🇬🇧 Is English Spoken in Morocco? (2025 Language Guide for Expats)
If you’re planning to move to Morocco in 2025, you might be wondering: Can I get by speaking only English? The short answer: Yes — in some places. This guide breaks down where English is spoken, how widely it’s understood, and what you can expect as a foreigner or digital nomad.
🗣️ Languages Spoken in Morocco
Morocco is a multilingual country. Here’s what you’ll hear:
| Language | Role |
|---|---|
| Arabic | Official language (Darija dialect) |
| Amazigh | Co-official (Tamazight, Tachelhit) |
| French | Widely used in business/government |
| English | Growing among youth and in tourism |
📍 Where Is English Spoken?
- 🏙️ Major cities like Casablanca, Marrakech, Rabat, Agadir
- 🏨 Tourist areas (hotels, riads, cafes)
- 🧑💼 Younger generation, students, and online workers
- 🧑🏫 Private schools, universities, and coworking spaces
❌ Where English May Not Work
- Rural towns or traditional neighborhoods
- Government offices or hospitals
- Local markets (souks)
- Taxi drivers or older Moroccans
📝 Tip: Use basic French or Darija for simple interactions like buying bread or asking for directions.
🔤 Do Moroccans Learn English?
Yes — English is growing in popularity:
- Introduced in public schools at age 12
- Widely taught in private schools
- Increasingly used in tech, tourism, and startups
- American & British cultural centers offer courses
🧠 Useful Words in Darija (Moroccan Arabic)
| English | Darija |
|---|---|
| Hello | Salam |
| Thank you | Shukran |
| Yes / No | Na’am / La |
| How much? | Bsh-hal? |
| I don’t speak Arabic | Ma-knt-hdrsh l-‘arabia |
🧭 Tips for Expats
✅ Use translation apps like Google Translate
✅ Learn basic Darija phrases for daily life
✅ Use French as a backup in banks or clinics
✅ Join local language exchanges in cities like Casablanca or Marrakech
