Scam in MoroccoFood and drink
Food-stall blocking and false friendship in Morocco
How it works
Touts push menus towards you, block your path, grab your hand or call you an old friend. A friendly conversation becomes pressure to eat at their stall.
Warning signs
- Someone blocks your path with a menu.
- A stranger grabs your hand or claims to know you.
How to avoid it
- Say no firmly and keep moving.
- Do not enter a long conversation.
- Choose a stall after checking its menu and prices.
If it happens to you
Clearly ask to be left alone. Seek help from nearby tourist police if you are blocked or grabbed.
- 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.
- Redditr/Morocco2026Too scam in Marrakesh, I have to rethink my travelA traveller reports that two Jemaa el-Fnaa stall touts physically blocked their path and insulted them after they declined.Read on Reddit
- Travel blog3 Times When I Was Scammed in MarrakechThe author recounts being surrounded by food-stall touts and physically pulled in opposing directions while they competed for her business.Read on Travel blog
Questions
What is the food-stall blocking and false friendship scam in Morocco?
Touts push menus towards you, block your path, grab your hand or call you an old friend. A friendly conversation becomes pressure to eat at their stall.
How can I spot it early?
Someone blocks your path with a menu. A stranger grabs your hand or claims to know you.
How do I avoid food-stall blocking and false friendship in Morocco?
Say no firmly and keep moving. Do not enter a long conversation. Choose a stall after checking its menu and prices.
What should I do if it happens to me?
Clearly ask to be left alone. Seek help from nearby tourist police if you are blocked or grabbed.
Where in Morocco does this happen?
Djemaa El-Fna food stalls at night It has been reported in Marrakech.
How common is this scam in Morocco?
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: complimentary food added to the bill, orange juice price switch, watered-down juice.
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