15 Facts About Morocco Most People Get Wrong
Morocco is home to 37.5M people across 446,550 km², making it a country whose population is spread fairly evenly across its territory. It ranks 1st in the world for African Tourism.
Below are 15 facts about Morocco, covering history, geography, economy and culture, including several that regularly surprise people who think they already know the country.
15 Facts About Morocco
A complete overview of Morocco's history, geography, economy and culture, covering everything from population and borders to language, climate and travel.
Morocco is the only African country with coastlines on both the Atlantic and Mediterranean.
The University of al-Qarawiyyin in Fez, founded in 859 AD, is the world's oldest university.
Morocco is the world's largest exporter of phosphates.
The Sahara Desert covers most of southern Morocco.
Morocco is located in North Africa, Africa, with its capital city in Rabat.
The population of Morocco is approximately 37.5M, spread across 446,550 km² of territory.
Morocco has a population density of 84/km²: a moderate density for its region.
Morocco has a coastline of 1,835 km, giving it access to maritime trade, fishing and coastal tourism.
Morocco shares land borders with 3 countries: Algeria, Mauritania, Spain.
The official languages of Morocco are Arabic / Berber.
Morocco uses the Dirham (MAD) as its official currency.
Morocco gained independence in 1956, establishing itself as a sovereign nation in North Africa.
The total GDP of Morocco is $134B, with a GDP per capita of $3,580, classifying it as a lower-middle-income economy.
Morocco has a mediterranean north, desert south climate, with the best time to visit being March–May, September–November.
Morocco is considered a Budget destination for travellers, with meals averaging $3–8.
The University of al-Qarawiyyin in Fez, founded in 859 CE, is the world's oldest continuously operating university, predating Oxford by over 200 years. Morocco is the only African country with both Atlantic and Mediterranean coastlines.
🏆 Morocco World Rankings
Morocco holds several notable world rankings; here is how it compares globally:
Famous Places in Morocco
Morocco is home to several remarkable landmarks and destinations that draw visitors from around the world:
🕌 Medina of Fez
The world's largest car-free urban area and a living medieval city, UNESCO listed
🏜️ Sahara Desert Dunes
The golden dunes of Erg Chebbi rise 150m near Merzouga at the Algerian border
🌺 Majorelle Garden
A dreamlike Cubist garden in Marrakech, painted in legendary cobalt blue
🕌 Hassan II Mosque
The world's 7th largest mosque, built dramatically over the Atlantic Ocean
Frequently Asked Questions About Morocco
What is Morocco famous for?
The University of al-Qarawiyyin in Fez, founded in 859 CE, is the world's oldest continuously operating university, predating Oxford by over 200 years. Morocco is the only African country with both Atlantic and Mediterranean coastlines.
What is the capital of Morocco?
The capital of Morocco is Rabat.
What is the population of Morocco?
Morocco has a population of approximately 37.5M as of 2026.
What language do they speak in Morocco?
The official languages of Morocco are Arabic / Berber.
When did Morocco become an independent country?
Morocco gained independence in 1956.
What currency does Morocco use?
Morocco uses the Dirham (MAD).
What is the GDP of Morocco?
Morocco has a GDP of $134B, with a GDP per capita of $3,580.
Where is Morocco located?
Morocco is located in North Africa, Africa.
Is Morocco safe to visit?
Safety conditions in Morocco vary by region. Always check your government's official travel advisory before visiting.
What are some fun facts about Morocco?
Morocco is the only African country with coastlines on both the Atlantic and Mediterranean. The University of al-Qarawiyyin in Fez, founded in 859 AD, is the world's oldest university. Morocco is the world's largest exporter of phosphates.
What are some interesting facts about Morocco?
The University of al-Qarawiyyin in Fez, founded in 859 AD, is the world's oldest university. Morocco is the world's largest exporter of phosphates. The Sahara Desert covers most of southern Morocco.
Morocco facts: what should I know?
Morocco is a country in North Africa with a population of 37.5M. Its capital is Rabat and its official language is Arabic / Berber. Morocco is the only African country with coastlines on both the Atlantic and Mediterranean.
Explore More About Morocco
Want to explore another country? Generate a random country and discover somewhere new.