Morocco is among the most famous tourist destinations in the entire world. Getting a local SIM will enable you to get information through calling, using mobile data to map routes or even for guide purposes so as to save on the expensive roaming charges from your home network. The following guide will take you through all that you need to know about buying a SIM card at Morocco airports.

SIM card at Morocco airports

I. Which airport in Morocco offers SIM card for tourists?

1. Mohammed V International Airport (CMN) – Casablanca

Mohammed-V-International-Airport

Mohammed V International Airport, also known as Casablanca Airport, is the largest and busiest airport in Morocco. CMN serves as the primary hub for the country’s national carrier Royal Air Maroc and also sees traffic from other major airlines like Air Arabia Maroc, Air Morocco, and Turkish Airlines.

As the primary international gateway into Morocco, CMN Airport makes it extremely convenient for travelers to obtain a local SIM card upon arrival for connectivity during their stay. As the largest airport, CMN has multiple stores and kiosks in the arrival and departure areas that sell local prepaid SIMs from various carriers like Maroc Telecom and INWI. Prices range from 50-150 MAD ($5-$15).

2. Marrakech Menara Airport (RAK)

RAK Airport

Marrakech Menara Airport, known as RAK Airport, is the second busiest airport in Morocco serving the popular tourist destination of Marrakech. RAK Airport makes obtaining a Moroccan SIM card straightforward for visitors upon arrival. RAK has a couple of shops and stands after passing customs and collecting luggage that offers tourist SIMs, starting around 60 MAD ($6). Popular options are from Maroc Telecom and Orange Morocco.

3. Tangier Ibn Battouta Airport (TNG)

TNG-airport

Tangier Ibn Battouta Airport serves as the international airport of Tangier and the northwestern corner of Morocco. Located around 12 km southwest of Tangier city, TNG Airport connects the region to domestic Moroccan destinations as well as international routes to European countries. TNG serves northern Morocco and the ferries to Spain. There are a handful of stores and kiosks in the arrivals area offering SIM card at Morocco airports from 50 MAD ($5) and up. 

II. Where to buy SIM card at Morocco airports?

inwi kiosk at airport

Let’s break down the typical locations to purchase SIM card at Morocco airports:

  • In the Arrivals Area – After clearing customs and immigration and collecting your checked bags, there are often small shops or temporary kiosks setup specifically to sell SIM cards to arriving tourists. Prices won’t vary much from shop to shop here.
  • In the Main Terminal Departures Area – There are also usually larger phone shops and kiosks located past security in the check-in and departures section of airports. Selection and prices for SIM cards will be similar to the arrivals area.
  • Airport Vending Machines – Some Morocco airports have vending machines that dispense SIM cards after entering payment. This allows self-service option if shops are closed or you’re in a hurry.
  • Duty Free Shops – Many duty free shops will also carry SIM cards catering to travelers. Prices should be consistent with other general airport shops.

III. What to prepare to buy a SIM card at Morocco airports?

There are some tips on being prepared when purchasing your SIM card at Morocco airports:

  • Carry Passport: Your passport is typically required for buying and registering any SIM card, as it will need to be matched to your identity.
  • Know Your Unlocked Phone IMEI: Bring your unlocked phone and have the 15-digit IMEI number ready to provide. This uniquely identifies your device on the mobile network.
  • Have Cash Available: While some shops may accept credit cards, having local currency in Moroccan Dirham (MAD) will ensure you can easily purchase a SIM. Know that cash is king.
  • Ask About Data Packs/Plans: Inquire what data packages or prepaid plans are available for tourists to get the best value mobile internet during your stay. Most will have options for your needs.

By having these key items and information handy, the process of buying a SIM card at Morocco airports will be quick and seamless. 

IV. Morocco eSIM – an Alternative to Airport SIM Card

An alternative to purchasing a physical SIM card at Morocco airports is using an eSIM for your unlocked phone. eSIMs are digital SIM profiles that can be setup before arrival and offer more flexibility:

  1. Convenience: eSIM allows instant connection vs finding a shop to swap SIMs in your device. Saves time on arrival.
  2. Multi Country Use: An eSIM keeps working across borders so perfect for visitors going to more than one country. Get coverage everywhere.
  3. Better Rates: Some eSIM providers offer cheaper high-speed data packages than airport SIMs aimed at short stays.
  4. Flexible Plans: Ability to change data amounts or number of days as you go. Add more anytime.

You will get all these benefits when using eSIM from moroccoesim.com by GIGAGO. We offers various plans for 3-30 days. Explore more at: moroccoesim.com/buy-esim/

Best Morocco eSIM data plans

Overall for visitors looking to conveniently stay connected across Morocco, an eSIM installed ahead of your trip can be an easier and more affordable roaming option over physical SIM card at Morocco airports.

V. FAQs

Here are some frequently asked questions about purchasing SIM card at Morocco airports:

Are SIM cards sold at land border crossings like train stations?

Some border crossings will have basic SIM cards available, but selection is usually smaller and focused on local carriers only. Airport shops tend to cater more specifically to foreign tourists.

Can I use a SIM card across multiple trips?

Typically tourist SIM cards must be used for the duration of a single visit. However, some carriers offer reloadable options that allow reuse on subsequent trips within a 12-month period.

Do I need to register my passport to buy a SIM card?

Yes, you need to provide your passport details during the SIM registration process for identity verification as mandated by regulations for foreign travelers.

Can I use a SIM card across multiple devices?

Usually Morocco SIM cards can only be actively used in one device at a time. You’ll have to swap and re-register the SIM each time you change gadgets. So buy one per phone.

VI. Conclusion

Purchasing a local prepaid SIM card at Morocco airports is a handy way to enable affordable roaming during your visit. The major gateways like Marrakech, Casablanca and Tangier have multiple shops and kiosks catering to visitor’s connectivity needs. Alternatively, using an eSIM offers greater convenience and flexibility if visiting more than one country. Either option beats costly regular international roaming when unlocking mobile access across this amazing kingdom!