The main language of Morocco is Arabic. It is one of two official languages, the other being Amazigh, the language used by the ethnic Berber population.
French is the primary language of business, a throwback from the colonial era, and Spanish is the main second language in some parts of the country. English is fairly widely understood in major tourist areas.
The official Arabic of Morocco is Modern Standard Arabic (MSA), though the use of this classical form of the language is mainly restricted to official matters.
The dialect of Arabic spoken on the streets of Morocco is Darija.
Table of Contents
Brief Overview of Darija
Darija is its own unique form of Arabic, though it is very similar to the language used in neighboring Algeria.
To a smaller extent, it also shares similarities with the forms of Arabic spoken in other countries of the Maghreb, such as Tunisia and Libya.
While Moroccans may find it fairly easy to understand Arabic speakers from the Middle East, the opposite isn’t always true—there may be differences with pronunciation, syntax, vocabulary, and word use.
Some Arabic words have dropped out of use in MSA, but are still used in Darija. Furthermore, Darija incorporates various loanwords from languages like Amazigh, French, Spanish, Portuguese, and English.
Learning Darija and Arabic in Marrakech
While it certainly isn’t essential that you master Moroccan Arabic for an enjoyable visit, it is definitely useful for expats and people that are planning to stay for a longer period of time.
Knowing a few basic words and phrases, such as hello and thank you, are always polite and endearing when you visit any new country.
There are many reasons why you may want to learn more than rudimentary Moroccan Arabic, however, including for business purposes, better communication in a relationship, and for enjoyment.
There are a number of language centers and schools around Marrakech that offer classes in Darija for learners of all levels.
Whether you’re a total beginner or whether you want to improve existing skills, here are some of the best places to learn Darija and Arabic in the popular tourist city of Marrakech:
Study Arabic Marrakech
Study Arabic Marrakech offers a range of tailored language courses to suit anyone’s requirements.
You can dip into the language and learn a few basic phrases on a one-day course, or take longer to develop your skills further. You can study on a one-on-one basis or learn as a group.
If there are more than six people an instructor can come to your home, hotel, or riad to teach you—learning has never been more convenient!
For long-term learners experienced instructors carefully take you through the language step by step, building vocabulary, grammar, idioms, and all skills you need to become fluent.
If time is limited you can also learn online, and the centre provides a range of excellent resources for self study to help you learn the language faster.
Creative Interactions
Creative Interactions offers more than simply a chance to learn Arabic—you can jump right into the Moroccan culture and really get to know about the local life, traditions, history, and beliefs.
There are long- and short-term language workshops where, in a group, you can develop your skills in MSA or Moroccan Arabic (Darija).
The courses are targeted at travelers with a curious mind
Some include different activities where you can practice your new skills, such as bargaining in the souks or chatting over a glass of mint tea.
There are also immersive cultural programs where you can learn more about the art of henna, cook traditional dishes, and explore with locals.
Centre for Language and Culture
Study Darija in a group and fully immerse yourself in the language to develop your skills quicker and remember new words and concepts quicker.
Students are encouraged to interact with each other in Darija as much as possible, discussing a range of topics and role playing varied scenarios.
Courses run all throughout the year and there are classes for every level of learner.
So, no matter whether you’re a complete beginner or whether you already know the basics, you’ll be placed with people who have a similar level to yourself.
Lingwa
Lingwa is a relatively new and modern language centre in Marrakech’s newer area of Gueliz.
All teachers are certified professionals, and you can learn either Darija or MSA. (Other languages are also available.)
Classes are held at various times of the day and it’s easy to find sessions that work around your existing commitments and lifestyle.
There are both group and private class options’ if you study in a group you’ll be learning alongside people from diverse countries around the world
Lessane Arabi Center for Arabic Studies
Lessane Arabi Center for Arabic Studies provides tailored language courses in both MSA and Darija. There are special sessions available for people who want to focus on Arabic for corporate, business, or diplomatic use.
There’s a focus on academic learning, and it’s one of a few language institutions in Marrakech that provides teaching of classic Arabic literature and prepares people to take exams or participate in language contests.
Younger learners are also catered for with lessons for kids. You can also schedule classes online for complete convenience.
The centre also offers a range of other cultural activities, including cooking classes and volunteering projects.
If you’re planning to stay in Marrakech with the main aim of improving your language you can remove any hassle from your stay and arrange your accommodation through the centre too.
EFAL Center
The EFAL Center aims to provide all students with a proficient working knowledge of their chosen language, along with the confidence to be able to use their new skills in a variety of settings.
The centre has good resources for students and you can choose between group or private lessons. Cultural exchanges are highly encouraged too.
Henna Café
While, as the name suggests, the main focus of Marrakech’s Henna Café is on the body art of henna, the laid-back café also hosts informal language sessions.
Local volunteers come and lead sessions and encourage group chats.
While this may not be your first choice if you want to hone your language skills and learn quickly, it’s terrific for practicing existing skills, developing confidence, having fun, sharing ideas, and meeting new people.
Related Post: Moroccan Languages: What Travelers Should Know