Traveller's Guide to Rabat Salé Airport
Rabat Salé airport (IATA code: RBA) is Morocco's second busiest international airport after Casablanca's Mohammed V. Located approximately 10 km north of Rabat city centre, in the city of Salé, it primarily serves destinations in Europe (Paris, Brussels, Madrid, Amsterdam, etc.) and some domestic routes. This practical guide helps you navigate your arrival or departure.
About the Airport
Rabat Salé airport is modest in size compared to Mohammed V, which makes it easier and less stressful to use. It has one main terminal handling both arrivals and departures. Airlines including Air Arabia Maroc, easyJet, Transavia and Royal Air Maroc operate here regularly.
Available services include restaurants and cafes, souvenir shops, currency exchange offices, ATMs, car hire desks and free Wi-Fi throughout the terminal.
Transport from the Airport to Rabat
Taxis
Grand taxis and petit taxis are available outside the terminal. To central Rabat, expect to pay around 70–100 DH by petit taxi (metered) or 80–120 DH by grand taxi. The journey takes 15 to 25 minutes depending on traffic. Some negotiation may be required for grand taxis.
Bus
Urban bus lines connect the airport to several districts of Rabat. It is the cheapest option but the slowest and least practical with luggage.
Private Transfer
A private transfer service from Rabat airport is the most comfortable solution. Your driver meets you at the arrivals exit and takes you directly to your hotel or address in Rabat. The price is fixed in advance and includes everything. Welcomorocco offers this service with professional drivers available 24/7.
Practical Tips for Rabat Airport
- Arrive 2 hours before your flight (the airport is small but queues can form)
- Moroccan dirhams cannot be converted abroad — spend any remaining dirhams before you leave
- Duty-free shops are limited — if you want Moroccan specialities, buy them in the city
- Check flight information in real time — delays are common on some routes
Transfers to and from Other Cities
Rabat Salé airport is also a good starting point for reaching other Moroccan cities by private car:
- Rabat → Casablanca: 90 km, approximately 1 hour by car
- Rabat → Marrakech: 330 km, approximately 3.5 hours by car
- Rabat → Fez: 200 km, approximately 2.25 hours by car
- Rabat → Tangier: 340 km, approximately 3.5 hours by car
The City of Rabat
Take advantage of your time in Rabat to discover this often underrated capital. The Kasbah of the Udayas, the Hassan Tower, the Mohammed V Mausoleum and the beautiful medina make Rabat an essential cultural stop. The city has also been a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 2012.
Rabat Salé airport is a convenient gateway for exploring northern Morocco. With a well-organised private transfer, you begin your journey in the best possible conditions.
Book Your Private Transfer in Morocco
Welcomorocco offers private transfers across Morocco with professional drivers, fixed prices and 24/7 availability. Book your transfer now and travel with complete peace of mind.