Rabat — L’Océan, one of Rabat’s coastal neighborhoods, has been named the second-coolest neighborhood in the world for 2026 by Time Out, placing the Moroccan capital alongside some of the world’s most dynamic urban destinations.
The district ranked second in Time Out’s annual list of the 40 “Coolest Neighbourhoods in the World,” released in September. It came just behind Jongno 3-ga in Seoul and ahead of neighborhoods in cities including Athens, Los Angeles and Glasgow.
Where the Atlantic meets local life
Time Out’s ranking looks beyond traditional tourist attractions, focusing instead on what makes neighborhoods lively places to live, explore and spend time. Its editors considered factors including food and drink, culture, independent businesses, liveability and sense of community.
For L’Océan, much of its appeal comes from the balance between its seaside setting and everyday neighborhood atmosphere. Stretching along Rabat’s Atlantic coast near the medina, the district combines residential streets with cafés, local shops, cultural spaces and areas for outdoor activities.
The neighborhood’s proximity to the ocean also gives it a special rhythm. Its palm-lined coastal promenade, beaches and sporting spaces sit alongside streets where residents go about their daily routines.
A neighborhood shaped by creativity
L’Océan’s evolving cultural identity is another element highlighted by Time Out. Street art has become part of the neighborhood’s visual landscape, while independent businesses and newer cafés have added to its contemporary character.
Among the areas drawing attention is Rue de Bruxelles, which has recently been transformed into a pedestrian-friendly space. The street has welcomed cafés and cultural venues, contributing to a more active public space while keeping the neighborhood’s local character.
The recognition also places L’Océan among an increasingly diverse selection of neighborhoods featured in Time Out’s 2026 list. The 40 neighborhoods span 26 countries and territories, ranging from historic urban districts to seaside communities and former industrial areas.
With L’Océan taking the second spot, Rabat gains a new international spotlight beyond its better-known landmarks such as the Kasbah of the Oudayas, the medina and Hassan Tower.
For Time Out, the neighborhood offers another way to experience Morocco’s capital, one shaped by the Atlantic, independent local life and a growing creative energy.
