Marriott Rabat Hotel
The Marriott Rabat Hotel is a sleek and modern property that’s part of the Bonvoy portfolio of hotels and connected to the bustling Arribat Center Mall. Our stay was a mix of business-class efficiency, practical luxury, and convenient access to both urban life and key landmarks.
As we approached the hotel, the first thing that struck me was its modern design-a sleek glass structure that could easily be mistaken for a high-end corporate hub. The Arribat Center, which is attached to the hotel, added to this urban feel, with its mix of shops, movie theater, and food court buzzing with activity. The lobby of the Marriott Rabat was spacious and bright, exuding the polished ambiance typical of international five-star properties. It didn’t scream luxury, but it did raise its voice to say “modern, classy, well taken care of.” It had an open, airy feel, with plenty of seating near Le Café Robuchon, a stylish kiosk offering coffee, pastries, and afternoon tea.
Check-in was smooth and efficient, handled with warmth by the front desk staff. My Bonvoy Titanium Elite status was acknowledged, granting us access to the M Club Lounge, a space exclusive to elite members and suite guests. Initially, we had booked a Standard Room, but after seeing the available options, we decided to upgrade to an Executive Suite for more space. The Marriott Rabat has 188 rooms, and while our suite was the entry-level option, the hotel also boasts Presidential and Diplomatic Suites for those seeking an even grander experience.
Stepping into the suite, the first thing we noticed was the sheer amount of space. A foyer with restroom, separate bedroom, a dedicated living area, and a hallway leading to a well-appointed restroom and closet area made it feel more like a small apartment than a hotel room. The decor was contemporary yet understated, with neutral tones, plush furniture, and sleek, modern touches.
The bed was king-sized and comfortable, with crisp white linens and soft, breathable sheets. A thoughtful selection of amenities was included: an espresso machine and kettle for morning coffee and Marriott’s standard "thisworks" bath products. What stood out was the attention to detail in the bathroom-not only were the essentials provided, but extras like a dental kit, loofah, and shower cap were already stocked, eliminating the need to call the front desk for small requests.
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Dining at the Marriott Rabat
The hotel features three main dining options, but we had time to try two of them.
Our first meal was at Le Grill Robuchon, part of the Joël Robuchon restaurant group, which added a layer of credibility to the culinary experience. We started with La Salade de Haricots Verts, a green bean salad topped with a fried egg and a wasabi vinaigrette that added just the right amount of heat. For the main course, we opted for burgers, which were well-executed and satisfying. Dinner at Uni Sushibar was an unexpected highlight. We started with mocktails and gyoza, followed by a beautifully plated selection of sushi and sashimi, topped with caviar, sesame seeds, and fresh herbs.
We also made two quick visits to the M Club Lounge, which, while crowded, provided complimentary appetizers and drinks. To be honest, the food was nothing extraordinary, but we mainly visited for the bottled water supply, which came in handy throughout our stay.
Exploring Rabat from the Marriott
The Marriott Rabat is not located in the Medina, but it’s well-connected to major landmarks. One morning, we took a quick 10-minute taxi ride to Hassan Tower, a striking yet unfinished 12th-century minaret that stands as one of Rabat’s most iconic landmarks. The walk was scenic and peaceful, offering a different side of Rabat away from the modern shopping centers and business hotels.
Hassan Tower is a minaret that tells the story of a grand architectural vision left incomplete. Commissioned by Sultan Abu Yusuf Yaqub al-Mansur in the late 12th century, the Hassan Tower was intended to be the tallest minaret in the world, standing at 86 meters (282 feet). However, construction halted after the sultan’s death in 1199, leaving the tower at just 44 meters (144 feet). Adjacent to the tower, the Mausoleum of Mohammed V houses the tombs of King Mohammed V and his sons, King Hassan II and Prince Abdallah, featuring a stunning blend of white marble, green-tiled roofs, and intricate zellige mosaics.
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After visiting Hassan Tower, we made our way toward Rabat’s Medina on foot, a fascinating blend of traditional Moroccan culture and a more relaxed, less tourist-driven atmosphere compared to the medinas of Marrakech or Fes. As we wandered through the winding alleys, we found a variety of small artisan shops, textile stalls, and spice vendors, each offering a glimpse into local craftsmanship. We stopped at a few stalls to admire handwoven rugs, brass lanterns, and ceramic tagines, each piece telling a story of Moroccan artistry.
Other Luxury Hotels in Rabat
1. Fairmont La Marina Rabat Salé Hotel
Nestled in the peaceful marina district, this 5-star resort perfectly combines contemporary design, discreet refinement and nods to Moroccan craftsmanship. The Fairmont La Marina Rabat Salé Hotel features a unique rooftop panorama, swimming pool, spa and varied gourmet restaurant offering. The sober, uncluttered decor in shades of white and gray plunges guests into the elegant world of contemporary minimalism, enhanced by magnificent works of art in the lobby.
- Luxury touches: Breathtaking view of the beach at Salé, especially at sunset, with a good cocktail!
- Swimming pool and beach: Rooftop pool with panoramic view. Close to the Marina and Salé Beach.
- Facilities: Spa, gym, bar, elevator, terrace, rooftop terrace.
2. Hotel Sofitel Rabat Jardin des Roses
Designed by Didier Gomez, the Hotel Sofitel Rabat Jardin des Roses harmoniously blends French design and Moroccan art, with bright, whimsical colors. This luxury establishment is set in 7 hectares of grounds where palm groves, eucalyptus forests, rose beds and miniature golf courses blend harmoniously. From your room, you’ll enjoy a panoramic view of one of these areas.
- Luxury touches: The incredible 1300 m² spa offers authentic hammam rituals and a wide range of treatments! The Golden Fish Restaurant is one of the best in town!
- Swimming pool and beach: Indoor heated infinity pool for adults only. Two outdoor pools, one of which is heated and overlooks rose gardens. Rabat beach 15 minutes away by car.
- Facilities: Club Millésime, spa, hair salon, VIP check-in, minigolf, 3 swimming pools, gym.
3. Hotel Conrad Arzana
Nestled on the shores of the Atlantic coastline, the luxurious design and organic architecture of Hotel Conrad Arzana offer breathtaking ocean views from the many spacious rooms and suites. The setting is breathtaking amid lush gardens overlooking a peaceful lagoon and small beach.
- Luxury touches: The pool and solarium from a platform overlooking the ocean. The spa offering state-of-the-art treatments.
- Swimming pool and beach: Direct access to Plage du Petit Val d’Or. View of private lagoon. Three outdoor pools, including one for children.
- Facilities: Spa with sauna, steam room, Jacuzzi, swimming pools, fitness center.
4. Hotel La Tour Hassan Palace
Built in 1912, this historic establishment embodies Moroccan refinement. From the moment we entered, the décor impressed us: sculpted colonnades, sparkling zellige mosaics and tree-lined patios create an atmosphere worthy of the great Arab-Andalusian mansions.
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- Luxury touches: Refinement and opulence of decoration. The magnificent terrace, shaded by majestic palm trees, is a veritable haven of serenity.
- Swimming pool and beach: Outdoor pool in Andalucia gardens.
- Facilities: Elevator, spa, fitness room, jazz bar, terraces, function rooms, Andalucia gardens with fountains and palm trees, swimming pool, hairdressing salon.
Here's a comparison table of the reviewed hotels based on key features:
| Hotel | Location | Unique Features | Pool | Spa |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Marriott Rabat Hotel | Connected to Arribat Center Mall | Modern design, convenient access to shopping | Yes | No |
| Fairmont La Marina Rabat Salé Hotel | Marina de Rabat-Salé | Rooftop panorama, refined setting | Rooftop pool | Yes |
| Hotel Sofitel Rabat Jardin des Roses | Souissi Ambassadeurs | French design, extensive gardens | Indoor and outdoor pools | Yes |
| Hotel Conrad Arzana | Atlantic coast outside Rabat | Ocean views, organic architecture | Three outdoor pools | Yes |
| Hotel La Tour Hassan Palace | Hassan, historic center | Historic palace, Moroccan refinement | Outdoor pool | Yes |
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