How to make a monthly budget in Morocco (simple method, in dirhams)
Updated 4 November 2026 · by Kenzalo
To make a budget in Morocco, start from the salary you actually receive, take out your fixed costs (rent, loan, bills) and your savings first, then split the rest into 5 to 8 categories, each with a limit. Write down your spending every evening and review the month at the end.
1. Start from the salary you actually receive
Your budget starts with the amount that really lands in your account each month: net salary, regular bonuses, income from a side job. Leave out uncertain income (overtime, occasional sales): add it when it actually comes in.
If your salary arrives on the 25th or the 28th, start your "budget month" on that day rather than on the 1st: you spend the month's money when it arrives.
2. Take out fixed costs first
Fixed costs are the amounts that go out every month, no matter what. List them with their due date:
- Rent or mortgage payment
- Car loan or consumer loan
- Electricity and water (Lydec, Redal, Amendis, ONEE…)
- Internet and phone
- Children's school fees, insurance, subscriptions
- Regular support to family
3. Set savings aside as soon as you get paid
The most common mistake: saving "whatever is left" at the end of the month. There is almost never anything left. Decide on a savings amount and transfer it on payday, before any spending.
A common benchmark: 10 to 20% of your salary. If that is too much at first, start with 5% and increase it every quarter.
4. Split the rest into categories with a limit
What remains after fixed costs and savings is your budget for everyday spending. Example for a 9,000 DH salary (indicative amounts):
| Item | Amount (example) |
|---|---|
| Net salary | 9,000 DH |
| Fixed costs (rent, bills, internet) | − 3,600 DH |
| Savings (15%) | − 1,350 DH |
| Groceries | 1,500 DH |
| Transport (taxi, tram, fuel) | 800 DH |
| Going out, cafés, restaurants | 600 DH |
| Health, medical care | 350 DH |
| Unexpected expenses | 800 DH |
5. Write down your spending every evening (2 minutes)
A budget only works if you can see where you stand. The simplest way: every evening, write down the day's spending by category. Two minutes is enough, and you always know how much is left in each category.
One-off expenses (a repair, a gift, unexpected medical costs) are recorded separately so they don't distort your everyday budget.
6. Review the month at the end
Compare with the previous month: which categories went up? Where did you go over? Adjust next month's limits, and decide what to do with the money you didn't spend: save it, put it towards a goal or carry it over.
Frequently asked questions
How much should I save from my salary in Morocco?
A common benchmark is 10 to 20% of your net salary, transferred as soon as you receive it. On a small salary, start with 5% and increase it gradually.
Which app should I use to budget in Morocco?
An app that handles dirhams and Arabic, such as Kenzalo, lets you track your spending by category every evening without connecting your bank account.
Do I need to connect my bank account to make a budget?
No. Recording your spending yourself, cash and card alike, is enough and gives a more accurate picture, especially in Morocco where many payments are made in cash.