Rabat: Balancing Conservation and Regeneration for Healthy Incusive Neighbourhoods

Verdini, G., Mathewson, D., Navarro, L., El Ganadi, Y., Bkiri, I., Guerrieri, P. and Mosca, F. 2026. Rabat: Balancing Conservation and Regeneration for Healthy Incusive Neighbourhoods. Urban Design. (178) Issue 178 - Spring 2026.

TitleRabat: Balancing Conservation and Regeneration for Healthy Incusive Neighbourhoods
TypeJournal article
AuthorsVerdini, G., Mathewson, D., Navarro, L., El Ganadi, Y., Bkiri, I., Guerrieri, P. and Mosca, F.
Abstract

Rabat is a city undergoing rapid transformation. Over the last two decades, new urban and architectural projects have profoundly transformed its image, positioning the city as an emerging and dynamic urban hub in the global south. The recognition of its urban heritage, both the ancient medina and the colonial French ville nouvelle, as UNESCO World Heritage Sites, has ensured the conservation of a large sector of the city centre. However, urban developments have taken place unabated, materialising in new high-end residential and commercial projects alongside flagship architectural interventions– for example, the Opera House by Zaha Hadid and the new Mohammed VI Tower situated within the Bouregreg River Valley, raising concerns on how to maintain a balance between the protection of the city’s historic character, its natural environmental, and the growth of its contemporary developments.

KeywordsUrban Regeneration; Urban Health; Heritage; Rabat; Morocco
Article numberIssue 178 - Spring 2026
JournalUrban Design
Journal citation(178)
Year2026
PublisherUrban Design Group
Publication dates
PublishedMay 2026

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