Dakhla follows predominantly Moroccan Islamic and Arab cultural norms, with significant Sahrawi (indigenous Western Saharan) influence. Some etiquette is shared with Morocco nationwide; several points are specifically documented for Dakhla's local context.
Good to know
Good to Know
- Female travelers in Dakhla report not experiencing the street harassment common in other parts of Morocco – no catcalls or discomforting comments were heard.
- Languages spoken in Western Sahara include Hassaniya Arabic, Moroccan Arabic, Spanish and French. In Dakhla itself, there wasn't much Spanish spoken, mostly Arabic and French.
- The etiquette in Morocco is to tip – among others – waiters in cafés (1dh per person) and restaurants (5dh or so in moderate places, 10–15 percent in upmarket places).
- Tea is poured slowly, conversations unfold without hurry, and respect for guests remains central.
Greetings
- Description
- Greetings are important, with a handshake and polite exchange setting the tone. Moroccans will say "salaam alykum" (hello) to everyone, even in large gatherings and they'll ask about your health and the wellbeing of your family and children. Always greet with your right hand, as your left is traditionally considered unclean. Kissing cheeks is practiced between members of the same sex -- especially if they are friends -- but should not be performed between opposite sexes unless each is well known to the other.
Home Visits
When invited to a home, you normally take your shoes off before entering the reception rooms – follow your host's lead. It is Moroccan custom to take a gift: sweet pastries or tea and sugar are always acceptable.
Public Behavior
- Alcohol
- Alcohol exists in Morocco, but its presence is contextual. It is served in licensed restaurants, hotels, and certain bars, especially in major cities. Public drinking, however, is not socially accepted. Being visibly drunk outside private or designated spaces can create problems.
- Photography
- Ask permission before photographing people, homes, or gatherings.
- Physical Affection
- Public displays of affection between opposite sexes such as kissing are not allowed.
Sensitive Topics
- LèSe Majesté
- Morocco has lèse–majesté laws which means it's illegal to criticise, mock or speak badly about the Moroccan king and the royal family. Defacing the king's image is also illegal, and breaking these laws could actually land you in jail.
- Religious Respect
- Another big no-no is criticising Islam. More than 99% of the Moroccan population are Muslim and Islam is the state religion of Morocco. If you disrespect Islam here, you risk offending the locals.
- Political Discussions
- Avoid discussions on political topics related to the Western Sahara region with locals. In Morocco, taboo conversation subjects include the royal family, the political situation in the Western Sahara and Algeria, and drugs.
Beckoning Gesture
If you need to beckon someone, don't use your index finger to motion a person over, as this is considered very rude in Moroccan culture. Instead, place your palm downward and sweep the hand toward yourself.
Sources cited for this category
These are the sources cited in this culture & etiquette research for this city. Individual figures may not each trace to one of them.
More About Dakhla
Data last updated July 2026 · Verify anything important.