Hassan II Mosque dress code: what to wear

The basic rule: shoulders and knees covered

The dress code is the same for men and women, and it is enforced strictly at the entrance by the guide who may refuse a visitor whose outfit is not considered respectful. The rule boils down to two conditions: shoulders must be covered (no sleeveless shirts or tank tops), and knees must be too (no shorts or mini skirts). The rest is free.

For women: no veil required

Here is the specificity that surprises all travellers: Hassan II Mosque does not ask non-Muslim women visitors to cover their hair. This was a personal decision by King Hassan II to make the monument accessible to the greatest number. You can of course wear a scarf if you wish out of respect, but it is not mandatory. This is very different from the dress code of other emblematic mosques such as the Blue Mosque of Istanbul or the Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque of Abu Dhabi, which require a veil and even provide abayas at the entrance.

For the rest: trousers, long skirt, dress below the knee. Avoid transparent, overly tight, or low-cut clothing. A basic short-sleeve t-shirt works perfectly. If you travel in summer and wear a thin-strap summer dress, plan a scarf or cardigan to drape over the shoulders for the visit (then remove on exit).

For men

Bermuda shorts are forbidden even above the knee. Choose long trousers or cargo shorts going below the knee. Shirts and t-shirts are OK as long as they have sleeves (even short). No singlets or sleeveless tops. Feet covered by closed shoes or sandals (you will remove them at the entrance anyway).

For children

Children under 6 are welcomed with no clothing restriction (free entry as well). From 6, the same rule as for adults applies: shoulders and knees covered. In practice, guides are more tolerant with young children in summer shorts, but it is at the guide's discretion. If you visit with a baby, bring a baby carrier rather than a stroller (the prayer hall is not adapted to strollers).

Shoes: to be removed at the entrance

You will remove your shoes just before entering the prayer hall. The guide provides a numbered plastic bag to carry them throughout the visit. This is important: the prayer hall, ablutions room and hammam are all accessible barefoot, on cold marble in winter. Bring socks if you are sensitive to cold. Avoid white tights or thin stockings that would tear.

What is strictly forbidden during the visit

• Eating and drinking in all rooms of the mosque. You can drink water on the outer esplanade.
• Smoking. Tobacco, e-cigarette, hookah: everything is forbidden throughout the complex.
• Phone calls. Put your phone on silent. Calls (even on vibrate) disturb other visitors and the guide.
• Touching the artworks (zelliges, sculpted plaster, wood carvings). These ornaments are fragile and hand-restored.
• Wandering from the group. You must follow the guide throughout the visit, not explore freely.

What if I am refused entry for my outfit?

If the guide judges your outfit non-compliant, you will be asked to wait in the entry hall while other visitors enter. You can go back to your hotel to change, but you will lose your slot and have to buy another (or wait for the next one). Simpler: the box office has a small shop selling pareos and shawls for 50-80 MAD, perfect for covering shoulders and legs in a hurry.