MileHacker Logo
Rabat Travel Tips

Rabat Travel Tips

Rabat Rabat-sale-kenitra, Morocco Travel Guide

Communication Essentials

Local SIM cards and mobile providers aid staying connected. Internet access is available, and resources for translation are helpful.

Services

  • Local SIM cards from Maroc Telecom, Inwi, or Orange are easily available. Passport registration applies.
  • Wi-Fi is available in most hotels, riads, cafes, and restaurants. Mobile data is a reliable option.
  • Maroc Post (Poste Maroc) handles postal provisions in Rabat.

Language & Translation

Arabic (Darija) and Berber (Tamazight) are official. French is widely spoken. English is less common, but present in tourist areas.

Translation Tools

  • Google Translate app with offline language packs for Arabic and French is helpful.
  • Phrasebooks focusing on Moroccan Arabic/Darija or general French are useful.
  • Consider a Language learning app subscription before travel.

Essential Darija Phrases

A few phrases for everyday interactions.

Common Greetings & Questions

  • Hello (formal): Salam Alaikum (sa-LAM ah-LAY-koom)
  • Thank you: Shukran (SHOOK-ran)
  • How much?: Shhal? (SH-hal)

Business Hours & Schedules

Operating hours vary for different businesses. Religious and public holidays influence services.

General Timings

  • Shops (Souks): 9/10 AM, close for lunch (1-3 PM), reopen until 7 PM+.
  • Banks: Mon-Fri, 8:30 AM - 4:00 PM. ATMs are 24/7.
  • Restaurants: Lunch (12-3 PM), Dinner (7-10/23:00). Cafes open earlier, close later.

Holiday Impact & Access Resources

Holiday Considerations

  • Islamic Holidays: Dates vary annually. Businesses may close or reduce hours.
  • Ramadan: Reduced business hours. Eating/drinking in public is discouraged during fasting.
  • National Public Holidays: Fixed dates, may lead to closures for businesses and government offices.
  • Seasonal closures are rare for major attractions.

Airport Services & Compensation

  • Priority Pass for airport lounge access globally (Priority Pass).
  • Use compensair for flight compensation delays/cancellations compensation (Compensair).
  • Portable WiFi via Solis Wi-Fi.
  • eSIMs for travel from Airalo.

Budgeting & Costs

Gratuity for good service is customary.

Etiquette & Cultural Norms

Cultural sensitivity makes for positive interactions with locals. Your behavior reflects upon all visitors.

Greeting Customs

Handshakes are common between people of the same gender. A light hand on the heart after a handshake shows respect.

Attire Guidelines

Modest dress (shoulders and knees covered) is appreciated. Required in holy sites. Standard swimwear on beaches/hotel pools.

Photography

Ask permission before photographing individuals, especially women and children. Avoid military/police, government buildings.

Dining & Taboos

Use your right hand when eating from communal dishes. Avoid pointing feet at people or food.

Social Norms

  • Do not openly consume alcohol outside licensed establishments.
  • Public displays of affection are generally frowned upon.
  • Avoid politics or religion discussions unless initiated by locals.

Gender & LGBTQ+ Info

Women travelers are generally safe. Modest dress can reduce unwanted attention.

Considerations

  • Solo women may encounter stares or unsolicited comments. Ignoring them is often the approach.
  • Homosexuality is illegal in Morocco.
  • Public displays of affection between same-sex couples are not advised. Discretion is .

Moroccan Phrases

Greetings & Politeness

  • Hello (informal): Ahlan (AH-lan)
  • Please (to a man): Min fadlak (min FAD-lak)
  • Please (to a woman): Min fadlik (min FAD-leek)

Responses & Goodbyes

  • Yes: Na'am (NAH-am) / Wakha (WA-kha)
  • No: La (LAH)
  • Goodbye: Ma'a Salama (MAH ah sa-LA-ma)

Language Learning Opportunity

For learning basic phrases before your trip, consider a language learning app.

Accessibility Information

Rabat has accessibility progress, but challenges remain, specifically in older areas. Plan awareness is advisable if you have mobility needs.

Mobility Challenges

Older parts of Rabat, like the Medina and Kasbah, feature uneven cobblestone, narrow passageways, and steps.

Navigational Notes

  • These areas are difficult for wheelchair users or those with limited mobility.
  • Newer areas and modern hotels show greater accessibility.
  • The Rabat tramway is accessible with level boarding.

Accessible Transport & Sights

Some attractions are relatively flat. Cabs might or may not assist with folding wheelchairs.

Accessible Spots

  • Hassan Tower grounds and Mausoleum of Mohammed V are generally flat.
  • Certain recent museums have ramps and elevators.
  • Petit taxis accept folding wheelchairs.

Impairment Services

Limited specialized services are available for visual or hearing impairments.

Recommendations

  • Travel with a companion or join an organized tour.
  • Larger accommodations might have facilities or staff to assist.
  • Contact specific hotels/attractions directly for accessibility features.

Resources for Accessibility

Online forums for disabled travelers may offer personal accounts and advice.

Further Information

  • Personal accounts from other travelers.
  • No certain area organizations are detailed in the provided content.
  • Direct inquiry is the ideal method for specific needs.

Planning for Accessibility

Challenges

  • Older areas have uneven surfaces.
  • Many steps are present.
  • Not all taxi drivers assist with loading.

Important Notes

  • Limited specialized services.
  • Public displays of affection between same-sex couples are not advised.
  • Homosexuality is illegal.

Visual Context for Etiquette

Moroccan Script Example

  • Darija Arabic writing shows the local script.
  • AN illustrative of local communication.

Street Scenes & Prayer Call

  • Minaret with loudspeaker for call to prayer.
  • Moroccan street scene with a local family walking.

Direct Contact for Accessibility

Face-to-face with specific hotels, attractions, or tour operators for accessibility features is advisable in advance of your visit.

Next Up: Sustainable Travel in Rabat. Eco-Friendly, Responsible Tourism, Conservation