Despite the increasing prevalence of e-commerce and online payments in Morocco, cash continues to be the primary payment method, mainly driven by a substantial unbanked population, cultural preferences favoring cash transactions, and challenges in accessing digital payment infrastructure. Approximately 60% of Moroccan adults are unbanked, relying on cash for financial transactions. The cultural and historical significance of cash in the country further reinforces its popularity, as it is perceived as a tangible and secure form of payment. Additionally, limited access to digital payment infrastructure, particularly in rural areas lacking reliable internet connections, contributes to the prevalence of cash transactions. Despite these obstacles, the Moroccan government and financial institutions are actively working to enhance financial inclusion and encourage digital payment adoption through initiatives like mobile banking and mobile money services, signaling potential for future growth in digital payments in the country.
Popular offline payment methods in Morocco
Cash
Bank Transfers
Cheques
Postal Money Orders
Mobile Payments
Point of Sales (POS) Terminals
List of payment methods in Morocco
Visa is extensively accepted for payments in Morocco, particularly in tourist-centric establishments like hotels, restaurants, and shops, with broad usage in major cities such as Marrakech and Casablanca. To utilize Visa in the country, travelers must possess a Visa card issued by a bank or financial institution and inform their bank about their travel plans to ensure smooth transactions. When using Visa, identification like a passport or driver’s license may be required, and some places may request a PIN for added security. Although Visa is widely embraced, it’s advised to carry local currency (Moroccan dirham) as there might be instances, particularly in smaller businesses or rural areas, where cash remains the preferred payment method. Overall, Visa offers a convenient and widely accepted payment option in Morocco, facilitating seamless transactions for travelers throughout their stay.
Mastercard is a widely accepted payment method throughout Morocco, with most hotels, restaurants, shops, and online retailers accepting it. Many ATMs also allow for cash withdrawals using Mastercard. However, it is advisable to carry some cash as not all establishments may accept card payments. Furthermore, it is recommended to inform your bank or credit card provider of your travel plans to Morocco to avoid any potential issues when using your Mastercard abroad.
American Express is accepted as a payment method in Morocco, but it may not be as widely accepted as Visa or Mastercard. It is recommended to carry an alternative payment method, such as a Visa or Mastercard, in case American Express is not accepted at certain establishments. It is also advisable to inform your bank or credit card company of your travel plans to Morocco to avoid any issues with using your card abroad.
Diners Club is accepted as a payment method in Morocco. It is one of the major international credit card networks and is widely accepted at hotels, restaurants, and shops in the country. However, it is always a good idea to check with the specific establishment beforehand to ensure that they accept Diners Club as a form of payment.
Discover cards are not widely accepted in Morocco. Visa and Mastercard are the most commonly accepted credit cards in the country. It is recommended to carry alternative payment methods, such as cash or a Visa/Mastercard, when traveling to Morocco.
JCB, or Japan Credit Bureau, is not extensively utilized as a payment method, unlike in many other countries where it is popular. The country predominantly relies on the Moroccan dirham (MAD) as its currency, with cash and major credit cards like Visa and Mastercard being widely accepted by most businesses. Although some establishments in Morocco may accept JCB, it is not as prevalent as other payment options. Travelers planning to use JCB are advised to carry alternative forms of payment, such as cash or internationally recognized credit cards. Prior confirmation with specific businesses is recommended to ensure they accept JCB, as its usage is not widespread and may vary across establishments in the country. Overall, while JCB may have limited acceptance in certain places in Morocco, it is not a commonly recognized or utilized primary payment method in the country.
UnionPay is a highly prevalent payment option in Morocco, accepted at various major retailers, hotels, restaurants, and establishments that support credit card transactions, both online and offline. To utilize UnionPay in Morocco, individuals must possess a UnionPay card issued by an affiliated bank, and transactions can be conducted at any point of sale terminal displaying the UnionPay logo. The payment process typically involves entering a PIN, with some places requiring additional identification like a passport or driver’s license. Although UnionPay is widely embraced, there might be exceptions among smaller vendors, prompting the recommendation to carry cash or alternative methods like Visa or Mastercard. Overall, UnionPay proves to be a convenient and widely accepted payment method in Morocco, appealing to both locals and tourists alike.
Mobiamo is a mobile payment platform operating in Morocco, enabling users to make purchases and payments through their mobile phones. To use Mobiamo, individuals must have a mobile phone with a SIM card from a supported network operator and create an account on the Mobiamo website or app. Once registered, users can link their mobile numbers to their Mobiamo accounts and select the platform as a payment option at participating merchants. Payments are confirmed through an SMS verification code, deducting the amount from the user’s mobile phone balance or adding it to their monthly phone bill, depending on the network operator. Mobiamo supports multiple payment methods, such as credit cards, debit cards, and carrier billing, offering a secure and convenient solution for a variety of services and products in Morocco.
Onecard is a prepaid payment method in Morocco, offering a secure and convenient alternative to traditional banking and credit cards. Users purchase the card with a specific amount loaded onto it, which can be used until the balance is exhausted. Accepted at various merchants, both online and in physical stores, Onecard simplifies transactions by presenting the card at the point of sale. It enhances security by eliminating the need for personal or financial information during purchases, reducing the risk of fraud or identity theft. The card can be easily reloaded at authorized retailers or online, providing flexibility for users. Overall, Onecard serves as a reliable and adaptable solution for making purchases in Morocco, catering to the growing demand for efficient and secure payment options.
NeoSurf is a popular prepaid card payment method widely embraced in Morocco, allowing users to conduct online transactions without the necessity of a bank account or credit card. Available for purchase at authorized retailers or online platforms, the NeoSurf card features a unique 10-digit code enabling payments on websites that accept NeoSurf. To utilize this method, users select NeoSurf at the checkout, input the 10-digit code, and confirm the payment, deducting the amount from the card balance. Suitable for various online purchases, including gaming and e-commerce, NeoSurf ensures secure transactions without divulging personal or financial details. Users should be mindful of card expiration dates and potential fees on certain websites. Overall, NeoSurf provides a reliable and convenient payment option in Morocco, combining accessibility and security for online transactions.
Ticket Premium is a prepaid payment solution available in Morocco, offering a convenient method for transactions without the need for a bank account or credit card. Purchased as a voucher from various retail locations, including supermarkets and online platforms, it contains a unique code that users input when making online purchases or transactions at participating merchants. The voucher’s credited amount is deducted upon validation, facilitating secure payments for a range of services such as gaming, entertainment, and e-commerce. Users should be mindful of the vouchers’ expiration dates and check for specific terms imposed by merchants. In essence, Ticket Premium serves as an accessible alternative for individuals in Morocco who prefer non-traditional banking methods or credit cards.
MINT is a popular payment method in Morocco, offering users a secure and convenient way to make online purchases and payments through their mobile phones, eliminating the need for a credit card or bank account. To use MINT, individuals can purchase vouchers of different denominations from authorized resellers or the MINT website, which can then be used to top up their MINT accounts. Once the account is loaded, users can seamlessly make payments on diverse online platforms by selecting MINT as their preferred option during checkout. Widely accepted by e-commerce sites, online gaming platforms, and digital content providers, MINT has also formed partnerships with some physical stores and businesses in Morocco. A key advantage of MINT is its accessibility, as it caters to individuals without access to traditional banking services, offering a broad user base a secure and straightforward means of conducting online transactions. Overall, MINT stands out as a convenient and widely accepted payment solution in Morocco, providing accessibility to a diverse range of users.
