Why visit
Rabat is Morocco's calmer coastal capital, with the Kasbah of the Udayas, Hassan Tower, gardens, and Atlantic light. It gives a more restrained contrast to Marrakech, Fes, and Casablanca.
How to use this result
Use it as a capital-city prompt
Rabat is useful when you want a city-level starting point in Morocco. Check whether the capital is the best arrival city, a practical transfer point, or mainly a geography and planning reference.
Check practical trip fit
Before planning around Rabat, compare airport access, local transport, time zone, neighborhood choices, weather, safety guidance, and whether another city in Morocco better matches the trip style.
Rabat at a glance
City population
1.7 million
Elevation
46 m
151 ft
Time zone
UTC+1
Africa/Casablanca
Airport
RBA
Rabat-Salé Airport
Morocco at a glance
Country center
32.0°, -5.0°
Coast
Has coastline
Country area
446,550 km²
172,414 mi²
Country population
37.8 million
85/km²
Subregion
Northern Africa
Currency
Moroccan dirham (د.م.)
MAD
Dial
+212
Languages
Arabic, Berber
Demonym
Moroccan
Internet
.ma
UN
Member state
ISO code
MA / MAR
Where in the world
32.0° - -5.0°
Morocco
Open in Google Maps
Click the map to open in Google Maps. Outline via svg-maps/world - CC BY 4.0
Did you know
- Rabat's historic core, including the Kasbah of the Udayas and Hassan Tower area, is UNESCO-listed.
- The city sits where the Bou Regreg River meets the Atlantic Ocean.
- The Hassan Tower minaret has stood unfinished since construction stopped at its patron's death in 1199.
- Casablanca is the commercial capital even though Rabat is the political capital: Morocco is one of only 11 countries where the largest city is not the capital.
- The Hassan II Mosque in Casablanca has a minaret 210 m tall: the tallest in the world.
Bordering Morocco
Traveler notes
- Rabat's historic core is UNESCO-listed
- The Kasbah of the Udayas overlooks the Bou Regreg river mouth
- The city is easy to pair with Casablanca by train
Plan checks
- Choose a neighborhood first: many capitals have tourist centers that are not the best places to stay.
- Public transport passes usually beat taxis and rideshares for multi-day visits.
- Reserve top restaurants 2–4 weeks out and plan two standout meals per city.
- Check opening days. Major sites close on Mondays or Tuesdays in many countries.
Explore more
Facts last reviewed June 2026 against GeoNames and national statistics sources. See the editorial policy for how destination data is maintained.
Frequently asked about Rabat
What currency is used in Rabat?
Rabat uses the Moroccan dirham (د.م.), ISO code MAD.
What languages are spoken in Morocco?
The primary languages are Arabic and Berber.
What is the international calling code for Morocco?
The calling code is +212.
When is the best time to visit Rabat?
Mar–May, Sep–Nov. Check current weather and local events before booking.
What airport serves Rabat?
Rabat-Salé Airport (IATA: RBA).
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