Darija for Bargaining

How to Negotiate Prices Like a Local

Moroccan souks and markets are full of colors, energy, and excitement — but also full of negotiation!
In Morocco, bargaining (mfassal) is a cultural tradition, especially in souks, artisanal shops, and street markets.

Whether you’re buying a carpet, spices, or a handmade lamp, knowing a few Darija phrases can save you money and make shopping more fun.

1. When You Should Bargain

Bargaining is common and expected in many situations:

✅ Souks & open markets – always negotiate.
✅ Artisan shops & tourist areas – prices are usually flexible.
✅ Street vendors – bargaining is part of the experience.

❌ Supermarkets & malls – fixed prices.
❌ Restaurants & cafés – no bargaining here.

💡 Pro Tip: Start at 40–50% of the initial price and work your way up.

2. Essential Darija Phrases for Bargaining

Here are the must-know expressions to sound confident and polite:

• Sh7al hada/hadi?
  Meaning: How much is this?

• Bezaf! / Ghali
  Meaning: That’s too expensive!

• N9as shwiya, 3afak.
  Meaning: Lower the price a little, please.

• Shi taman mazyan.
  Meaning: Give me a good price.

• Ana baghi nashri.
  Meaning: I’m a serious buyer.

• Ash nahow taman lkhar?
  Meaning: What’s your final price?

• Mashi moshkil.
  Meaning: No problem (used when agreeing on a price).

• Safi, khodha.
  Meaning: Okay, I’ll take it.

3. Real-Life Dialogues

Dialogue 1 — Buying Spices in Marrakech Souk

• You: Sh7al had lbzar?
  (How much for this pepper?)

• Vendor: 100 dirham.
  (100 dirhams.)

• You: Bezaf! 40 dirham.
  (Too much! I’ll give 40 dirhams.)

• Vendor: La, 80 dirham.
  (No, 80 dirhams.)

• You: Shi taman mazyan, 50 dirham.
  (Give me a good price, 50 dirhams.)

• Vendor: Ok, safi, 50 dirham.
  (Alright, 50 dirhams.)

Dialogue 2 — Negotiating for a Carpet

• You: Hadi bsh7al?
  (How much for this?)

• Vendor: 2000 dirham.
  (2000 dirhams.)

• You: Bezaf! Ana nkhalas 1200 dirham.
  (Too expensive! I’ll pay 1200 dirhams.)

• Vendor: Mashi mumkin, hadi artisanal.
  (Impossible, this is handmade.)

• You: Ok, akhir taman: 1500 dirham.
  (Okay, last offer: 1500 dirhams.)

• Vendor: Safi, 1500 dirham.
  (Deal, 1500 dirhams.)

4. Bargaining Tips & Cultural Insights

• Be polite → Bargaining is like a game, smile and stay friendly.

• Start low → Offer half the price, then slowly go up.

• Show interest, but not too much → If you seem desperate, you’ll pay more.

• Walk away if needed → Many vendors will call you back with a better price.

• Learn to read body language → A smile from the seller often means there’s room to negotiate.

• Cash works better → Always carry small bills and coins.

5. Quick Vocabulary Cheat Sheet

Practice Your Darija While Shopping

Bargaining is one of the best ways to connect with Moroccans and practice your Darija. It’s fun, cultural, and part of everyday life — so don’t be shy to try!

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