Visiting Morocco

About Morocco

The Kingdom of Morocco is a country in the Maghreb region of North Africa. The country’s capital is Rabat, and its largest city is Casablanca.

The official and predominant religion is Islam. Morocco has two official languages: Arabic and Amazigh. French is also spoken and understood by almost all Moroccans.

Time Zone: GMT+1

Electricity Voltage and Plugs

Morocco operates on a 220V supply voltage and 50Hz. The country is associated with Type C and Type E plug sockets.

Visas and Vaccines

Visa requirements

Travelers to Morocco from certain countries do not require an entry visa; click here for a list of visa-exempt countries. Nationals of countries that are not visa-exempt must obtain a visa from the embassy or consulate of Morocco in their country of residence. Please note that visa requirements depend on the country of residence; therefore, participants should contact the Moroccan Embassy or Consulate in their respective country of residence to obtain the required information.

E-Visas

The E–Visa for Morocco is an electronic visa introduced in July 2022 for over 45 eligible nationalities. For information about e-visas for Morocco, visit: https://www.acces-maroc.ma/

Those with valid USA, UK, Canada and Schengen visas can apply for and obtain their visas through this link. After opening the link, they must choose "Professional/Business" instead of "conference" to complete their applications.

Vaccines

If you are entering Morocco from a country where yellow fever is endemic, you must present a valid yellow fever vaccination certificate upon arrival in Morocco. Although proof of COVID-19 vaccination is no longer required for entry into Morocco, all participants are strongly encouraged to be fully vaccinated to attend the Africa Investment Forum.

Mobile service and Sim cards

Morocco has three main mobile service providers – Maroc Telecom, Orange Morocco, and Inwi. Prepaid SIM cards can be purchased on arrival at most international airports in the country. Air time (credit or top-up) is available at stores and re-seller shops and kiosks in every town and city across the country.

About Rabat

Rabat, the capital of Morocco, serves as its political and administrative center. Located along the Atlantic Ocean, Rabat is known for its blend of historical and modern landmarks, including ancient ruins, grand palaces, and lush gardens. The city's medina, a UNESCO World Heritage site, features narrow, winding streets and bustling souks where visitors can explore traditional Moroccan textiles, pottery, and handicrafts. Rabat is also home to iconic landmarks such as Hassan Tower, a minaret dating back to the 12th century, and the Kasbah of the Udayas, an ancient fortress with picturesque views of the Atlantic Ocean.

Rabat, a city of culture and education, hosts several universities and cultural institutions, including Mohammed V University. As the national seat of the government and the residence of the King of Morocco, it holds significant political importance. Rabat is also a vibrant cultural hub, with museums, theaters, and music festivals celebrating Morocco’s rich heritage. The city is also about an hour’s drive, or a 55- minute train ride, from Casablanca, the country’s main commercial and business hub.

Climate of Rabat

Rabat enjoys a mild Mediterranean climate, characterised by warm, dry summers and mild, wet winters. Summers (June-September) have pleasant temperatures, typically ranging from 25°C to 30°C (77°F to 86°F), making it more temperate than other Moroccan cities. Winters (December-February) are mild, with average temperatures around 12°C to 17°C (54°F to 63°F). The climate makes Rabat an ideal destination for year-round visits. Spring and autumn are particularly pleasant times to explore the city.

Useful Telephone Numbers

Police: 19 (from a landline) and 112 (from mobile phones).
Fire brigade: 15 (from a landline) or 150 (from mobile phones).
Ambulance: 15

Airports and Travel

Airports

Rabat-Salé Airport (RBA) is the main airport serving the city. It is located about eight kilometres northeast of the city centre. The airport offers both domestic and international flights, connecting Rabat with major cities in Europe and other parts of the world.

Mohammed V International Airport, Morocco's busiest airport, serves the city of Casablanca and provides a wide range of domestic flights alongside international connections to Europe, Africa, North America, Asia, and the Arabian Gulf. Conveniently located approximately 115 km from Rabat, the journey takes around 90 minutes by car.

Ground Transportation

The Bank in collaboration with the Moroccan authorities have organized ground transportation services from Casablanca and Rabat airports to the retained hotels. Kindly provide your flight details in advance to facilitate your travel.

Domestic flights to Rabat

There are regular domestic flights between Rabat and other Moroccan cities, such as Marrakech, and Agadir, operated by Royal Air Maroc.

Trains

Rabat is well connected by train to other major cities in Morocco. The high-speed Al Boraq train between Rabat and Casablanca takes about one hour, and from Rabat to Tangier takes about an hour and 15 minutes. Trains also run regularly to Marrakech (around four hours duration) and Fes (about 2.5 hours). For more information, visit ONCF's official website.

Hospitals

For comprehensive information about hospitals in Rabat, please visit: www.sante.gov.ma

Hotels in Rabat

Conrad Arzana
Fairmont la Marina Rabat Salé
The Ritz Carlton
Four Seasons Rabat
La Tour Hassan Rabat
Hotel Farah
Hotel Rabat
Hotel Belere Rabat
Atlantic Agdal
Rive Hotel
Soundouss Hotel Rabat
MGallery Le Diwan Rabat
NJ Hotel
Onomo Hotel Rabat Terminus
Onomo Hotel Rabat Medina
Hotel Executive Boutique
Hotel La Capitale
Hotel Imperial

Getting around in Rabat

Walking

Rabat’s medina and central areas are best explored on foot. The city is pedestrian-friendly, with many of its main attractions, like the Kasbah of the Udayas and Hassan Tower, within walking distance of one another.

Taxis

Rabat has two types of taxis: petit taxis (small taxis) and grands taxis (large taxis). Petit taxis are metered and are generally used for short trips within the city. Grands taxis operate on fixed routes or can be rented for longer distances or trips to other cities.

Buses

Rabat has a network of public buses that connect various parts of the city and neighbouring areas. The buses are operated by Alsa, and fares are reasonable, making them a popular mode of transport for locals and tourists alike. Visit Alsa’s official website.

Places of Interest

Medina of Rabat and Kasbah of the Udayas The Medina of Rabat, a UNESCO World Heritage site, offers a glimpse into Morocco’s rich history and culture. The nearby Kasbah of the Udayas, a 12th-century fortress overlooking the Atlantic Ocean, is known for its beautiful Andalusian gardens and charming blue and white streets. Both attractions are free to visit and are popular for their historical significance and picturesque views.
Hassan Tower and Mausoleum of Mohammed V Hassan Tower, a 12th-century minaret, is one of Rabat’s most iconic landmarks. Adjacent to it is the Mausoleum of Mohammed V, a royal tomb that houses the remains of King Mohammed V and his sons, King Hassan II and Prince Abdallah. The site is renowned for its stunning architecture and is a must-visit in Rabat.
Chellah Necropolis The Chellah is the site of ancient Roman and medieval ruins located just outside Rabat city center. It offers a peaceful escape with its lush gardens and historical remnants from Roman and Islamic periods, providing insight into Rabat's rich history.

Some Museums in Rabat

Mohammed VI Museum of Modern and Contemporary Art - showcases a wide range of Moroccan modern art, from paintings to sculpture.
The National Archaeological Museum - exhibits artifacts from Morocco’s prehistoric period through to the Islamic era.
Villa des Arts - A cultural center hosting contemporary art exhibitions, music concerts, and cultural events.
Rabat Museum of Natural History - Features exhibits of Morocco’s natural history, including geological and zoological specimens.

Rabat’s blend of modernity and tradition, along with its pleasant climate and cultural richness, makes it a unique destination for travellers interested in exploring Morocco’s heritage and contemporary life.