The Enchanting Kasbah of the Udayas in Rabat

• Helloسلام
  [salaam]
• Goodbyeوداعا
  [wadaa'an]
• Yesنعم
  [naam]
• Noلا
  [laa]
• Please/You're welcomeمن فضلك
  [min fadlik]
• Thank youشكرا
  [shukran]
• Excuse me/Sorryعذرا
  [aatharana]
• How are you?كيف حالك؟
  [kayfa haluk?]
• Fine. And you?بخير. وأنت؟
  [bikhayr. wa'anat?]
• Do you speak English?هل تتحدث الإنجليزية؟
  [hal tatahadath al'injlizia?]
• I don't understandلا أفهم
  [la afham]

• I'd like to see the menu, pleaseأريد أن أرى القائمة، من فضلك
  [urid an ara alqaimah, min fadlik]
• I don't eat meatأنا لا آكل اللحم
  [ana la aakul allahm]
• Cheers!في صحتك
  [fi sahtak]
• I would like to pay, pleaseأود أن أدفع، من فضلك
  [awad an adfae, min fadlik]

• Help!النجدة!
  [alnajadah!]
• Go away!انصرف!
  [ansarif!]
• Call the Police!اتصل بالشرطة!
  [atassil bialshurta!]
• Call a doctor!اتصل بطبيب!
  [atassil bitalib!]
• I'm lostلقد ضللت الطريق
  [laqad dalalt altariq]
• I'm illأنا مريض
  [ana mareed]

• I'd like to buy...أريد أن أشتري...
  [urid an ashtari...]
• I'm just lookingأنا فقط أتفرج
  [ana faqat atfarij]
• How much is it?كم يبلغ ثمنه؟
  [kam yablag thamanuh?]
• That's too expensiveهذا غالي جدا
  [hatha ghali jiddan]
• Can you lower the price?هل يمكنك خفض السعر؟
  [hal yumkinuk khaafid alsaeir?]

• What time is it?كم الساعة؟
  [kam alsaeah?]
• It's one o'clockالواحدة
  [alwahidah]
• Half past (10)العاشرة والنصف
  [al'aashirah walnisf]
• Morningالصباح
  [alsaabah]
• Afternoonبعد الظهر
  [ba'd aldhuhur]
• Eveningالمساء
  [almasa]
• Yesterdayأمس
  [ams]
• Todayاليوم
  [alyawm]
• Tomorrowغدا
  [ghadan]
• 1واحد
  [wahid]
• 2اثنان
  [ithnan]
• 3ثلاثة
  [thalatha]
• 4أربعة
  [arba'a]
• 5خمسة
  [khamsa]
• 6ستة
  [sitta]
• 7سبعة
  [sab'a]
• 8ثمانية
  [thamania]
• 9تسعة
  [tasia]
• 10عشرة
  [ashara]

• Where's a/the...?أين...
  [ayn...]
• What's the address?ما هو العنوان؟
  [ma huwa al'ainwan?]
• Can you show me (on the map)?هل يمكنك أن تريني (على الخريطة)؟
  [hal yumkinuk 'an tarini (ala alkharitah)?]
• When's the next (bus)?متى يأتي (الحافلة) التالية؟
  [mata yati (alhafilat) altaliat?]
• A ticket (to ....)تذكرة (إلى...)
  [tazkirah (ila...)]

The Kasbah of the Udayas was founded in the 12th century by the Almohads, serving as a fortress to protect the city of Rabat from naval attacks. This strategic location at the mouth of the Bou Regreg River allowed the Kasbah to control maritime trade routes and defend against incursions from the sea.

In the 17th century, the Kasbah became the stronghold of the Udayas, a powerful group of pirates and warriors. Under the Udayas, the Kasbah flourished as a hub of trade and piracy, with its inhabitants engaging in both legitimate commerce and privateering against European shipping. Their influence extended throughout the region, and the Kasbah became notable for its military and political significance.

The Kasbah of the Udayas is renowned for its unique architectural style, which blends Islamic and Andalusian influences. The narrow, winding streets are adorned with whitewashed houses featuring blue accents, reflecting the cultural heritage of the Udayas. The Kasbah also contains the historic Mosque of the Udayas, built in the 12th century, which showcases exquisite design and craftsmanship.

During the early 20th century, the Kasbah played a significant role in the Moroccan independence movement. The area became a gathering place for nationalist leaders and activists who sought to unify the country against colonial rule. The vibrant culture of the Kasbah, with its traditional music and art, contributed to the national identity that emerged during this period.

Today, the Kasbah of the Udayas is recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site and continues to be a symbol of Rabat's rich history. The area hosts cultural events and festivals, celebrating Moroccan traditions and arts. The picturesque gardens of the Kasbah, along with its panoramic views of the Atlantic Ocean, attract both locals and tourists, making it a vital part of Rabat's cultural landscape.

To reach the Kasbah of the Udayas from other neighborhoods in Rabat, you can take a taxi, which is the most convenient option and relatively inexpensive. If you prefer public transport, catch tram line 1 to the 'Bab El Had' stop, then walk approximately 10 minutes to the Kasbah. Alternatively, local buses also connect to the area, with several lines stopping near the Kasbah.

The Kasbah of the Udayas is best explored on foot due to its narrow streets and pedestrian-friendly layout. Bicycles can be rented nearby, and navigating by bike is an option, although caution is advised due to the cobblestone paths. Local taxis are available for longer distances, but many attractions within the Kasbah are within walking distance.

Rabat is generally safe for tourists, including the Kasbah of the Udayas. However, it’s advisable to stay aware of your surroundings, especially in crowded areas. Avoid poorly lit streets at night. While there are no specific high-crime areas targeting tourists within the Kasbah, petty theft can occur, so keep your belongings secure.

In case of an emergency, dial 19 for police assistance or 15 for medical emergencies. Familiarize yourself with the location of the nearest hospital, which is the Avicenne Hospital. It's recommended to have travel insurance that covers emergencies. Pharmacies are also available for minor health issues.

Fashion: Do dress modestly, especially in religious sites. Don't wear revealing clothing. Religion: Do respect local customs; covering the head is appreciated when entering mosques. Public Transport: Do offer your seat to elderly passengers and be respectful. Don't eat or drink on public transport. Greetings: Do greet locals with a handshake, and a slight bow of the head is respectful. Eating & Drinking: Do try local cuisine and accept food offerings graciously. Don't refuse hospitality, as it’s seen as impolite.

To experience the Kasbah of the Udayas like a local, visit the artisan shops and small cafes where you can enjoy traditional Moroccan mint tea. Engage with local artisans, who are often happy to share their craft techniques. Don't miss the stunning views from the Kasbah walls overlooking the Bou Regreg River and the Atlantic Ocean. Try to visit during the evening when the area is beautifully lit, and the atmosphere is lively.