Regal Splendor of the Royal Palace of Rabat

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

• I'd like to see the menu, pleaseأريد رؤية القائمة، من فضلك
  [urid ru'yat alqaimah, min fadlik]
• I don't eat meatأنا لا آكل اللحم
  [ana la aakul allahm]
• Cheers!في صحتك!
  [fi sahtik!]
• I would like to pay, pleaseأريد أن أدفع، من فضلك
  [urid an adfa', min fadlik]

• Help!النجدة!
  [alnajdah!]
• Go away!انصرف!
  [ansarif!]
• Call the Police!اتصل بالشرطة!
  [atasil bialshurta!]
• Call a doctor!اتصل بالطبيب!
  [atasil bialtabib!]
• 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 أتطلع
  [ana faqat atatallaa]
• How much is it?بكم هذا؟
  [bikam hadha?]
• That's too expensiveهذا غالي جدا
  [hadha ghali jiddan]
• Can you lower the price?هل يمكنك خفض السعر؟
  [hal yumkinuk khafd als'ar?]

• What time is it?كم الساعة؟
  [kam alsaa'ah?]
• It's one o'clockالواحدة
  [alwahidah]
• Half past (10)العاشرة والنصف
  [al'ashirah walinusf]
• Morningالصباح
  [alssabah]
• Afternoonالظهر
  [alzuhur]
• Eveningالمساء
  [almasa']
• Yesterdayأمس
  [ams]
• Todayاليوم
  [alyawm]
• Tomorrowغدا
  [ghadan]
• 1واحد
  [wahid]
• 2اثنان
  [ithnaan]
• 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'anaan?]
• Can you show me (on the map)?هل يمكنك أن تريني (على الخريطة)؟
  [hal yumkinuk 'an turiyanii (ala alkharitah)?]
• When's the next (bus)?متى يأتي الحافلة التالية؟
  [mata yaati alhafilat altaliyah?]
• A ticket (to ....)تذكرة (إلى...)
  [tadhkirah (ila...)]

The Royal Palace of Rabat, known as the 'Dar al-Makhzen,' was established in the 17th century during the reign of Sultan Moulay Ismail. This period marked the beginning of the Alaouite dynasty's prominence in Morocco. The palace was built to serve as a residence for the Sultan and a center for government, reflecting the architectural styles of the time, which combined Moroccan and Andalusian influences.

Throughout the 19th and 20th centuries, the Royal Palace underwent several renovations and expansions. Notably, during the reign of Sultan Mohammed V in the early 20th century, the palace was modernized to reflect both Moroccan heritage and contemporary needs, blending traditional craftsmanship with modern materials. This period also saw the introduction of beautiful gardens and courtyards, enhancing the palace's elegance.

The Royal Palace played a significant role during the struggle for Moroccan independence in the mid-20th century. Sultan Mohammed V became a symbol of national unity and resistance against French colonial rule. His exile in 1953 and subsequent return in 1955 were pivotal moments in Morocco's fight for freedom, galvanizing public support and leading to independence in 1956.

Today, the Royal Palace serves not only as the official residence of the King of Morocco but also as a venue for important state ceremonies and diplomatic functions. It embodies Moroccan heritage and culture, showcasing traditional art, architecture, and gardens. The palace grounds are often used for royal events, reflecting the ongoing importance of the monarchy in Moroccan society.

In recent years, efforts have been made to preserve the historical and cultural significance of the Royal Palace and its surroundings. The Moroccan government has invested in the restoration of the palace's architecture and gardens, ensuring that this iconic landmark remains a vital part of Rabat's identity and a testament to Morocco's rich history.

The Royal Palace of Rabat is centrally located in Rabat, making it easily accessible from various neighborhoods. If you are coming from the Medina, you can take a taxi or walk, as it is approximately 20 minutes on foot. From the Gare de Rabat Ville, public buses (lines 3 and 4) and taxis are available, with a travel time of around 10-15 minutes. Additionally, the nearby tramway station (line T2) provides convenient access from other parts of Rabat.

The area around the Royal Palace is pedestrian-friendly, allowing visitors to explore on foot. Public transport options include local buses and trams, which are reliable and affordable. Taxis are also readily available, but it's advisable to negotiate fares beforehand. For a more local experience, consider renting a bicycle; Rabat offers various bike rental services, and cycling is a popular way to navigate the city.

Rabat is generally considered a safe city for tourists. However, it is wise to remain vigilant, especially in crowded places such as markets and bus stations. Areas like the outskirts of the Medina may have higher crime rates, and it's best to avoid them at night. Petty crime such as pickpocketing can occur, so keep your belongings secure and be cautious of your surroundings.

In case of an emergency, dial 19 for police assistance or 15 for ambulance services. It is advisable to have travel insurance that covers emergencies. Hospitals and clinics are available in the city, and pharmacies can provide over-the-counter medications for minor health issues. Know the location of the nearest hospital and keep emergency numbers handy.

Fashion: Do dress modestly, especially when visiting the Royal Palace and other religious sites. Avoid wearing revealing clothing. Religion: Do respect local customs; although the palace is not a religious site, showing reverence is appreciated. Public Transport: Do be polite and offer your seat to the elderly. Don't eat or drink on public transport. Greetings: Do greet with a handshake and a smile. Eating & Drinking: Do try local dishes at nearby cafes and restaurants. Don't refuse food offered by locals, as it may be seen as impolite.

To experience the Royal Palace area like a local, visit the nearby Andalusian Gardens for a relaxing stroll. Engage with local shopkeepers and artisans in the surrounding neighborhoods, where you can find unique crafts and souvenirs. Don't miss the chance to try traditional Moroccan mint tea in a local café, and if you can, attend any cultural events or festivals happening in the area during your visit.