Is online poker legal in Morocco?

Online poker is currently unregulated. While there are no specific laws prohibiting players from accessing international sites, domestic companies are not licensed to operate platforms.

Can I access international poker sites from Morocco?

Yes, many international online poker sites are accessible in Morocco . Players can join these sites, but they do so at their own risk, as there are no local protections.

Are winnings from online poker taxed?

Yes. As of 2025, a new tax regime imposes a 30% withholding tax on winnings from foreign online gambling platforms, plus a 2% “solidarity contribution” deducted at the point of payout by banks or payment intermediaries.

Are there any penalties for playing online poker in Morocco?

While Morocco doesn’t enforce penalties for individual online players, gambling on unregulated sites carries some risk. The focus of gambling laws is primarily on physical gambling establishments.

Is live poker legal in Morocco?

Yes, live poker is widely available in Morocco , although the country lacks specific regulations governing gambling. This essentially creates a “free-for-all” environment where casinos operate without needing local gambling licenses.

What is the legal gambling age in Morocco?

The minimum age to enter a casino or participate in poker games is 18. You must present a valid passport or ID card upon entry.

What are some popular venues for live poker in Morocco?

Top poker venues include the Mazagan Beach & Golf Resort in El Jadida , Casino de Marrakech , and Casino Atlantic in Agadir . These casinos host a variety of tournaments and cash games throughout the year.

Does Casino de Marrakech host major poker events?

Yes, Casino de Marrakech regularly hosts prominent events, including the WSOP International Circuit and WPT Deepstack tournaments. These events attract international players and feature buy-ins from around AED2,000 to AED30,000.

What currency is used at the poker tables?

The primary currency is the Moroccan Dirham (MAD). Many casinos provide currency exchange services for Euros or Dollars, but all bets and payouts are handled in MAD.

Discover Morocco's Thriving Poker Scene and Legislation

Tricia DavidAuthor

Reviewed by Zoe Chang

Updated: 2026.03.05

Morocco has strengthened its position as the top poker destination in North Africa. The country combines warm Mediterranean hospitality with a well-established tournament scene. While many nearby countries have strict gambling bans, Morocco has a long-standing casino culture. Cities like Marrakech, Agadir, and El Jadida attract a steady flow of European professionals and international poker players throughout the year.

Morocco: The North African Poker Stronghold

The Legal Framework: Gambling is governed by the 1966 Dahir (decree), which permits licensed land-based casinos to operate legally. Unlike some restrictive regions, these venues are open to both locals and foreign visitors, provided they meet the age and identification requirements.
The Poker Epicenter: Marrakech is the undisputed heart of Moroccan poker, primarily centered at the Es Saadi Marrakech Resort. The city’s accessibility from Europe and its luxury infrastructure make it a favorite stop for major global tours like the WSOP Circuit.
2026 Regulatory Climate: Authorities have maintained a “free-for-all” approach to live poker legislation, meaning there is no centralized national poker regulator. However, individual licensed casinos operate under strict government oversight to ensure game integrity.

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PRIMARY HUBS
Marrakech, Agadir, El Jadida

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KEY VENUE
Casino de Marrakech

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ADMISSION
Open to All (18+)

2026 Major Poker Festivals

Morocco’s 2026 calendar kicked off with massive fields and continues to offer high-value international events:

Es Saadi Marrakech Resort (Casino de Marrakech): This venue remains the crown jewel of the region. It hosted a record-breaking WSOP International Circuit in January 2026, featuring 12 ring events and a Main Event won by Sandro Carucci for 3,000,000 MAD. It is also the annual home for the Marrakech Poker Open and the high-energy Winamax SISMIX.

Mazagan Beach & Golf Resort: Located in El Jadida, this is the largest casino in Morocco. Historically a host for the World Poker Tour (WPT), it offers a more secluded, luxury-focused experience for players looking for high-stakes cash games and seasonal tournament series.

Agadir Scene: For those seeking consistent daily action, Casino Atlantic in Agadir is famous for running 24/7 cash games and daily tournaments with accessible buy-ins starting around 250 MAD.

2026 Key Dates & Events

WSOP International Circuit Marrakech (Jan 16 – 25, 2026): The hallmark winter festival at Es Saadi featuring the 16,000 MAD Main Event.

Winamax SISMIX (May 2026): A unique “poker and party” festival known for its 6-max format and massive player pools from France and Spain.

Online Poker in Morocco

Online Poker Legislation in Morocco

Online poker exists in a legal gray area. There are no specific laws that officially permit or license domestic online gambling platforms. However, the government’s 2025 Finance Bill signaled a shift toward indirect regulation by taxing winnings from offshore sites. By authorizing banks to deduct 32% (total) from overseas gambling payouts, the state effectively recognizes the activity while maintaining that the platforms themselves are technically unlicensed.

Best Online Poker Sites in Morocco

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Live Poker in Morocco

Live Poker Legislation in Morocco

Live poker is legally categorized under the general “Games of Chance” allowed in licensed casino establishments. Legislation dates back to 1966 and focuses primarily on physical land-based operations. In 2026, this translates to a stable environment for live players, as the government continues to view casino tourism as a vital economic driver. While there is no dedicated “Poker Commission,” the Secrétariat Général du Gouvernement oversees the legal texts that govern these licenses.

Live Poker Venues in Morocco

Beyond the major hubs, Morocco offers a diverse range of environments. Casino de Marrakech remains the historical home of the game, having been the first to host international tours like the WPT and WSOP-C on the continent. In Agadir, Casino Shem’s and Le Mirage provide alternative options for those looking to combine a beach holiday with consistent tournament action. Most venues offer 10/20 MAD ($1.10/$2.20) as their base stakes, though high-stakes games are frequently arranged during major festivals.