A First-Timer’s Guide to Driving in Nador: 10 Essential Tips & Road Rules

The "Official" Road Rules to Know

Let’s start with the basics. Morocco follows many standard international driving conventions, but here are the non-negotiables:

• Drive on the Right: Just like in continental Europe and North America, you drive on the right side of the road and overtake on the left.
• Roundabouts – Give Way to the Left: This is the most important rule. In Morocco, traffic already in the roundabout (coming from your left) has priority. Wait for a clear gap before entering.
• Speed Limits: Always look for the signs, but general limits are:
  • Urban areas (like Nador): 40–60 km/h
  • Rural/National roads (N-roads): 100 km/h
  • Motorways (A-roads / “Autoroute”): 120 km/h
• Seatbelts are Mandatory: Everyone in the car (front and back) must wear a seatbelt.
• No Mobile Phones: Using a phone while driving is illegal unless it’s a completely hands-free system.

The "Unwritten" Rules & Local Habits

This is what will truly help you blend in and stay safe.

• The Horn Is a Communication Tool: Unlike in many Western countries where a honk signals anger, here it’s used to communicate. A short beep-beep can mean:
  • “I’m here!” (to a pedestrian or scooter)
  • “I’m about to pass you.”
  • “The light is green—let’s go.”
  Don’t be alarmed by it, and don’t hesitate to use it politely yourself.
• Be Aware of Scooters (Mobylettes): Scooters and small motorcycles are everywhere. They are the lifeblood of the city but often weave between lanes and can appear suddenly. Always double-check your mirrors and blind spots before turning or changing lanes. Give them space.
• Pedestrians Have the “Right of Way”: Officially, pedestrians should use crosswalks, but in reality, people cross wherever they find a gap. Be vigilant, especially on busy commercial streets, and drive at a defensive speed.

Practical Tips for Nador

• Parking: Understanding the “Gardien” – In many parts of Nador (especially near the corniche, beaches, or market), you’ll find “Gardiens de Voitures.” These are unofficial (or semi-official) parking attendants, often wearing a blue vest. They will guide you into a spot, and it’s customary to tip them when you leave—typically 2–5 Dirhams ($0.20–$0.50 USD) for a short stop, or 10 Dirhams for an evening. It’s a small price for having someone watch over your car.
• Police Checkpoints (“Barrages”): You’ll encounter police checkpoints, especially on main roads entering or leaving Nador (like those to Melilla, Saïdia, or Al Hoceima). Don’t panic:
  • Slow down significantly as you approach.
  • Stop if the officer signals you to do so.
  • They may wave you through or ask for your papers.
  • Have your driver’s license, passport, and the car’s rental agreement (carte grise) easily accessible.
  • Be polite, smile, and you’ll be on your way quickly—they’re used to tourists.

Don’t Be Afraid!

Driving in Nador is an adventure, not an ordeal. The first 15 minutes might feel intense, but you’ll quickly adapt. The roads outside the city center, like the beautiful N16 coastal road, are generally modern and a pleasure to drive.

The freedom your rental car provides is more than worth the small learning curve. Stay alert, be patient, and enjoy the incredible journey.