Morocco facts for kids
Quick facts for kids
Kingdom of Morocco
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Motto: ٱللَّٰه، ٱلْوَطَن، ٱلْمَلِك
"Allāh, al-Waṭan, al-Malik" "God, Country, King" |
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Anthem: ٱلنَّشِيْد ٱلْوَطَنِي
"an-Našīd al-Waṭanīy" "Cherifian Anthem" |
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Location of Morocco in northwest Africa
Undisputed territory of Morocco Western Sahara, a territory claimed and occupied mostly by Morocco as its Southern Provinces |
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| Capital | Rabat 34°02′N 6°51′W / 34.033°N 6.850°W |
| Largest city | Casablanca 33°32′N 7°35′W / 33.533°N 7.583°W |
| Official languages |
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| Spoken languages (2024) |
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| Foreign languages | |
| Ethnic groups | See Ethnic groups |
| Religion
(2020)
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| Demonym(s) | Moroccan |
| Government | Unitary parliamentary semi-constitutional monarchy |
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• King
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Mohammed VI |
| Aziz Akhannouch | |
| Legislature | Parliament |
| House of Councillors | |
| House of Representatives | |
| Establishment | |
| 788 | |
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• 'Alawi dynasty (current dynasty)
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1631 |
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• Protectorate established
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30 March 1912 |
| 7 April 1956 | |
| Area | |
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• Total
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446,550 km2 (172,410 sq mi) (57th) |
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• Water (%)
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0.056 (250 km2) |
| Population | |
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• 2024 estimate
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37,493,183 (38th) |
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• 2024 census
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36,828,330 |
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• Density
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79.0/km2 (204.6/sq mi) |
| GDP (PPP) | 2024 estimate |
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• Total
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 $396.685 billion (56th) |
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• Per capita
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$10,615 (120th) |
| GDP (nominal) | 2024 estimate |
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• Total
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$157.087 billion (61st) |
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• Per capita
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$4,203 (124th) |
| Gini (2015) | 40.3 medium |
| HDI (2022) | 0.698 medium · 120th |
| Currency | Moroccan dirham (MAD) |
| Time zone | UTC
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| Driving side | right |
| Calling code | +212 |
| ISO 3166 code | MA |
| Internet TLD |
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Morocco is a country in North Africa, located in a region called the Maghreb. It has a long coastline along the Atlantic Ocean and the Mediterranean Sea. Morocco is also known for its rugged mountains and large desert areas.
More than 33.8 million people live in Morocco. The country covers an area of about 446,550 square kilometers (172,410 sq mi). Its capital city is Rabat, and the largest city is Casablanca. Other big cities include Marrakesh, Tangier, Tetouan, Salé, Fes, Agadir, Meknes, Oujda, Kenitra, and Nador.
Morocco claims a territory called Western Sahara as its own, calling it the "Southern Provinces." Morocco took control of this land in 1975. This led to a conflict with local forces, which ended with a cease-fire in 1991. Talks to find a lasting peace are still ongoing.
Morocco is a constitutional monarchy, which means it has a king and an elected parliament. The King of Morocco has a lot of power, especially over the military, foreign policy, and religious matters. The government handles daily operations, and the parliament makes laws. The king can also issue special orders that act as laws.
The main religion in Morocco is Islam. The official languages are Arabic and Tamazight. Many people also speak a local Arabic dialect called Darija and French. Morocco is a member of important groups like the Arab League and the African Union. It has one of the largest economies in Africa.
Contents
What's in a Name? The Meaning of Morocco
The name "Morocco" in English comes from the Spanish word Marruecos. This name is linked to the city of Marrakesh, which was once a capital city for powerful dynasties.
The city of Marrakesh was founded with a Berber name, Tāmurākušt, which means "land of God." The English name "Morocco" might have been influenced by the word "Moor."
Morocco's Journey Through History
Morocco has a long and rich history. The first Moroccan state was formed in 789 by Idris I. After that, different ruling families, called dynasties, took charge. The country was very powerful under the Almoravid dynasty and Almohad Caliphate, controlling parts of Spain and Northwest Africa.
Later dynasties, like the Marinids and Saadis, fought to keep Morocco independent. Morocco was the only North African country that was not taken over by the Ottoman Empire. The current ruling family, the Alaouite dynasty, came to power in 1666.
In 1912, Morocco was divided into French and Spanish protectorates, with Tangier becoming an international zone. Morocco finally gained its independence in 1956. Moroccan culture is a mix of Arab, Berber, Sub-Saharan African, and European influences.
How Morocco is Governed
Morocco is a constitutional monarchy. This means the King, Mohammed VI, shares power with the Head of Government. The King is the head of state and plays a very important role in the country.
Moroccan citizens vote for people to represent them in Parliament. These representatives help create laws. The Council of Ministers makes important decisions for the country.
The King's Role in Government
The Constitution of Morocco gives the King special powers. He is seen as both a political leader and a religious one, as he is a direct descendant of the Prophet Mohammed. The King leads the Council of Ministers. He chooses the Prime Minister from the political party that wins the most seats in elections. The Prime Minister then suggests other government members to the King.
The King is also the commander-in-chief of the armed forces. He can issue special orders that become law. He can also dissolve the Parliament and call for new elections after talking with the Prime Minister and the Constitutional court.
How Laws are Made: The Parliament
Morocco's Parliament has two parts, or chambers. The Assembly of Representatives of Morocco has 395 members. They are elected by the people for a five-year term.
The Assembly of Councillors has 120 members, elected for a six-year term. These members come from different groups, including regions, trade unions, and professional organizations.
The Parliament's job is to discuss the country's budget, approve new laws, and question government ministers. The lower chamber of Parliament can even remove the government through a vote if they lose confidence in it.
Morocco's Regions: How the Country is Divided
Morocco is divided into 12 main areas called regions. These regions are then split into smaller areas called provinces and prefectures.
The 12 regions are:
- Tanger-Tetouan-Al Hoceima
- Oriental
- Fès-Meknès
- Rabat-Salé-Kénitra
- Béni Mellal-Khénifra
- Casablanca-Settat
- Marrakesh-Safi
- Drâa-Tafilalet
- Souss-Massa
- Guelmim-Oued Noun
- Laâyoune-Sakia El Hamra
- Dakhla-Oued Ed-Dahab
The Land of Morocco: Geography and Climate
Morocco has a diverse landscape. It has a long coast along the Atlantic Ocean and the Mediterranean Sea. The Strait of Gibraltar separates Morocco from Spain to the north. Morocco also shares land borders with Algeria to the east. Since Morocco controls most of Western Sahara, its southern border is with Mauritania.
Much of Morocco is mountainous. The Atlas Mountains run through the center and south of the country. The Rif Mountains are in the north. Both mountain ranges are home to many Berber people. Morocco's total area is about 446,300 square kilometers (172,300 sq mi).
The southeastern part of Morocco is mostly Sahara Desert. This area is generally dry and has fewer people. Most of Morocco's population lives north of these mountains, where the land is more fertile.
Rabat is the capital city, and Casablanca is the largest city and main port. Other major cities include Fez, Marrakesh, Meknes, Salé, and Tangier.
Morocco's Diverse Climate Zones
Morocco has a variety of climates, mainly "hot summer Mediterranean" and "hot desert." The central mountain ranges and the cool Canary Current off the Atlantic coast create different plant zones. These range from thick forests in the mountains to dry, desert areas in the east and south. Coastal areas have moderate temperatures, even in summer.
In the Rif and Atlas Mountains, you can find different climates. Coastal lowlands have a Mediterranean climate. Higher up, it's more humid and temperate, allowing for forests of oak, juniper, and Atlantic fir trees. Cloud forests grow in the western Rif and Middle Atlas Mountains. At the highest points, the climate is alpine, cold enough for ski resorts.
Southeast of the Atlas mountains, near Algeria, the climate becomes very dry with long, hot summers. This is because the mountains block rain from reaching this area. The southernmost parts of Morocco are very hot and include parts of the Sahara desert, with vast sand dunes and rocky plains, dotted with green oases.
The coastal plains in the central and northern parts of the country are fertile. This is where most of Morocco's agriculture happens, and 95% of the population lives here. Morocco's location near the Atlantic Ocean, Europe, and its long mountain ranges give it a climate similar to parts of Europe in the north.
- Mediterranean Climate: This climate is found along the Mediterranean coast and some Atlantic coastal areas. Summers are hot and dry, with average highs around 29°C to 32°C (84°F to 90°F). Winters are mild and wet, with average daily temperatures around 9°C to 11°C (48°F to 52°F). Cities like Tangier and Tetouan have this climate.
- Sub-Mediterranean Climate: This climate is influenced by both Mediterranean and other factors like elevation or the Atlantic Ocean.
- Oceanic Influence: Cooler summers, with highs around 27°C (81°F). Winters are chilly to mild and wet. Cities like Rabat and Casablanca have this climate.
- Continental Influence: Hotter summers and colder winters than typical Mediterranean areas. Summer highs can reach 40°C (104°F) during heat waves, but nights are cooler. Winters are colder, sometimes dropping below freezing. Cities like Fès and Meknès experience this.
- Continental Climate: This is found in the mountainous regions of the north and center. Summers are hot to very hot, and winters are cold with frequent snow. Temperatures can drop below -5°C (23°F) during cold spells. Cities like Khenifra are in this zone.
- Alpine Climate: Found in parts of the Middle and High Atlas Mountains. Summers are warm, and winters are long, cold, and snowy. There are many ski resorts here. Cities like Ifrane have this climate.
- Semi-arid Climate: This climate is in the south and parts of the east, with less rainfall. However, it still has some Mediterranean features. Cities like Agadir and Marrakesh are in this zone.
South of Agadir and east of Jerada, the climate becomes arid and desert-like. Morocco's closeness to the Sahara and the Atlantic Ocean means it can experience sudden heatwaves or cold spells, but these usually last only a few days.
Amazing Wildlife: Morocco's Biodiversity
Morocco is home to a wide variety of plants and animals. It's part of the Mediterranean Basin, an area with many unique species. However, many of these species are losing their natural homes, making this area important for conservation. Morocco has 454 different types of birds.
The Barbary lion, a type of lion that used to live in Morocco, is now extinct in the wild. It is a national symbol. The last wild Barbary lion was seen in the Atlas Mountains in 1922. Other predators like the Atlas bear are extinct, and the Barbary leopard is critically endangered. Crocodiles used to live in the Draa river until the 20th century.
The Barbary macaque, a type of monkey found only in Morocco and Algeria, is also in danger. Its numbers are decreasing because of human activities like trade, city growth, and cutting down forests, which destroy their habitat.
Trading animals and plants for food, pets, medicine, or souvenirs is common in Morocco, even though many of these activities are illegal. This unregulated trade harms wild populations. Many species, like cacti, tortoises, and valuable birds, are taken from Morocco and sold, often to Europe.
Morocco has six different types of natural environments, including forests, dry woodlands, and steppes. About 12% of the country is covered by forests, and 18% is farmland.
Morocco's Economy: How People Make a Living
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Agriculture is a big part of Morocco's economy, making up about 14% of its total wealth. It employs 40-45% of the working population. However, because of the dry climate and limited irrigation, it can be challenging to grow enough crops.
Morocco's main economic resources are farming, phosphates, and tourism. Selling fish and seafood is also important. Industry and mining contribute about one-third of the country's annual wealth. Morocco is the world's third-largest producer of phosphates, after China and the United States. The price of phosphates in the global market greatly affects Morocco's economy.
Tourism is one of the most important parts of Morocco's economy. It is well-developed, focusing on the country's coast, culture, and history. In 2019, Morocco welcomed over 13 million tourists. Tourism is the second-largest source of foreign money for Morocco, after the phosphate industry.
More and more, tourism in Morocco focuses on its rich culture, especially its ancient cities. The modern tourism industry highlights Morocco's old Islamic sites, its beautiful landscapes, and its cultural history. About 60% of tourists visit Morocco for its culture and heritage.
People and Languages of Morocco
Morocco has a population of around 37.5 million people (2024 estimate). In 1960, the population was much smaller, at 11.6 million. In 2014, there were about 84,000 immigrants in Morocco. Most of these came from France, West African countries, and Algeria. There are also some Spanish residents, including descendants of colonial settlers and those married to Moroccans.
Morocco has a large number of its citizens living abroad, known as the Moroccan diaspora. Most of them live in France, with over one million Moroccans up to the third generation. Large Moroccan communities also live in Spain (about 700,000), the Netherlands (360,000), and Belgium (300,000). Other significant communities are in Italy, Canada, the United States, and Israel.
Ethnic Groups in Morocco
In Morocco, a person's ethnic background is closely tied to their language and culture. The population mainly consists of two large groups: Arabs and Berbers. However, the country's statistics office does not collect data on ethnic groups. This is because it has historically been hard to tell the difference between Arabs and Berbers, even among those who speak Berber languages.
Arabs make up the largest group, between 65% and 80% of the population. The native Berbers, also known as Amazigh, are estimated to be between 30% and 35% of the population. Berbers are usually divided into three main groups based on their dialects. These groups live in rural mountain areas: the Rifians in the Rif, the Zayanes in the Middle Atlas, and the Shilha people in the Anti-Atlas.
Since the 7th century, many Arab migrants came from the Arabian Peninsula. This has helped shape Morocco's population, culture, and genetics. Also, a good number of people are Haratin, Sahrawis, and Gnawa. These are descendants of people from West Africa or mixed-race enslaved people. There are also Moriscos, who were European Muslims forced out of Spain and Portugal in the 17th century.
Languages Spoken in Morocco
Morocco's official languages are Arabic and Berber. The unique group of Moroccan Arabic dialects is called Darija. About 92.7% of the population can speak Arabic.
Berber languages are spoken by 24.8% of the population. There are three main Berber dialects: Tarifit (spoken by 3.2%), Tashelhit (spoken by 14.2%), and Central Atlas Tamazight (spoken by 7.4%). In 2024, almost all literate Moroccans (99.2%) could read and write in Arabic, while 1.5% could read and write in Berber. The census also showed that 80.6% of Moroccans consider Arabic their native language, and 18.9% consider a Berber language their mother tongue.
French is widely used in government, media, large businesses, and international trade. It is also often used in international discussions. French is a required language in all schools in Morocco.
Moroccan Culture: A Rich Blend
Morocco has a very rich culture and history. Over time, many different groups of people have lived in Morocco. Each group has influenced the country's social structure and traditions.
Since gaining independence, Morocco has seen a boom in painting, sculpture, popular music, theater, and filmmaking. The Moroccan National Theatre, founded in 1956, regularly shows Moroccan and French plays. Art and music festivals happen across the country in the summer, like the World Sacred Music Festival at Fès.
Every region in Morocco has its own special features, adding to the national culture and heritage. Morocco makes it a top priority to protect its diverse history and cultural treasures.
Moroccan culture has successfully blended its Arabic, Berber, and Jewish heritage with outside influences. These include French and Spanish traditions, and more recently, Anglo-American lifestyles.
Moroccan Literature: Stories and Poems
Moroccan literature is mainly written in Arabic, Berber, Hebrew, and French. In the past, especially during the Almoravid and Almohad empires, Moroccan literature was very similar to the literature of al-Andalus (Islamic Spain). They shared poetic forms like zajal and muwashshah. Religious works, such as interpretations of the Quran, were also very important. The University of al-Qarawiyyin in Fes was a major center for learning, attracting scholars from many places.
During the Almohad dynasty, Morocco became a center of learning and prosperity. The Almohads built the Kutubiyya Mosque in Marrakesh, which was famous for its many books, manuscripts, and libraries. The Almohad Caliph Abu Yakub loved collecting books and created a large public library.
Modern Moroccan literature began in the 1930s. Being a French and Spanish protectorate allowed Moroccan thinkers to share ideas and create literary works more freely. Three generations of writers shaped 20th-century Moroccan literature. The first wrote during the Protectorate (1912–56), with Mohammed Ben Brahim as a key figure.
The second generation played a big role in the transition to independence, including writers like Abdelkrim Ghallab and Allal al-Fassi. The third generation, from the 1960s, saw Moroccan literature truly flourish with writers such as Mohamed Choukri, Driss Chraïbi, and Tahar Ben Jelloun. These writers greatly influenced many Moroccan novelists, poets, and playwrights who came after them.
In the 1950s and 1960s, Morocco became a haven for artists and writers like Paul Bowles and William S. Burroughs. Oral literature, like storytelling and poetry, is also a very important part of Moroccan culture, whether in Moroccan Arabic or Berber.
Moroccan Music: Sounds of Tradition and Modernity
Moroccan music has roots in Arabic, Berber, and sub-Saharan African traditions. Rock-influenced chaabi bands are popular, as is trance music that comes from Islamic traditions.
Morocco is also home to Andalusian classical music, which is found across Northwest Africa. This music likely developed in Cordoba, Spain, and the musician Ziryab is often credited with creating it.
Aita is a Bedouin musical style sung in the countryside. Chaabi ("popular") music includes many different styles that come from Moroccan folk music. Chaabi was originally played in markets but is now heard at any celebration.
Popular Western music styles are becoming more common in Morocco. These include fusion, rock, country, metal, and especially hip hop.
Delicious Moroccan Cuisine
Moroccan food is known as one of the most diverse cuisines in the world. This is because Morocco has interacted with many different cultures over centuries. Moroccan cuisine is mainly a mix of Moorish, European, and Mediterranean cooking styles.
Spices are used a lot in Moroccan cooking. While many spices have been brought to Morocco for thousands of years, some ingredients are grown locally. These include saffron from Tiliouine, mint and olives from Meknes, and oranges and lemons from Fez. Chicken is the most commonly eaten meat in Morocco. Beef is also very popular, often cooked in a Tagine with vegetables. Lamb is preferred but can be expensive.
The most famous Moroccan dish is couscous, which is considered the national delicacy. Other well-known dishes include Pastilla (a savory pastry), Tajine (a slow-cooked stew), Tanjia (a meat dish cooked in a clay pot), and Harira (a soup). Harira is often served with dates, especially during the month of Ramadan. Eating pork is not allowed in Morocco due to Islamic religious laws.
Bread is a very important part of daily meals. Moroccan bread is mainly made from durum wheat semolina and is called khobz. Bakeries are common, and fresh bread is a staple in every city and village. The most common types are whole grain or white flour bread, as well as flatbreads.
The most popular drink is "atai," which is green tea with mint leaves and other ingredients. Tea is very important in Moroccan culture and is seen as an art form. It is served not only at meal times but throughout the day. It is especially a symbol of hospitality and is commonly offered to guests. It is considered impolite to refuse it.
Sports in Morocco
Football (soccer) is the most popular sport in Morocco, especially among young people in cities. In 1986, Morocco made history by becoming the first Arab and African country to reach the second round of the FIFA World Cup. Morocco hosted the Africa Cup of Nations in 1988 and will host it again in 2025. Morocco will also co-host the 2030 FIFA World Cup with Portugal and Spain. In the 2022 FIFA World Cup, Morocco became the first African and Arab team to reach the semifinals, finishing in 4th place.
At the 1984 Summer Olympics, two Moroccans won gold medals in track and field. Nawal El Moutawakel won the 400 meters hurdles, becoming the first woman from an Arab or Islamic country to win an Olympic gold medal. Saïd Aouita won the 5000 meters at the same games. Hicham El Guerrouj won gold medals for Morocco at the 2004 Summer Olympics in the 1500 meters and 5000 meters, and he holds several world records in the mile run.
Traditional spectator sports in Morocco used to focus on horsemanship. However, European sports like football, polo, swimming, and tennis became popular in the late 19th century. Tennis and golf are now widely enjoyed. Several Moroccan professional players compete internationally.
Morocco was one of the first African countries to have a competitive basketball league. Rugby arrived in Morocco in the early 20th century, mainly brought by the French. Moroccan rugby has often looked to Europe for inspiration.
Kickboxing is also popular in Morocco. Badr Hari, a Moroccan-Dutch heavyweight kickboxer, is a well-known martial artist and former K-1 heavyweight champion.
Images for kids
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Ptolemy of Mauretania was the last Berber ruler of the Kingdom of Mauretania before the Roman conquest.
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The ancient Roman ruins of Volubilis.
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al-Qarawiyyin, founded in Fes in the 9th century, was an important center for learning.
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The Almohad dynasty at its largest size around 1212.
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The remains of the 16th-century El Badi Palace built by the Saadi Sultan Ahmad al-Mansur.
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The Treaty of Wad Ras after the Hispano-Moroccan War (1859–1860).
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Tangier's population in 1873 included Muslims, Europeans, and Jews.
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The Proclamation of Independence of Morocco from 1944.
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The Mausoleum of Mohammed V, a modern Alaouite landmark in Rabat.
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Protestors in Casablanca demanding political reforms.
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Boulevard des FAR (Royal Armed Forces) in Casablanca.
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Al Boraq RGV2N2 high-speed train at Tanger Ville railway station in November 2018.
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Solar cell panels in eastern Morocco.
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Al Akhawayn University in Ifrane.
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Literacy Rate for Morocco's population above 15 years of age from 1980 to 2015.
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Leo Africanus, a famous Moroccan traveler and writer.
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See also
In Spanish: Marruecos para niños
