Fez — Rabat has emerged as one of the world’s most compelling travel destinations for 2026, ranking second globally in a new list published by Time Out, a milestone that confirms the city’s growing cultural influence after years in the shadow of Marrakech.

The ranking places Morocco’s capital alongside destinations such as the Canadian Rockies, Hamburg, and Oaxaca, highlighting destinations that combine strong local identity with cultural renewal and distinctive visitor experiences. 

According to Time Out, Rabat stands out for the scale and ambition of its artistic and intellectual transformation, positioning the capital as a cultural epicenter not only within Morocco but across the wider region.

A long-awaited renaissance

For decades, Rabat played a secondary role in Morocco’s international tourism image, eclipsed by Marrakech’s global fame and Casablanca’s economic pull. That balance is now shifting. 

While cities such as Marrakech, Agadir, and Fez have already drawn sustained attention from travelers, Rabat is entering a new phase marked by large-scale cultural investment and international recognition.

Time Out’s editors point to this moment as a turning point, describing the city as one that has successfully aligned heritage, contemporary creativity, and urban renewal. This convergence has elevated Rabat from an administrative capital to a destination with a clear cultural narrative.

A landmark theater reshaping the city

Central to Rabat’s rise is the upcoming opening of the Théâtre Royal de Rabat, also known as the Grand Théâtre Mohammed VI, a major cultural complex designed by the late architect Zaha Hadid. Located in the Rabat–Salé area, the project forms part of the wider “Rabat, City of Light” development vision.

The theater includes a 1,800-seat main hall and a 7,000-seat outdoor amphitheater, positioning it among the most ambitious cultural venues on the African continent. Time Out describes the project as a symbol of Rabat’s creative ambitions and a cornerstone of its future role as a regional arts hub.

UNESCO recognition strengthens Rabat’s profile

Another decisive factor in the 2026 ranking is Rabat’s designation as UNESCO World Book Capital. The title will be officially celebrated in April, coinciding with World Book Day, and will bring a year-long program focused on reading, education, and knowledge sharing.

The city is planning several activities, including  an opening ceremony, literary workshops, masterclasses, and public reading events designed to engage residents and visitors alike. This recognition reinforces Rabat’s image as a city invested in culture, learning, and intellectual exchange.

A broader signal for Morocco

Rabat’s rise in Time Out’s 2026 ranking reflects a broader shift in how Morocco’s urban centers are perceived internationally. Rather than relying on a single flagship destination, the country is increasingly presenting a network of cities with distinct cultural identities.