Cultural differences MOROCCO

Basics…

HOSTINGS The two or three refusals. Using the right hand is more appropriate Gifting It is very important to thank your host before leaving

Socializing Physical proximity Friday is the day of rest and family couscous day. "Yes" often means "Possibly". Never embarrass a Moroccan. "Saving face" is important

When interacting with close friends and family, this distance can diminish.   There is a fair amount of touching that goes on during conversations. Especially between people of the same gender. Note: It is taboo for religiously observant men to touch women and vice-versa.

Greetings Man greeting man Woman greeting woman Man greeting woman

Clothing Dress convenient Moroccans dress up as in any western country Girls are always very well put together (being sloppy could shame your family) and the boys are generally clean cut. About half of the girls will choose to wear a veil while the rest choose not to cover their heads. 

Timing Punctuality is not usually a virtue in Morocco, although some things do function on a strict time table. When inviting people, never expect them to come on time because it is more ethical to be late.

Business… Meetings: Arriving on time for meetings is important even though you may be kept waiting Good topics of dicussion: history,culture and culture Beginning with small talk helps establish a base for the relationship

Morocco is a hierarchical society Avoid hard selling and any sort of conflict or confrontation Gifts are not usually brought to a first business meeting.