Mohammed V International Airport serves as Morocco’s busiest air hub connecting global travelers to Casablanca. Opened in 1943, the facility handles millions of passengers annually with terminals designed for efficiency and comfort. Located just 30 kilometers southeast of the city center, it features modern amenities including duty-free shops dining options and direct transit links to downtown areas. The airport supports both domestic flights and international routes making it a key gateway for business tourism and cultural exchange across North Africa.
| Power Grid: |
220 V, 50 Hz Plug: Type C , Type E
Type C:
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| Currency: |
Moroccan Dirham (MAD) £1 ≈ MAD 13.11 |
| Cashless info: |
Rating 3/5
Cashless payments are increasingly accepted in Morocco, especially in urban areas and tourist destinations. However, cash is still widely used, particularly in rural areas.
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| eSIM providers: |
Best value: Saily Flexibility: Airalo Read our in-depth comparison |
| Tipping: | Tipping is customary in Morocco, with a standard of 10-15% in restaurants. Taxi drivers expect small tips, and hotel staff appreciate a few dirhams for their service. |
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| Public drinking: | Public drinking is prohibited in Morocco, and it is advisable to consume alcohol in licensed venues such as bars and hotels. |
| Public smoking: | Smoking is allowed in many public areas, including outdoor cafes and restaurants, but may be restricted in some indoor public places. |
| Eid al-Fitr (dates vary) |
A religious celebration marking the end of Ramadan |
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| Throne Day (30 July) |
Celebrating the King’s ascension to the throne |
| Emergency contact: | Emergency Numbers: 19 (Police), 177 (Gendarmerie), 15 (Fire, Ambulance) |
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| Taxi apps: | Uber, Lyft, Careem |
| Other: | Morocco offers an exciting mix of cultural experiences, historic sites, and natural beauty. Visitors should prepare for heat and the possibility of basic infrastructure outside major cities. |
Mohammed V International Airport is Morocco’s busiest airport and an essential hub for the country’s flagship airline, Royal Air Maroc. Located about 30 kilometers south of Casablanca's city center, it handles over 7 million passengers yearly, making it one of Africa’s major gateways. The airport's long history, stretching back to World War II as a U.S. airfield, blends with ongoing modern expansions aimed at increasing capacity and comfort.
The airport has two main terminals catering to domestic, regional and international flights with a variety of amenities including lounges, shops and diverse dining options. The shopping, especially, can delight those looking for Moroccan crafts or international luxury brands in the duty-free zone. Food options range from quick snacks to more leisurely Moroccan and international cuisines.
Despite its advantages, travelers should be prepared for occasional delays, busy immigration lines and somewhat confusing signage. The older terminal areas show signs of wear and although new projects are underway, current facilities can feel crowded, especially during peak times. Language barriers are occasionally noticeable but most essential staff speak English well enough to assist.
Ongoing projects, including a major new terminal expected by 2029, signal significant improvements ahead – aiming to streamline passenger flow and provide a more comfortable overall experience in time for upcoming global events hosted by Morocco.
Located on the first floor of Terminal 1, this lounge offers a serene environment with comfortable seating, complimentary Wi-Fi, hot and cold buffet options, and private shower facilities. Entry ranges from €25 – 40 (£20.99 – 33.59), with access for premium passengers and lounge memberships.
Available in Terminal 1 for Royal Air Maroc passengers, this lounge features refreshments, seating areas, Wi-Fi, and a quiet workspace. Access is included for business and first-class travellers and elite frequent flyers.
Situated in Terminal 1 international departures, offering a relaxed atmosphere with complimentary snacks, beverages, Wi‑Fi, and business facilities. Walk‑in access may be purchased for a fee around €30 (£25.19).
Most visitors stay in Casablanca’s city center, which offers a wide range of accommodations from budget-friendly hotels to luxury options. The airport itself is surrounded mostly by limited accommodation, so staying downtown is more convenient for exploring the city and beyond.
To Casablanca City Center:
The airport is connected to Casablanca by a train that takes about 45 minutes and requires a transfer, with tickets costing around MAD 50 (£3.81). Shuttle buses operated by private companies like CTM and ALSA run regularly (every 30-60 minutes) to the city centre and major train stations, costing between MAD 30 – 50 (£2.29 – 3.81). Taxis and private transfers are available for roughly MAD 260 – 310 (£19.83 – 23.65), taking around 30 minutes depending on traffic.
To Rabat:
Reaching Rabat from the airport involves a combination of train and taxi; passengers can take a shuttle or taxi to Casablanca’s main train station and then a train to Rabat, which takes roughly 1-1.5 hours. Alternatively, private transfers can be arranged directly at the airport for more comfort but at a higher cost.
To Marrakech:
Travellers to Marrakech usually take a taxi or shuttle to Casablanca’s train station and transfer to a train southbound, a journey taking about 3 hours. Direct private transfers or hire cars offer flexibility but are more expensive and subject to traffic conditions.
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