When the LGBTQ+ populations were persecuted in Europe, Morocco became an unexpected refuge, with places like Tangier and Marrakesh standing out as safe havens. These cities not only offer breathtaking beauty and cultural richness but also embody a unique sense of openness. For years, LGBTQ + Gay in Morocco found solace in the “been there, seen that” attitude of the locals, creating a space of quiet acceptance.
Even today, despite Morocco’s laws criminalizing homosexuality, destinations like Tangier and Marrakesh remain significant for LGBTQ+ travel. Marrakesh, in particular, is known for its stunning riads, vibrant souks, and an underground queer culture that echoes the city’s bohemian past. Similarly, Tangier’s historic charm and artistic vibe continue to attract LGBTQ+ tourists seeking inspiration and discretion.
While Morocco may not officially support LGBTQ+ rights, these cities offer a glimpse of tolerance, making them standout spots for gay-friendly travel in Morocco. However, LGBTQ+ travelers in Morocco need to remain mindful of local customs and cultural norms, navigating their journey with both respect and caution.
Homosexuality in Moroccan culture; LGBTQ+ travel safety
Morocco is located less than 15 kilometers south of mainland Europe, over the Strait of Gibraltar, and is a magnificent location full of sand dunes, beaches, bustling marketplaces, resort towns, and breathtaking mountain scenery. Morocco is a gorgeous nation that engages all of your senses, making it well worth a visit. Though Morocco is a popular destination for a variety of vacationers, it is not generally known for being particularly gay-friendly. However, this does not imply that LGBTQ+ tourism is wholly lacking.
Unlike its northern neighbor, Spain, where same-sex marriage is permitted, homosexuality in Morocco is illegal and punishable by up to three years in prison. To be fair, this is rarely enforced, and the severity of the penalties varies across the country. This rule does not apply to non-Moroccan same-sex partners who travel or remain together during their voyage. So, while you and your partner are exempt from the law as travelers, you should be aware that your LGBTQ+ brothers and sisters in Morocco are compelled to live a more restricted lifestyle.
Respect the local customs and be discreet in public when visiting Morocco as a homosexual traveler. In fact, both homosexual and heterosexual couples should avoid public displays of affection (for more information on Moroccan tourism necessities, see this page). The country’s predominantly Muslim population is conservative when it comes to PDA. Because this applies to both the gay and straight communities, gay tourism in Morocco should not offend the LGBTQ+ community, as it is simply a display of cultural respect.
Tradition and custom should be considered by any traveler, gay or straight, visiting to a new nation – and not simply for safety! It can also be considered as an opportunity to learn about life in another country by immersing yourself in its culture. Seeing something from the outside and experiencing it from the inside provides two quite distinct perspectives on a way of life.
LGBTQ+ People and Culture in Morocco.
Although same-sex sexual behavior is illegal in Morocco, this does not mean that the country lacks a gay culture. Morocco has long been and continues to be a favorite destination for LGBTQ+ travelers, whether the country recognizes it or not. Casablanca, as the largest urban metropolis, is the headquarters for the local LGBT population, however, it is not a popular tourist destination.
Morocco has long offered a safe refuge for people wishing to avoid attention, despite its laws and social mores. In many respects, Morocco’s current status as a socially accepting travel destination is the result of this history combined with the frequently unique and imaginative individuals who have incorporated Morocco into their tales.
Paul and Jane Bowles were Tangier’s uncontested odd couple for many years. Paul Bowles, a musician and writer, had long been lured to Tangier when Gertrude Stein famously suggested he move there from Paris. Paul Bowles was gay, and Jane was a lesbian. Their marriage made a lot of sense back then. In Tangier, they discovered the ideal place to be themselves. They dominated Tangier’s art scene for years, attracting Tennessee Williams, William Burroughs, Jack Kerouac, and Truman Capote. They reigned supreme over the LGBTQ+ scene in Tangier’s International Zone.
David Herbert, a British socialite and writer who spent nearly fifty years in Morocco, competed with the Bowles for the top spot on the Tangier social scene. The Honourable David Reginald Herbert was referred to as ‘the Queen of Tangier’ by author Ian Fleming, and for those travelers wanting to revisit some history, a stroll through the churchyard of St Andrews Church alongside the medina in Tangier will find his grave simply marked with the words “he loved Morocco”.
Yves Saint-Laurent (yep, that YSL) and his colleague Pierre Bergé saved the Majorelle Garden in Marrakech from destruction. Over the latter half of the twentieth century, Yves and Pierre were one of Morocco’s great power couples. They were well received not just by the people of Marrakesh, but also by the royal palace. In 2010, the roadway in front of Jardin Majorelle’s entrance was renamed Rue Yves Saint Laurent as a tiny tribute to his contributions. Her Royal Highness, Princess Lalla Salma, was present to unveil the new street sign.
Abdellah Taïa, a writer, director, and actor, is a well-known and visible gay male in Morocco. He has a variety of books that are worth reading for people interested in delving further into Moroccan culture while traveling; his book An Arab Melancholia is a coming-of-age story about an impoverished youngster who dreams of the cinema and fights to define his sexuality in the face of a homophobic society.
Rachid O is another Moroccan novelist whose works explore the relationship between sexuality and Muslim culture. Chocolat Chaud tells the story of a Moroccan guy seeking his sexual identity in France. It is worth noting that Rachid O and Abdellah Taia have opted to live in France.
Morocco’s Gay Travel Destinations
With the French rediscovering this Mediterranean treasure and a lot of work being done on projects throughout the city to restore it to its jet-setting, Barbara Hutton-era splendor, Tangier is still more of a “up and coming” destination. Although there is a small LGBT expat community here, it seems like you’re either a bit late—or perhaps a little too early—for the party.
Meanwhile, Marrakesh is the evident hub of all expat LBGTQ+ activities in Morocco. Of course, prominent people have lived in Marrakesh for a long time, like Yves Saint-Laurent. Marrakesh is a creative and multicultural city with tourism at its center, and particular bars and clubs tend to attract a diverse population.
While coastal destinations such as Agadir and Essaouira lack a formal homosexual scene, the beaches and sunshine attract a sizable European LGBT population. Moving out of the more metropolitan areas and into the mountains and desert, you will encounter communities that are more conservative, yet nevertheless tolerant.
LGBTQ+ Morocco: Acceptance
Though LGBTQ+ people are not uncommon in Morocco, Moroccans nonetheless expect men and women to marry and have children. Not doing so would be rare. This is one of the challenges that LGBT visitors may encounter when engaging with locals. Still, same-sex couples staying in large hotel chains or foreign-owned riads in towns such as Marrakesh should have no problems because they are accustomed to and accepting of a wide range of tourists.
Hand-holding between males is typical in many non-Western cultures, although it only signals male friendliness. So, if you see this, don’t make any instant assumptions. It is also possible that you may not see this as frequently in more populated regions. Many Moroccans are aware that in the Western world, two men holding hands are commonly interpreted as a pair, and Moroccans seek to avoid this presumption.
The podcast AfroQueer explores what it means to be queer and African in a series of talks that take you on a tour around the continent, providing an interesting slice-of-life perspective on Queer Morocco with all of its inconsistencies. Listen to Season 3, Episode 1: One Night in Marrakech.
Outlook for LGBTQ + Gay tourists in Morocco
The prospects for LGBTQ+ equality in Morocco remain grim. Traditional values and a strict religious culture suggest that it will be a long time before the Maghreb catches up with Western standards of LGBTQ+ acceptance. There is presently no law in Morocco that prohibits discrimination or harassment based on sexual orientation or gender identity.
Kif-Kif, an Amazigh term meaning “same,” is one LGBTQ+ Moroccan rights group worth highlighting. In addition to supporting LGBT rights in Morocco and Spain, Kif-Kif—also known as The Association of Lesbians, Gays, Transsexuals, and Bisexuals of Morocco—is registered and operated from Spain for legal reasons. Another Rabat-based Moroccan organization, M.A.L.I., has a broad agenda that combats discrimination in general and LGBTQ+ rights in particular, even though it places a heavy emphasis on women’s rights and sexual discrimination.
Morocco’s culture and laws may not yet align with those of the neighboring Western world, as religious and familial traditions are deeply ingrained. Nonetheless, Morocco continues to entice the LGBT community as a fantastic and exotic vacation. LGBTQ+ visitors who desire to visit Morocco should take caution, but they may be certain that it is a wonderful location with plenty to do and experience.
Begin planning your gay travel in Morocco today with Sahara Morocco Travel. We can tailor your experience to your preferences and address any issues you may have. Our on-site personnel is knowledgeable about local culture and can provide you with the greatest experience while also providing advise and a tour of Morocco that you will not soon forget! Contact us now to get started!
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