In Morocco, words aren’t everything! Gestures and facial expressions play a huge role in communication.
Whether you’re greeting friends, bargaining at the souk, or ordering tea at a café, understanding Moroccan body language will help you connect and avoid awkward situations.

In this guide, we’ll explore the most common Moroccan gestures, their meanings, and how to use them naturally.

1. The Famous Moroccan Hand Over Heart 

After shaking hands or greeting someone, Moroccans often place their right hand over their heart.

• Meaning: Respect & sincerity

• When to Use: After greetings or when thanking someone.

• Darija Tip: Pair it with “ Shukran bezaf ” (Thank you so much) for extra warmth.

2. The “ Come Here ” Hand Wave

In Morocco, the gesture for “ come here ” is the opposite of what many foreigners expect.

• How It’s Done: Palm facing down, fingers motioning towards yourself.

• Darija Phrase: “Aji hna” (Come here).

• Pro Tip: Don’t use the Western upward wave — it can confuse locals!

3. The “ Wait a Second ” Gesture

Raising your hand slightly with fingers together often means:

• Meaning: Wait, give me a moment.

• Common in: Markets, cafés, or when someone’s busy.

• Darija Phrase: “Sber chwya” (Wait a bit).

4. The “ No ” Head Tilt & Tongue Click

Instead of saying “ NO ” Moroccans often tilt their head back slightly and make a tongue-clicking sound (“tsk”).

• Meaning: No, thank you or Not interested.

• Darija Phrase: “ La, choukran ” (No, thank you).

• Pro Tip: Mastering this one will instantly make you blend in!

5. Kissing on the Cheeks

Cheek-kissing is a common greeting among close friends and family.

• How It Works:

  • Men: Usually shake hands + 1 or 2 kisses depending on closeness.

  • Women: Often 2 kisses on each cheek.

• Darija Greeting: “ Salam 3likom! ” (Peace be upon you).

• Pro Tip: Don’t initiate unless you’re sure the other person is comfortable.

6. The “ Money ” Gesture

Rubbing your thumb and fingers together is universally understood, but in Morocco it’s very common.

• Meaning: Price, cost, or money.

• Darija Phrase: “ Bsh7al hadi/hada? ” (How much is this?)

7. Hands Up When Bargaining

At Moroccan souks, sellers often raise both hands while saying “Last price!”

• Meaning: Final offer, no more discounts.

• Darija Phrase: “ Hada akhir taman! ” (This is the final price!)

Cultural Tips to Avoid Misunderstandings

✅ Always greet before asking questions — skipping greetings can seem rude.
✅ Avoid pointing with one finger — use your whole hand instead.
✅ Use your right hand for giving and receiving — the left is considered less polite.

Mini Dialogue Example

At the souk:

• You: “Bsh7al had sac?” (How much for this bag?)

• Vendor: (Raises both hands) “Hada akhir taman! 150 dirham.” (Final price! 150 dirhams.)

• You: (Hand over heart) “La, shukran. Ghali bezaf.” (No, thanks. Too expensive.)

Conclusion & Call-to-Action

• Mastering Moroccan body language will help you connect with locals and navigate daily life more smoothly.
  Next time you visit Morocco, try using these gestures — you’ll blend in like a pro!
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