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Tourist scams and rip-offs in Casablanca, Morocco: how to avoid them
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Casablanca is generally safe for tourists during the day, with a calm feel for a city of its size, but petty theft and overcharging are the main concerns. The biggest watchpoints are unlicensed taxi drivers at the airport and pickpocketing in crowded markets and around transport hubs. Daytime taxis from the airport use a fairly standard fare, and the official train into the centre is the most reliable option.
Updated September 2026
Common scams in Casablanca, Morocco and how to avoid them
1. Unlicensed airport drivers
How it works: Drivers approach arriving passengers inside the terminal offering a ride at inflated flat rates, often without meters or identification, and may refuse the official rank fare.
How to avoid it: Walk past them and use only the official metered taxis at the rank outside arrivals. Agree the fare before leaving.
2. Taxis refusing the meter
How it works: Drivers quote a fixed price several times the meter rate, especially for tourists not speaking Arabic or French, or claim the meter is broken.
How to avoid it: Insist the driver start the meter, or name a fair price in advance and walk away if refused.
3. Distraction and pickpocketing
How it works: Crowded markets and trams are used for staged collisions or questions while an accomplice lifts a wallet, phone or bag.
How to avoid it: Keep bags zipped and in front, avoid flashing valuables, and step aside from anyone crowding you.
4. Friendly guide or helper scam
How it works: Strangers offer unsolicited directions, tours or help with tickets or taxis, then demand payment afterward, sometimes aggressively.
How to avoid it: Politely refuse help you did not ask for, and use official tourist information for guidance.
5. Bill with added charges
How it works: Some restaurants add unmentioned cover, bread or 'service' charges to the bill, or present a menu without prices for tourists.
How to avoid it: Confirm the menu prices before ordering and review the itemised bill; question any unexplained line.
Official tickets for the top sights in Casablanca, Morocco
Skip street sellers: book official tickets and tours with free cancellation.
From the airport to the city centre
Mohammed V International Airport
Fair taxi price (official, daytime): 250 MAD - 300 MAD (€22 - €27). Use the official, metered taxis at the designated rank outside arrivals. Agree on the fare before starting, or insist the meter runs. Refuse unlicensed drivers who approach you inside the terminal.
Best alternative: ONCF train from the airport station to Casa Voyageurs or Casa Port (50 MAD (€4.47), about 50 min)
Public transport: tickets, validation and fines
- Single ticket
- 7 MAD (€0.63) (Single tram ride or one bus ticket)
- Validation rules
- Trams and most buses require a prepaid card ticket, validated at the platform validator or on board before travel. Tap or validate on boarding and at exits where gates are in use. Travel without a validated ticket is an offence.
- Fine without a valid ticket
- 300 MAD (€26.84). Fine applied on the spot by inspectors for travelling without a valid, validated ticket.
- Paying by card
- Contactless bank cards work in many places, and the official transport app supports card payment.
Tipping and service charges
Tipping: Rounding up the fare is standard for taxis. In restaurants, 5-10% is expected for good service, and small change is common in cafés.
Cover and service charges: Most restaurants include service in the bill, but a service charge may appear separately. Check the menu for listed cover charges before ordering.
Cards, ATMs and currency exchange
Always choose to be charged in Moroccan dirhams and decline dynamic currency conversion at ATMs and card terminals. Prefer ATMs attached to major banks, and be aware that some independent machines charge higher fees. The network lets you withdraw a practical daily amount for cash and small purchases.
Areas where extra care is advised
- Around Casa Voyageurs station: Keep bags closed and stay alert late at night, as the station area sees opportunistic theft.
- Old medina and central souks: Keep valuables secured and avoid flashing cash; pickpocketing is more common in the crowds.
Emergency number
19
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Frequently Asked Questions about Casablanca, Morocco
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Based on widely reported traveler experiences and official advice. Prices are approximate and change; check current fares on arrival. Updated September 2026.