trip to Morocco and want to connect more deeply with the culture and people? One of the best ways to enhance your travel experience is to learn Moroccan Arabic, also known as Darija. While many Moroccans speak French or even some English, knowing a few essential Moroccan phrases will make your interactions smoother—and locals will love you for it.
In this guide, you’ll find everything you need to get started with Darija for travelers, including 25 simple yet powerful phrases that will help you navigate markets, taxis, restaurants, and daily encounters like a pro.
Why Learn Moroccan Arabic (Darija) Before Visiting Morocco?
Moroccan Arabic, or Darija, is a unique dialect that blends Arabic with Amazigh (Berber), French, and Spanish influences. It’s fast-paced, rich in slang, and full of personality.
Even learning a handful of phrases can:
- Show respect for the local culture
- Help you bargain in souks (markets)
- Break the ice with locals
- Make your trip more immersive and fun
Whether you’re visiting Marrakech, Fes, Chefchaouen, or the Sahara, speaking even a little Darija for tourists goes a long way.
Tips for Learning Moroccan Arabic as a Tourist
Before diving into the phrases, here are some quick tips for learning and using Darija for travelers:
- Focus on pronunciation: Moroccan Arabic is often spoken quickly. Try listening to audio examples or ask locals to repeat slowly.
- Use hand gestures and smiles: Communication is more than words.
- Practice daily: Repetition is key, even if you’re learning just one phrase a day.
Don’t be shy: Moroccans are warm and encouraging. They’ll appreciate the effort!
25 Useful Moroccan Arabic (Darija) Phrases Locals Love
Below are some common Moroccan phrases that will help you in real situations. They are written in a way that is easy to pronounce, with the English meaning alongside.
Basic Greetings
1. Salam alaykum – Hello / Peace be upon you
2. Wa alaykum salam – Response: And peace be upon you
3. Labas? – How are you? (literally: All good?)
4. Labas, shukran – I’m good, thank you
5. Bikhir – Fine / Good
6. Shukran – Thank you
7. La shukran – No thank you
8. Afak – Please
9. Smah li – Excuse me / Sorry
10. Maalish – It’s okay / No problem
11. Feen…? – Where is…?
12. Ana dayae – I’m lost
13. Shhal taman? – How much is it?
14. Nqiss shwiya afak – Lower the price a little, please
15. Ma bghitsh – I don’t want it
16. Bghit nemshi l… – I want to go to…
17. Waqtach katsdou? – What time do you close?
18. Fin kayn taxi? – Where can I find a taxi?
Eating Out
19. Bghit nakol… – I want to eat…
20. 3ndkom chi matʿam zwin? – Do you have a good restaurant?
21. Bla l7em afak – Without meat please
22. 3andek menu? – Do you have a menu?
23. Kulshi bikhir? – Is everything okay?
24. Lma, afak – Water, please
25. Mtsharfeen – Nice to meet you
Moroccan Culture Through Language
When you learn Moroccan Arabic, you’re not just learning to communicate—you’re learning culture. The way Moroccans speak is filled with warmth and hospitality. A simple Salam alaykum can open doors and hearts. Even bargaining in a souk becomes fun when you drop a few well-placed phrases like “shhal taman?” followed by a smile and a polite “nqass shwiya, afak.”
Moroccans love it when foreigners try to speak Darija—even if your accent isn’t perfect. It shows you’re genuinely interested in their culture, not just passing through. Follow us on Instagram to get more Moroccan Darija Phrases.
How to Practice Darija Before Your Trip
Here are a few easy ways to practice Darija for tourists before arriving in Morocco:
YouTube Channels: Look for beginner Darija lessons or Moroccan vloggers with subtitles. Effective Arabic is a good choice to start learning & listening basic phrases.
Moroccan Darija Books: Find useful Phrasebooks that share valuable lessons, Unlocking Moroccan Darija is one of the best books.
Mobile Apps: While not all language apps offer Moroccan Arabic, some do have basics or community contributions.
Flashcards: Write out the phrases above and review them daily.
Audio Resources: Try to repeat what you hear. Moroccan Arabic has a distinct rhythm that’s easier to learn when spoken aloud.
Learn Moroccan Arabic and Travel Smarter
Morocco is a land of color, culture, and kindness. By making the effort to learn Moroccan Arabic, you’re taking an important step toward being a respectful and savvy traveler. These 25 Moroccan phrases are just the beginning of a deeper connection with the people and places you’ll encounter.
From the bustling souks of Marrakech to the calm alleys of Chefchaouen, speaking a little Darija will make your journey more memorable, and your experience more authentic.
So what are you waiting for? Start practicing, and get ready to say “Mtsharfeent!” when you meet your first new Moroccan friend.