Is Morocco dangerous, in particular for a Jewish American?
I may be travelling to Morocco later this year. I am an American student (not Moroccan by birth, only by inherited citizenship) and my last name is Jewish.
With Morocco: predicting a "serious terror threat" in the coming months; the growing number of anti-semitic attacks in recent years; the fact that Morocco is a Muslim country, and the fact that I am American and Moroccans will easily detect that I am ethnically Jewish, is there any danger in travelling to Morocco? I am afraid of being involved in some terrorist plot, very afraid actually.
I would also like to know if Morocco is dangerous in general, for tourists.
By the way, I would be going there four 4 days in April to take part in a math training camp for high school math contests. I don't know yet which city I would be going to, but I assume this camp will be held at a university.
Best Answer
It is safe for all jews.
Jews have been part of the history of Morocco. Maybe they lived there before Islam but a big jew community came to Morocco when they were expelled after Spain took back "Al Andalous" from Muslims, who returned to Morocco as well.
Nowadays, there are aren't as many because of migration to Israel (because of their beliefs they must go to what they call "home", as well as to enhance their quality of life). However, there is an important Jewish community still today in Morocco, and they don't encounter issues.
I can give you some examples of famous Jews in Morocco: Gad El Maleh, a comedian originally from Casablanca, popular with many Moroccans like him. Another of prominance is André Azolay, a consultant to the King.
To conclude, Moroccans do not have any problems with Jews; Jews are part of Morocco. The problems they have can be Israel as a country. But in Morocco, we don't confuse the two, Jews and Israel.
Pictures about "Is Morocco dangerous, in particular for a Jewish American?"
Is Morocco safe for American Jews?
Morocco's grand history of which Jews have historically been a part. Morocco's history of Jewry and the co-mingling of Jews with Berbers and Arabs are a key factor in why Morocco is safe for Jewish travelers today. Morocco is a country of Muslims, Jews, and Christians.What are the dangers of Morocco?
Safety- Terrorism is a risk in Morocco. ...
- Westerners are at higher risk of serious crime across North Africa. ...
- Petty crime, such as pickpocketing and bag snatching, is common. ...
- Tourists may face aggressive begging and harassment, particularly near ATMs. Female travellers may be sexually harassed. ...
- Scams and fraud are common.
Is Morocco dangerous for tourists?
Morocco is, for the most part, a safe country to visit. Its crime rates are relatively low, but it is advised to remain vigilant at all times and keep your valuables in a safe place. It is a friendly Muslim country, so it is expected of tourists to be respectful of Islamic culture and customs.What should I avoid in Morocco?
Things That Tourists Should Never Do in Morocco, Ever- Disrespect Islam. ...
- Disrespect the monarchy. ...
- Use your left hand to eat with. ...
- Walk around in beachwear (away from the beach) ...
- Expect everyone to speak English. ...
- Limit your stay to Marrakech. ...
- Expect Casablanca to be like the movie. ...
- Think fez hats come from the city of Fez.
The Sultan’s Communists: Moroccan Jews and the Politics of Belonging - Alma Rachel Heckman
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Answer 2
It's not exactly the same, but...
My son's teacher recently visited Morocco. He's very visibly Jewish, and so is his name - and he hasn't had any trouble.
(The big difference, admittedly, is that he was actually born and raised in Morocco, and his family still lives there. Also, he was in Casablanca, whereas you mentioned in your comments that you're going to Rabat.)
You might do well to contact Chabad there for tips and suggestions.
Answer 3
Serously, Moroccan Jews make 1/3 of Israel and you still think that we are Anti-Semite? We are originally a Jewish country before the coming of Islam. Lots of Jews still live here and lots of them come from Israel to spend their holidays in here each year. So no, you should pass by anytime you want.
Answer 4
Morocco is one of the best and safest country in the world, they live arabs 30% , berbers 50%, jews 10% , haratines, sahraouians, christians and other religions and ethnics ...
As Iam a french jewish landy, I lived in marrakech medina near to jewish mellah,since 10years now and I have so many real friendly moroccan friends and i grow up my business in tourism by managing a riad and a small touristic company for jewish tours and student trips...
I enjoy myself all time, I recommend for you morocco to visit or live .
Answer 5
As of today the US State Department has Morocco at Level 2: Exercise Increased Caution.
Check their website for future updates and alerts:
Sources: Stack Exchange - This article follows the attribution requirements of Stack Exchange and is licensed under CC BY-SA 3.0.
Images: Karolina Grabowska, ZHANQUN CAI, Pixabay, Hassan OUAJBIR