(A guide for couples dreaming of a magical Moroccan wedding—without the budget surprises!)
Why Get Married in Morocco?
Imagine this: the scent of orange blossoms in the air, the soft glow of lanterns flickering against ancient walls, and the sound of traditional Berber drums welcoming you into your wedding celebration. Whether you dream of an intimate riad ceremony, a bohemian beachside wedding in Essaouira, or a dramatic desert elopement under the stars, Morocco offers an unforgettable experience.
But how much does it cost to have a wedding in Morocco? Let’s break it down—venue by venue, cost by cost—so you can plan your dream wedding with confidence (and maybe even some leftover budget for a honeymoon in the Atlas Mountains).
Wedding Venues in Morocco: What’s Your Style?
🏰 Marrakech: The Ultimate Fairytale Setting
Marrakech is the heart of Morocco’s wedding scene—luxurious, vibrant, and dripping with culture. From grand palaces to intimate courtyards, this city has it all.
📍 Top venues in Marrakech:
- La Mamounia – A five-star palace where celebrities get married. Expect the ultimate in luxury. (lamamounia.com)
- Beldi Country Club – A chic, rustic venue with gardens, pools, and stunning views. (beldicountryclub.com)
- Dar El Sadaka – A surreal, art-filled riad perfect for couples who want something unique. (darelsadaka.com)
💰 Cost: Wedding packages in Marrakech range from $10,000 to $50,000, depending on guest count and extravagance.
✨ Tip: Many riads require a full buyout for weddings, so plan accordingly!
🏝️ Essaouira: A Laid-Back Beach Wedding
Want an ocean breeze with your vows? Essaouira is a relaxed coastal town with charming riads and scenic beaches.
📍 Top venues in Essaouira:
- Villa Maroc – A boutique riad with sea views and a romantic courtyard. (villamaroc.com)
- Sofitel Essaouira Mogador – A luxury resort blending nature and Moroccan elegance. (sofitel-mogador.com)
💰 Cost: More budget-friendly than Marrakech, weddings here range from $5,000 to $25,000.
✨ Tip: If you love seafood, Essaouira is known for the freshest fish in Morocco—perfect for a wedding feast!
🏜️ Sahara Desert: A Wedding Under the Stars
If you’ve ever dreamed of saying “I do” under a blanket of stars with golden dunes all around, a Sahara wedding is for you.
📍 Top desert wedding experiences:
- Scarabeo Camp – A luxury desert glamping experience, perfect for intimate ceremonies. (scarabeocamp.com)
💰 Cost: A Sahara wedding can range from $8,000 to $30,000, including guest accommodations and transport.
✨ Tip: A camel procession instead of a bridal car? Yes, please!
Wedding Costs in Morocco: What to Expect
| Expense |
Cost Range |
| Venue rental (including accommodation) |
$5,000 – $30,000 |
| Catering (per guest) |
$50 – $150 |
| Photography & Videography |
$2,000 – $10,000 |
| Decor & Entertainment |
$5,000 – $20,000 |
| Guest accommodations (per night) |
$100 – $800 |
| Flights (per person) |
$500 – $1,500 |
✨ Tip: Many Moroccan wedding venues offer all-inclusive packages, which can help you save money on decor and entertainment.
How to Save Money on Your Moroccan Wedding
💡 Consider an off-season wedding (June-August or January-February). Prices drop when the weather is hotter or cooler.
💡 Go for a weekday wedding. Moroccan venues charge premium rates for weekend events.
💡 Limit your guest list. Moroccan weddings can be lavish, but keeping it intimate will significantly cut costs.
💡 Opt for a riad instead of a resort. Riads are more affordable and offer an authentic experience.
What About the Legal Side? Can Foreigners Get Married in Morocco?
Yes, but it’s complicated! If you want a legally recognized wedding in Morocco, you’ll need to navigate a lot of paperwork. Most couples opt for a symbolic ceremony in Morocco and handle the legal paperwork in their home country.
FAQs About Moroccan Weddings
❓ How much does a small wedding in Morocco cost?
👉 An intimate wedding for 20-30 guests can cost between $5,000 and $15,000, depending on the venue and catering choices.
❓ When is the best time of year for a Moroccan wedding?
👉 Spring (March-May) and fall (September-November) offer the best weather—not too hot, not too cold!
❓ What’s a must-have Moroccan wedding tradition?
👉 The Mechoui feast! Slow-roasted lamb, served whole, is a showstopper at traditional Moroccan weddings.
Final Thoughts: Is a Moroccan Wedding Worth It?
1000% YES! Where else can you have a lantern-lit courtyard ceremony, a Sahara sunset photoshoot, and a wedding feast fit for a king—all in one country? Morocco is a dream destination for adventurous couples who want a wedding that’s as breathtaking as their love story.
📸 Want your Moroccan wedding captured in stunning, timeless photography? Let’s turn your wedding into a work of art!
✨ Check out my photography portfolio: Your Happy Moments Blog
💰 Explore my wedding photography packages: Investment
📩 Ready to chat? Let’s make magic happen: Contact Me
Let’s create something unforgettable—just like your love. ✨
