List of rivers of Morocco

Characteristics

Rivers in Morocco range from perennial, high-discharge systems to ephemeral mountain torrents. Snowmelt from the High Atlas and rainfall in the Rif supply flows in winter and spring, while summer sees reduced discharge or dried beds in more southerly and inland channels. Human activities—dams, irrigation schemes and urban water use—have modified flows and sediment transport across much of the country.

Major rivers and notable streams

• Sebou – an important Atlantic river fed by Atlas tributaries and draining fertile agricultural plains in northern Morocco.
• Oum Er-Rbia – one of the principal Atlantic rivers, originating in the Middle Atlas and contributing to irrigation and reservoirs.
• Moulouya – a long river flowing northeast toward the Mediterranean, notable for its cross-country course.
• Draa – Morocco's longest watercourse, running from the High Atlas into the country’s arid south; its lower reaches are often intermittent.
• Tensift – drains central parts of the Atlas toward the Atlantic near Marrakech and supports local agriculture.
• Souss (Oued Souss) – a southwestern river system reaching the Atlantic near Agadir and important for regional irrigation.
• Bouregreg – a short coastal river between Rabat and Salé with urban and hydraulic significance.
• Loukkos – a northern river flowing to the Atlantic near Larache, fed by Rif rainfall.
• Ziz and Guir – southeastern rivers that help form oasis networks and link to desert drainage systems.
• Dades – a High Atlas tributary known for its canyon and valley landscapes.

Uses and environmental issues

Moroccan rivers are central to agriculture, urban supply and hydropower. Reservoirs and dams regulate floods and provide water storage but also alter ecosystems, reduce downstream sediment delivery and affect fish migrations. Climate variability, reduced precipitation, and increased demand raise concerns about water scarcity, seasonal shortages and the need for integrated watershed management.

How the list is organized and where to look

This compilation includes both streams and rivers in Morocco, arranged conceptually by basin (Atlantic, Mediterranean, interior) and alphabetically within categories when used as a reference. For detailed maps, flow statistics or local names, consult regional hydrology sources and national water agencies.