Marrakech Accommodation Scams: Fake Riads and Misdirected Arrivals

The Misdirection Setup You arrive in the medina with a riad booking. Someone approaches and says they know where your riad is and will take you there. They take you to a different riad (where they earn commission) and claim it is your booking. Always contact your riad directly before arrival to arrange a pickup from a specific landmark (usually Jemaa el-Fna).

Fake Riad Listings Listings on booking platforms for non-existent or misrepresented properties in the medina. The narrow, unnamed streets make verification difficult. Book only riads with verifiable reviews across multiple platforms and a phone number you can call before arrival.

Porter and Luggage Fees Carts or individuals who offer to carry your luggage to your riad will charge whatever they decide at the end. If you use a porter, agree on the fee before they touch your bags. Fees for the full cart (for significant luggage) should be approximately 50–100 MAD depending on distance.

How to Arrive Safely in Marrakech - Contact your riad 48 hours before arrival to confirm pickup arrangements - Most riads will send someone to meet you at Jemaa el-Fna or at a specific café nearby - Do not follow anyone who approaches you at the taxi drop-off point - Save your riad's phone number and use it actively if you are lost — staff will come to you