Is it safe to accept mint tea from strangers in the medina?

Accepting mint tea in the medina is usually safe and is a genuine part of Moroccan hospitality, but be aware of the context: tea offered inside a shop is almost always a prelude to a sales pitch, not a threat. Sharing tea while you look at rugs or argan oil is normal and fine — just know that it creates a soft obligation the seller hopes will make it harder to walk away.

You can accept graciously and still leave without buying; a warm "thank you, it’s beautiful, but not today" is completely acceptable and expected. If you never intend to buy, it’s kinder to decline the tea politely up front.

Genuine, no-strings hospitality does exist too, especially away from the tourist souks and in villages, where an invitation to tea is simply friendliness. Use ordinary judgement, don’t leave drinks or belongings unattended, and you can enjoy the ritual for what it is.