The telephone system in Morocco is adequate, but international lines can be less well connected. Setting up a landline is usually simple and may be included with Internet/TV package. There are about 3 million main lines in Morocco.
Installation
To set up Internet or telephone service you will need:
- Copy of a residence permit (or other photo ID)
- One-time connection payment
Service can usually be installed within a few days.
Main Provider
Dialing
Phone numbers in Morocco are 9 digits in length (excluding the leading 0). The country uses a closed numbering plan, which means the area code is not omitted for local calls. Casablanca has 10 area codes.
- Country Code: +212
- International Call Prefix: 00
- Trunk Prefix: 0
To call internationally from Morocco:
Dial exit code (00) followed by country code, area code and number. In some countries, the leading zero of the area code must not be dialed. For example:
00 + country code + area code + tel number
0520-xxxxxx
To call internationally to Morocco:
Dial the number required for an international call, such as 00, then 212 (country code for Morocco), then the phone number without the leading zero of the former area code. For example:
212-520-xxxxxx
Public Phones
There is an excellent network of public telephone boxes in cities and smaller towns. Stores also offer private telephone booths (teleboutiques or telekiosques) operated using coins.
Prepaid Cards
A prepaid card can be the easiest way to make international calls and the only way to use public phones. Cards usually come with Arabic or French instructions, but after dialing the number listed on the card English-spoken instructions are available.
Cards can be found in post offices and street kiosks.
Most cards are used by:
- Dial the Access Number
- Enter your PIN Number
- Enter the number you wish to dial
The Magic Jack
The Magic Jack is a USB device that can be purchased at electronic stores. It allows it's users to make cheap internet phone calls through the computer. It works by assigning your computer a local number in your country of choice and making a call that way.
Skype & Chatting
Various sites offer the ability to "chat" with other users. Originally this meant typed messages that would instantly pop up on each others screens. In recent years, this has expanded to being able to voice and video chat. With service through the internet, it is cheap, easy, and even better then a phone call.
Skype is far and away the best technology as users can message, talk, or video chat with other internet users for free. Users can also call land lines and mobile phones for a fee. Other useful services include Google talk, windows live messenger, meebo, and more.
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