Morocco has a two-tier system: an underfunded but improving public network, and a strong private sector concentrated in Casablanca, Rabat and Tangier. Most expats use private clinics with international or local insurance.
Public vs private
Public hospitals (CHU, CHP) are free or nearly free at the point of use for those covered by AMO. Long waits, basic comfort, but specialists are often excellent — especially in maternity and oncology.
Private clinics dominate day-to-day expat care. In Tangier the main ones are Clinique Le Détroit, Clinique Assalam, Clinique Tanger and the new Polyclinique Beausite. A GP visit is 200–350 MAD, a specialist 400–700 MAD, an MRI around 2,500 MAD.
Insurance for expats
AMO TNS (Assurance Maladie Obligatoire — Travailleurs Non Salariés) is now open to self-employed residents since 2022. ~5% of declared income, capped, gives you access to public and partial private reimbursement.
Private Moroccan insurance — Saham (Sanlam), AXA, RMA, Wafa Assurance offer family plans from ~3,000 MAD/year for basic to 20,000 MAD/year for premium. Best value if you're under 60.
International insurance — Cigna Global, Allianz Care, April International. Expensive (€2,000–5,000/year) but covers evacuation and treatment in Spain or France.
Pharmacies & prescriptions
Pharmacies are everywhere and well stocked. Many medications that need a prescription in Europe are sold over the counter. Prices are regulated and clearly displayed. Pharmacie de garde rotates 24/7 — the schedule is posted in every pharmacy window.
Dental & optical
Tangier has excellent private dentists — a cleaning is 300–500 MAD, an implant 6,000–9,000 MAD (a fraction of European prices). Optical chains (Optical Center, Atol) carry European brands at 30–40% lower prices.
Emergency numbers
- SAMU (ambulance) — 141
- Civil protection (fire & rescue) — 15
- Police — 19 (city), 177 (gendarmerie outside cities)
- SOS Médecins Tangier (private home visits) — +212 539 32 33 00
FAQ
- Can tourists access healthcare in Morocco?
- Yes — at any private clinic on a fee-for-service basis. Travel insurance is strongly recommended. Public hospitals will treat emergencies regardless of status.
- Is the water safe to drink?
- Tap water in Tangier is chlorinated and meets WHO standards but most expats stick to bottled or filtered water for taste. Sidi Ali and Sidi Harazem are the leading mineral brands.
- Do I need vaccinations?
- No mandatory vaccines for entry. WHO recommends being up to date on tetanus, hepatitis A & B, and typhoid for longer stays.
- Can I bring my prescription medication?
- Yes, in original packaging with your prescription. Controlled substances (some sleep meds, ADHD meds) require a doctor's letter and may need pre-authorisation from the Ministry of Health.