Scam in MoroccoOn the street
Closed street or closed attraction claims in Morocco
How it works
Someone says a road, hotel or attraction is closed, under construction, a prayer area or off limits to tourists. They offer another route to a business with inflated prices. In Marrakech, the detour may lead into a quiet alley for a robbery.
Warning signs
- A stranger announces a closure without being asked.
- They immediately offer another route or business.
- They insist that your map or GPS will not work.
How to avoid it
- Check the route yourself.
- Contact your accommodation directly about access.
- Do not follow the person into a quiet alley.
If it happens to you
Return to a busy street. If threatened, give priority to getting away safely and seek police help.
- Get to a safe, busy place. Do not chase a thief or physically resist a robbery.
- If you are hurt or suspect drugging, seek medical help immediately.
- Freeze missing cards and contact your card issuer about unauthorised payments. Lock a stolen phone remotely if possible.
- Save receipts, booking messages and payment records. Write down what happened, where and when.
- Report theft, threats or fraud to police. Ask for a report or reference number for your insurer.
- Contact your insurer, booking provider or embassy as needed. Use the evidence you saved when requesting help or a refund.
What travellers report
Posts about this scam on other sites, summarised in our words. Open one to read the original.
Questions
What is the closed street or closed attraction claims scam in Morocco?
Someone says a road, hotel or attraction is closed, under construction, a prayer area or off limits to tourists. They offer another route to a business with inflated prices. In Marrakech, the detour may lead into a quiet alley for a robbery.
How can I spot it early?
A stranger announces a closure without being asked. They immediately offer another route or business. They insist that your map or GPS will not work.
How do I avoid closed street or closed attraction claims in Morocco?
Check the route yourself. Contact your accommodation directly about access. Do not follow the person into a quiet alley.
What should I do if it happens to me?
Return to a busy street. If threatened, give priority to getting away safely and seek police help.
Where in Morocco does this happen?
Medina alleys, especially near the Fez tanneries It has been reported in Fez, Marrakech.
How common is this scam in Morocco?
Very common. Morocco is generally safe, but tourists often face persistent touts, false guides and inflated prices. Marrakech needs extra care, while Fez has elaborate guide and tour scams; pickpocketing and taxi overcharging also occur in several cities.
Are there similar scams in Morocco?
Yes: directions followed by a payment demand, student or translation request leading to a shop, misleading directions to gain your trust.
Who can I report it to?
Police: report theft, robbery, threats or fraud. Give the location, time and any receipts or messages. Ask for a report or reference number. Tourist police at Djemaa El-Fna, Marrakech: approach a patrol for help with harassment, intimidation or a disputed food-stall bill. Airport security at Marrakech-Menara Airport: ask for help if an airport ATM retains your card. Bank or card issuer: use its official app or verified contact number to freeze a card, report unauthorised payments or question undisclosed ATM fees. Accommodation, booking provider or tour business: report the problem through the official reception desk or booking channel. Provide the agreed price and evidence of what was delivered. Travel insurer: use the claims or assistance contact in your policy. Keep police reports, receipts and medical records. Your embassy or consulate: use its official contact details if your passport is stolen or you need consular help.
What number do I call in an emergency in Morocco?
Police — listed for Marrakech: 19, Ambulance / Fire — listed for Marrakech: 15.
Reviewed by @snuck