Moroccan Culture & Language

TEFL Trainees / ESL Teachers

Tips for students of TEFL course in Morocco:

Morocco is a multi-ethnic country with influence of various civilizations, religions and cultures. The people are extremely amiable and warm in this country. Traditions and customs of Morocco are still well preserved and western influence is very less here. Morocco has influence of both Arabic and Berber culture and Islam is its main religion.

Family is the center of life of the people of Morocco and everyone is considered to be the part of the family. There are both nuclear and extended families in Morocco and elders in the family are given immense respect.

Handshakes are common greeting etiquette among same sex. Handshake between a male and female are not very common. Kissing on both cheeks among friends and relatives are common. It is important to say good bye individually before leaving. When invited for lunch or dinner the common forms of gifts brought are sweet pastries, figs, nuts, flowers and dates. Alcohol is not a very common gift to bring unlike Europe.

While entering a Moroccan house you should open your shoes. It is important to greet everyone at the party individually. In conservative Moroccan homes there are no mixed- sex parties so it is important to check whether your spouse is invited. Food is mostly served in a communal bowl and you should not start eating before host blesses the food. Washing basins are brought to the table before and after the meal. Do not use your left hand while eating in Morocco.

Morocco is not a very liberal country and women are not as independent as in the west. Women should cover themselves up to the knee and should not wear sleeveless blouse.

Language of Morocco:
Arabic is the official language of Morocco and distinctive dialect of this country is called Moroccan Arabic or Darija. French is the second language of Morocco as this country was the French territory. English and Spanish is also commonly spoken around the country. During the TESOL Course in Morocco, the candidates will get a chance to learn Arabic. If anyone aspires to get an ESL job in the Middle East knowledge of Basic Arabic is very important.