Public Transportation: Rabat

Tramway Tramway de Rabat-Salé

Rabat's most prominent public transport is its tramway, complemented by a bus network. The tram is clean, efficient, and covers main arteries, connecting major parts of Rabat with its twin city, Salé, across the Bou Regreg River.

The trams are modern, air-conditioned, and comfortable. They are an excellent way to access many tourist sites.

Routes & Ticketing

Routes: Two main lines, T1 and T2, connect areas including Hassan Tower and the Royal Palace.
Hubs: Place Bab El Had and Rabat Ville station connect to the national train network.
Ticketing: Purchase rechargeable "Carte Irtiyah" or single-use tickets at stations. Approx. MAD 6 per journey.
Hours & Frequency: Generally 6 AM to 10 PM daily, every 8-10 minutes during peak hours.

Accessibility

Newer tram cars are accessible for travelers with mobility needs, with level boarding and designated spaces.

Efficient Navigation

Use Google Maps for real-time tram directions and routes. A rechargeable card is more convenient for frequent use.

Buses ALSA City

ALSA City local bus service covers areas not reached by tramway. Buses can be crowded, but offer a local experience. Tickets are cash-only from the driver (MAD 5-7).

Overall Accessibility & Tips

Accessibility Challenges

Some bus routes and older city parts (Medina, Kasbah) are challenging due to uneven terrain, narrow alleys, and stairs.
Specific accessibility services are limited; inquire with individual attractions.
Ask for directions for bus routes; they can be complex.

Efficient Bus Travel

Have small cash denominations ready for bus tickets.
Confirm your bus stop and route before boarding.
Locals are often willing to assist with directions.

Public Transport Takeaways

Tram is Modern

Clean and efficient for main routes.

Buses Expand Coverage

Access areas beyond tram lines.

Cash for Buses

Have small bills ready for bus fares.

Google Maps for Trams

Good for real-time navigation.

Taxis & Ride-Sharing

Taxis are a common and convenient way to get around Rabat.

Petit Taxis

Small, light blue cars operating within city limits (up to 3 passengers).
Insist on the meter ("compteur") or negotiate fare before journey. Fares increase by 50% after 8 PM.
Hail them on the street or find at designated stands. Short rides are MAD 10-30 on meter.
Always have small cash denominations ready.

Grand Taxis & Ride-Sharing

Larger, older cars (often Mercedes-Benz) for shared rides on fixed routes or longer inter-city journeys.
Private-hire a grand taxi for a higher, negotiated fare. Operate from specific ranks. Shared ride Rabat-Salé approx. MAD 7-10 per person.
Ride-Sharing Apps: Careem exists but is less prevalent in Rabat. Uber is not operational. Traditional taxis remain the main option.
Use licensed taxis. Be firm but polite with pricing.

Safety Considerations for Taxis

Always use licensed taxis.
For Petit Taxis, insist on the meter or agree on a fare upfront.
For Grand Taxis, confirm shared/private ride and agree fare beforehand.

Avoid drivers who refuse the meter for Petit Taxis.
Be aware of potential overcharging for tourists; a firm but polite demeanor helps.
Always agree on the fare for a Grand Taxi before you begin your journey to avoid any misunderstandings. For Petit Taxis, insist on the meter (compteur).

Taxi Payment & Availability

Cash Only

Taxis in Rabat accept only cash payments. Small bills are helpful.

Hailing Taxis

Petit taxis are hailed on the street or found at taxi stands. Grand taxis are at specific ranks.

Operating Hours

Taxis are generally available throughout the day and evening, but fares increase after 8 PM.

Rental Options

Other rental options exist for specific needs.

Car Rental

Requirements: Valid national driver's license, International Driving Permit (IDP), credit card for deposit.
Companies: Hertz, Avis, Europcar, Sixt have offices at RBA, CMN, and city center. Local Moroccan agencies also operate. Check DiscoverCars.com.
Cost: MAD 200-500 per day for a standard car. Insurance options available.
Age: Minimum age typically 21 or 25, depending on company and vehicle category.

Driving Laws & Parking

Driving Side: Drive on the right side of the road. Seatbelts are mandatory.
Speed Limits: 60 km/h (urban), 100 km/h (national), 120 km/h (highways).
Parking: Challenging near Medina. Paid lots available outside old city walls.
Drinking and driving is strictly prohibited.

Motorcycle, Scooter, & Bicycle Rentals

Motorcycles/Scooters

Less common in Rabat and generally not recommended for tourists due to challenging traffic.

Not ideal for city traffic.

Bicycle Sharing

Official city-wide programs are limited. Some hotels or specialized shops may offer rentals.

Limited availability.

Bike Lanes

Rabat has some dedicated bike lanes, especially along the riverfront Corniche, pleasant for cycling.

Enjoyable in specific areas.

Walking & Cycling

Pedestrian-Friendly Areas

The Medina and Kasbah of the Udayas are best explored on foot; narrow, winding alleys are car-free.
The Corniche along the Bou Regreg River offers a pleasant, flat walking path.
The area around Hassan Tower and the Mausoleum of Mohammed V is pedestrian-friendly.

Walking Tours & Cycling Safety

Many local guides offer walking tours for historical context and hidden corners.
Rabat has cycling lanes along the Corniche and some main avenues.
Cycling in heavy city traffic can be challenging; not for inexperienced riders.

No-Go Areas & Precautions

Avoid walking alone in poorly lit or deserted areas, especially in less-frequented parts of the Medina after dark.
Exercise caution in areas with heavy vehicle traffic, where pedestrian crossings may not be respected.
Be mindful of aggressive driving habits if cycling in traffic.
Prioritize personal safety over convenience in unfamiliar areas at night.

Always be aware of your surroundings, even in seemingly safe areas.
Plan your routes in advance, especially for evening walks.
Consider guided tours for exploration of complex areas.
Avoid distractions like headphones when walking in busy or unfamiliar areas.

Specialized Transportation

Rabat offers a few unique transport options for sightseeing or crossing the river.

Tour Buses & Water Transport

A hop-on hop-off tourist bus service operates in Rabat.
This provides a way to see major attractions at your own pace, with commentary.
Small boats offer quick and scenic crossings of the Bou Regreg River between Rabat and Salé.
The boat ride offers a different perspective of the cities and the river mouth.

Accessibility Services

Newer infrastructure like the tramway is generally accessible.
Older areas and many traditional buildings pose challenges due to stairs and uneven surfaces.
Specific accessibility services for travelers with mobility needs are limited.
Contact individual attractions and accommodations to arrange assistance in advance.

Local Transportation Options Comparison

Tramway

Modern, clean, efficient for connecting major city points, and Rabat-Salé crossings.

Cost: MAD 6
Limited coverage beyond main areas.
Good accessibility.

Local Bus ALSA

Extensive network, very cheap. Best for reaching areas off tram lines and budget travel.

Cost: MAD 5-7
Can be crowded and less frequent.
Less accessible.

Petit Taxi

Convenient, door-to-door, metered. Good for short distances within the city and evening transport.

Cost: MAD 10-30
Can be hard to hail.
Meter disputes possible.

More Transport Options

Grand Taxi

Shared: Affordable for inter-city travel (MAD 7-10 local). Less comfortable, fixed routes.
Private: Door-to-door, direct, comfortable (MAD 150-700+). Most expensive.
Agree on fare before starting journey.

Walking & Car Rental

Walking: Free, immersive, best for Medinas and Kasbah. Can be tiring, confusing, hot.
Car Rental: Flexibility, access to rural areas (MAD 200-500/day). Challenging city driving/parking.
Not recommended for inexperienced city drivers.

Unique Transport Experiences

Rabat provides specific ways to explore the city and its surroundings, adding to the travel experience.

Hop-on Hop-off Bus

Offers a convenient way to see major attractions.
Includes informative commentary about the sights.
Tickets are typically valid for 24 or 48 hours.
Flexibility to explore at your own pace.

Bou Regreg River Boats

Small boat taxis for quick and scenic crossings.
Connects Rabat and Salé across the river.
Offers unique views of both city skylines and the river mouth.
A very inexpensive local transport option.

Walking Tours

Explore the Medina, Kasbah, and historical sites on foot with a local guide for insights.

Cycling the Corniche

Enjoy the dedicated bike lanes along the riverfront Corniche for a relaxed ride.

Modern Tram System

Rabat's tram is a modern and efficient way to travel between city areas.

Navigating with Ease

General Transit Tips

Always use reliable navigation apps for real-time information.
Keep small change for bus fares and minor purchases.
Basic French or Arabic phrases can be helpful when communicating with drivers.

Safety on the Move

Secure your belongings, especially on crowded public transport.
Be aware of your surroundings, specifically at night or in unfamiliar areas.
Politely but firmly decline unwanted solicitations.

Your Rabat Journey

Explore Rabat with confidence, utilizing its diverse transport options.

Each mode of travel presents an unique way to experience the city's charm and vibrancy.

Public Transportation