Dar al-Makhzen, the Royal Palace of Rabat, is the primary residence of King Mohammed VI and the administrative seat of the Makhzen — Morocco's royal court. It was rebuilt in the early 19th century by Moulay Abd al-Rahman and heavily extended through the 20th century. The palace itself is closed to the public, but visitors can walk into the Mechouar — the huge walled parade ground in front — to photograph the green-tiled gates, the Royal Guard, and the white palace facade. The most photographed gate is Bab Soufara.
Why visit
It's the closest most visitors get to a living Moroccan royal residence, and the Mechouar itself is the grandest plaza in Rabat. The contrast between the white palace walls, green tiles, ceremonial gates, and pin-neat Royal Guards is striking — and genuinely ceremonial, not recreated for tourists.
What to expect
A vast rectangular walled plaza, entered through a tall pointed arch. The palace occupies the far side, set back behind a low wall and several ornate gates. The Mechouar is used for official ceremonies, including the king's weekly Friday prayer procession from palace to mosque — if you happen to catch it, it's an extraordinary thing to witness.
Best time
Mid-morning, a weekday, for quiet parade-ground atmosphere and good light on the palace facade. Fridays around midday during the king's residence, expect the area to be more controlled.
How to combine
Pair with a walk to Bab Rouah and along the Almohad wall, or continue on to Chellah a few minutes south. Not typically combined with the Hassan esplanade on the same walk — they're 2 km apart.
Price range
Free, and limited: there is no ticket for the Royal Palace of Rabat because the interior is not open to visitors. It is the working official residence of the King, not a museum.
What you can do costs nothing — walking the Mechouar esplanade in daylight and looking at the ceremonial gates and the Ahl Fas Mosque from a distance. Follow the guards on where you may stand and photograph.
Anyone offering to get you inside for a fee is not selling anything real.
No. The palace is a working royal residence and remains closed to all visitors. You can, however, walk into the Mechouar — the big walled parade ground in front of it — and view the gates and facade from a distance.
Yes, from across the Mechouar and of the exterior gates. Do not photograph the Royal Guard up close without their consent, and step back when they gesture you to.
Enter through the monumental Bab al-Rouah-ward arch off Avenue Yacoub al-Mansour. Taxis recognise "Mechouar" or "palais royal." It's a 15-minute walk from Hassan Tower.
Yes — the Ahl Fas Mosque is inside the walls (non-Muslims cannot enter), as is the Royal College and the royal guesthouses. You'll see them from the Mechouar.
