Rabat Safety Guide
Health, security, and travel safety information
Emergency Numbers
Save these numbers before your trip.
Healthcare
What to know about medical care in Rabat.
Healthcare System
Morocco has a two-tier healthcare system: public (often under-resourced and crowded) and private (higher standard, preferred by most tourists and expats). In Rabat, there are several modern private clinics and hospitals.
Hospitals
Recommended private facilities include: Clinique Internationale de Rabat (excellent standard, multilingual staff), and Polyclinique du Plateau. For serious emergencies requiring complex care, medical evacuation to Europe may be advised.
Pharmacies
Ubiquitous (sign is a green crescent). Pharmacists are highly trained and can diagnose minor ailments and prescribe many medications without a doctor's visit. They often speak French. Carry a copy of your prescription for any regular medications.
Insurance
Not legally required but HIGHLY RECOMMENDED. Ensure your policy includes complete medical coverage, medical evacuation (repatriation), and coverage for private hospitals.
Healthcare Tips
- Carry a basic first-aid kit including anti-diarrheal medication, rehydration salts, and any personal prescriptions.
- For minor issues, consult a pharmacist first; they are an excellent first point of care.
Common Risks
Be aware of these potential issues.
The most common issue for tourists. Occurs in crowded markets, on public transport, and in areas with high tourist footfall.
Chaotic traffic, scooters on sidewalks, and a lack of pedestrian right-of-way pose significant risks of accidents.
Traveler's diarrhea can occur from contaminated food/water or simply a change in diet.
Persistent vendors and unofficial guides who can become harassing or lead you to shops for commissions.
Scams to Avoid
Watch out for these common tourist scams.
A friendly local informs you that a major attraction (e.g., the Mausoleum) is closed for a prayer, ceremony, or holiday. They then offer to take you on a 'special' alternative tour, which ends at their friend's shop where you are pressured to buy.
The taxi driver claims the meter is broken and quotes an inflated price at the end of the journey, to/from the airport or train station.
At the train or bus station, someone grabs your luggage and carries it without being asked, then demands an exorbitant fee for the 'service'.
Safety Tips
Practical advice to stay safe.
Transportation
- Use official 'Petit Taxis' (blue in Rabat) within the city. Ensure the meter is running or agree on a price before departure.
- The Rabat-Salé tram is modern, safe, and efficient. Beware of pickpockets in crowded carriages.
- Avoid unlicensed 'Grand Taxis' for short city trips; they are for inter-city travel.
Money & Valuables
- Carry small amounts of cash (Moroccan Dirhams). Use ATMs inside banks or shopping centers during the day.
- Leave passports, extra cash, and valuables in a hotel safe. Carry a photocopy/photo of your passport's main page.
- Be discreet when handling money in public.
Cultural Sensitivity & General
- Dress modestly to respect local norms, when visiting religious sites (shoulders and knees covered).
- Ask permission before photographing people, women.
- Avoid public displays of affection, which are considered inappropriate.
- Download offline maps (Google Maps or Maps.me) to avoid looking conspicuously lost.
Information for Specific Travelers
Safety considerations for different traveler groups.
Women Travelers
Solo women travelers are common in Rabat and generally have safe visits. However, verbal street harassment (catcalling, comments) is unfortunately common, though it rarely escalates to physical confrontation.
- Dressing modestly (covering shoulders, chest, and knees) significantly reduces unwanted attention.
- Avoid walking alone in isolated areas, including beaches, after dark. Use reputable taxis at night.
- In cafes and restaurants, you may receive stares, but it's generally safe. Choosing busy, established places is best.
- A firm, ignored response to harassers is more effective than engaging.
LGBTQ+ Travelers
Homosexual acts are illegal under Article 489 of the Moroccan penal code, with penalties of up to 3 years imprisonment. The law is occasionally enforced, against locals.
- Exercise extreme discretion. Avoid public displays of affection of any kind.
- Be cautious when using dating apps, as entrapment, while not common for tourists, is a potential risk.
- Sharing accommodation as a same-sex couple is generally fine if you book one bed for a 'couple', but discretion at check-in is advised.
Travel Insurance
Critical due to the potential high cost of quality private healthcare and the possibility of medical evacuation for serious conditions. Also covers trip disruption, theft, and liability.
Travel insurance for adventurous travelers • Coverage in 200+ countries