North Africa.

GMT.

710,850 sq km (274,461 sq miles).

31.6 million (UN, 2005).

44.4 per sq km.

Rabat. Population: 1.3 million (1994).

Morocco is located on the westernmost tip of north Africa, bordering Algeria to the east and Mauritania to the south and southeast, the Atlantic ocean to the west and the Mediterranean to the north. Running through the middle of the country is the Atlas mountain range, which leads to the fertile plains and sandy beaches of the Atlantic coast. The Middle Atlas range sweeps up from the south, rising to over 3000m (9850ft), covered with woodlands of pine, oak and cedar, open pastureland and small lakes. The Rif Mountains run along the north coast. The ports of Ceuta (Sebta) and Melilla on the north coast are administered by Spain.

The monarch appoints the Prime Minister and Council of Ministers to wield executive power under his supervision. A series of modifications have been made to the 1992 constitution concerning the bicameral legislature. The Chamber of Representatives (Majlis al-Nuwab) comprises 325 members, of whom 295 are elected by proportional representation in multi-seat constituencies; the remaining 30 seats are reserved for women and are elected from national lists. The 270 members of the Chamber of Counsellors (Majlis al-Mustasharin) are indirectly elected by local councils (162), chambers of commerce (81) and trade unions (27) for a nine-year term.

Constitutional monarchy since 1956. Gained independence from France in 1956. Head of State: King Mohammed VI since 1999. Head of Government: Prime Minister Driss Jettou since October 2002. Recent history: King Mohammed VI was enthroned in July 1999. He soon embarked on a series of political and economic changes and pursued a modernising course. Although poverty is still widespread and unemployment remains high, one of the King's priorities was to fight poverty. He set up a programme of economic liberalisation to attract foreign investment, eased restrictions on the press and granted more rights to women.

The official language is Arabic, but Berber is spoken by a large minority. French is widely spoken throughout the country, except in the northern regions where Spanish is more predominant. English is also understood, particularly in the north and the main tourist areas.

Predominantly Muslim with Jewish and Christian minorities. Morocco's population and culture stems from a cross-section of origins including Berbers, Arabs, Moors and Jews.

Handshaking is the customary form of greeting. Many of the manners and social customs emulate French manners, particularly amongst the middle class. The visitor may find, in some social situations, that patience and firmness will pay dividends. Often visitors may find themselves the centre of unsolicited attention. In towns, young boys after money will be eager to point out the way, sell goods or simply charge for a photograph, while unofficial guides will always be offering advice or services. The visitor should be courteous but wary of the latter. Normal social courtesies should be observed in someone's home. Casual wear is widely acceptable, although swimsuits and shorts should be confined to the beach or poolside. Women travelling alone, and/or wearing clothes regarded as provocative (eg strappy tops, short skirts, etc) may attract unwanted attention. Sexual relations outside marriage, and homosexual conduct, are punishable by law. Smoking is widespread and it is customary to offer cigarettes.

127/220 volts AC, 50Hz, depending on age and location of building.