Geographical area Almost 446,550 sq km. 172,413 sq miles

Capital Rabat.

Population Approximately 33 million people (one of the most populous country in the Arab world).

People Most Moroccans are Sunni Muslims of Arab, Berber, or mixed Arab-Berber stock. About three-quarters of all present-day Moroccans are of Berber descent, while Arabs form the second largest ethnic group.

Language  Arabic and Tamazight are the official languages, French, Spanish, Berber and Castilian.

System of Government Presidential Republic with a democracy.

Currency & Exchange rate Local currency = Moroccan Dirhams (MAD) GBP £1 = 11.8 MAD   USD $1 = 8.7 MAD   EURO €1 = 11.08 MAD   (subject to fluctuation)

Religion Morocco is an Islamic country with 98% of the population Sunni Muslims. The remaining 2% are Christian and Jewish.

Time Zones Same time as Greenwich Mean Time. They don't observe Daylight saving time.

Weather Morocco is a great year round destination, blessed with lots of sunshine and a temperate climate. It can be incredibly hot in the summer months with temperatures 38°C or higher, particularly in July and August so use plenty of sun screen, cover up and drink plenty of water. The nights are cooler especially in the mountains or in the desert and it is windy along the coast throughout the year. During the winter months (November to February), temperatures usually remain pleasant in the cities, averaging around 20°C, but it is very cold at nights, in the desert and in the Atlas Mountains. There is often snow in the Atlas Mountains from November through until March. We recommend that you pack plenty of warm clothes.

Trading hours 0900 - 1300hrs and 1700 - 2200hrs in summer and 1000-1800hrs in winter, often with a long break in the afternoon. Many shops are closed on Friday and Sunday and hours may change during Ramadan.

Voltage Standard voltage is 220V AC, 50 Hz. Sockets require European plug with a small diameter prong (two round pins). You will need a power adaptor for all electical items.