Is Tangier safe? Safety advice
Tangier is a lively, busy city where most stays go without incident. What foreign governments say, the real risks (theft, fake guides, beaches), emergency numbers and simple precautions.
- The United States rates Morocco at level 2 of 4 (“exercise increased caution”), mainly because of the risk of terrorism, in its advisory of 4 September 2026.
- The most common risk is petty crime in medinas and on beaches (British government).
- Fake guides and taxis without meters are frequent nuisances, not dangers.
- Few lifeguards and strong currents: take care in the water.
- Emergencies: 19 police, 15 ambulance and fire, 177 gendarmerie; the Australian government gives 190.
What foreign governments say
Travel advice published by several governments gives a solid basis. The US State Department rates the whole of Morocco at level 2 of 4, “exercise increased caution”, because of the risk of terrorism (advisory of 4 September 2026, level unchanged); it recommends avoiding demonstrations, the areas around stadiums on match days, and isolated or poorly lit beaches, parks and streets after dark. The British and Australian governments publish detailed advice, quoted throughout this article. These advisories cover the whole country: none singles out Tangier.
The most common risk: theft
According to the British government, petty crime is common in tourist areas, especially medinas and beaches. Keep your bag closed and in front of you in the lanes and in crowds, don't leave your phone on a café table, and carry only the cash you need for the day. On the beach, don't leave anything unattended while you swim. In the evening, stick to busy streets and take a petit taxi back if your accommodation is far.
Fake guides, taxis and commissions
On the beach and in the water
According to the British government, many Moroccan beaches have limited or no lifeguard cover, signage may be minimal, and strong currents or unexpected waves can occur. The Atlantic coast, south of Cape Spartel, is more exposed than the bay. Never swim alone in rough seas, stay close to other swimmers and keep a constant eye on children.
Women travelling alone
The British government says women may receive unwanted attention, especially when travelling alone. Ignoring remarks, walking on and stepping into a shop or café is usually enough. Clothing that covers shoulders and knees draws less attention in the medina. Your accommodation can recommend a trusted guide or taxi.
Laws to know
Morocco has a zero-tolerance approach to drugs, including cannabis: possession, use and trafficking are serious offences with severe penalties (British government). A drone requires permission from the Directorate General of Civil Aviation, or you risk a fine and confiscation (same source). During Ramadan, the Australian government advises avoiding eating, drinking or smoking in public. Always ask before photographing someone.
Health and emergencies
Emergency numbers according to Wikipedia: 19 for the police in towns, 15 for fire and ambulance, 177 for the Royal Gendarmerie outside towns. The Australian government gives 190 for all emergencies: note both. According to the same government, most private hospitals require payment before admission, even in an emergency, and most ambulances are private: travel insurance is strongly advised. If something is stolen, report it at the police station for your insurance; if you lose your passport, contact your consulate.
Frequently asked questions
Is Tangier dangerous for tourists?
No, most stays go without incident. The most common risk is petty crime in the medina and on beaches; the usual precautions are enough.
Can you walk around Tangier in the evening?
Yes, in the busy streets of the centre and on the corniche. The US State Department advises avoiding isolated or poorly lit streets, parks and beaches after dark.
What is the police number in Morocco?
19 in towns according to Wikipedia; the Australian government gives 190 for all emergencies. The gendarmerie can be reached on 177 outside towns.
Do you need travel insurance?
It is strongly advised: private hospitals often require payment before admission, according to the Australian government.
Sources
- U.S. Department of State, Morocco Travel Advisory · advisory of 4 September 2026, accessed 22 October 2026
- GOV.UK, foreign travel advice, Morocco: safety · updated 19 August 2026, accessed 22 October 2026
- Smartraveller (Australian government), Morocco · accessed 22 October 2026
- Wikipedia, “Telephone numbers in Morocco” (emergency numbers) · accessed 22 October 2026
Article written from these documentary sources, without a verification visit unless stated otherwise. Prices and opening hours change: check them before you go.