If you’re staying connected on your trip, getting a local SIM card when you arrive at Mohammed V International Airport in Casablanca is really convenient. In this guide you’ll find all the information you should know about buying a SIM card at Mohammed V International Airport.
Table of Contents
I. Where to Buy a SIM Card at Mohammed V International Airport
There are several options for purchasing SIM card at Mohammed V International Airport:
1. Vending Machines
- At Mohammed V International Airport, you can purchase a prepaid SIM card from the vending machines of national operators Maroc Telecom and Inwi.
- The machines accept cash and are located in the area after customs in the arrivals zone.
- Cards from the vending machines often have some credit already loaded onto them, allowing the holder to start making calls or using mobile data right away.
2. Operator Shops and Kiosks
- In addition, there are Maroc Telecom and Inwi shops and kiosks spread throughout the terminals for buying SIM cards.
- These stores have sales personnel ready to help you install your new SIM card at Mohammed V International airport. If your questions remain unanswered, they will assist you in finding the answers.
- Moreover, shops sell more variety of SIM card options, packages and recharge vouchers than the vending machines offer.
3. Third Party Retailers
- Besides the large main national operator shops, there are also many independent retailers at the airport, which also sell SIM cards.
- Their prices and offerings may differ, so shop around and compare prices.
- The staff don’t know as much about the details of the plan as official stores do.
Also make sure you have your passport and unlocked phone ready to go with you when you buy your Morocco SIM.
II. Mohammed V International Airport SIM Card Options and Costs
There are two main national operators to choose prepaid SIM card at Mohammed V International Airport – Maroc Telecom and Inwi. Here’s an overview of what they currently offer:
| Operator | Plan | Price (MAD) | Price (USD) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Orange Morocco | Holiday Pack: 5GB data, 60 mins calls, valid 14 days | 79 | $7.40 |
| Inwi | Visitor Pack: 2GB data, 60 mins calls, valid 7 days | 70 | $6.60 |
| Maroc Telecom | Tourist Pack: 3GB data, 90 mins calls, valid 10 days | 85 | $8 |
Both providers have excellent nationwide networks with 4G LTE connections at Mohammed V airport. Maroc Telecom claims over 99% population coverage while Inwi trails slightly behind.
The prepaid SIM prices are generally the same, so you’ll want to compare the current prepaid pack rates and data options in choosing Maroc Telecom or Inwi when you arrive.
III. What You Need to Prepare for Getting a SIM Card at Mohammed V International Airport
Buying and setting up a new SIM card at Mohammed V International Airport is very convenient, but there’s a few things to prepare in advance:
- Phone Compatibility: Your phone needs to be unlocked by your home carrier in order to use a foreign SIM card abroad. Double check your device is unlocked beforehand or it may not work. iPhones in particular must have this completed or mobile data will be blocked.
- Cash on Hand: While some merchants at the airport may accept credit cards, it’s best to have local currency ready to pay for your SIM card and initial top up credit. There will definitely be cash only kiosks or machines to buy from.
- Passport or Travel ID: When purchasing your Moroccan SIM you’ll need to show your original passport or qualifying travel ID for mandatory registration and activation. Make sure it’s handy when you reach the arrivals hall.
With unlocked phone, cash, and passport – you’ll be all set for seamless SIM card pickup when your flight lands in Casablanca!
IV. eSIM as an Alternative to SIM Card at Mohammed V International Airport
While physical SIM cards are still predominant globally, eSIM technology continues to grow in availability. An eSIM performs the same function as a standard SIM card, but the profile is downloaded digitally – no plastic card required.
For visitors arriving at Mohammed V International Airport, eSIM can offer a few advantages as an alternative to physical SIMs:
Convenience
- eSIM allows instant activation on landing with mobile data ready to use within minutes. No need to locate and visit a shop.
- Great for short layovers if you only need data connectivity briefly during your time in Casablanca.
- eSIM compatible phones can run two SIMs simultaneously. You could add a Morocco eSIM plan and still keep your regular home SIM active.
Drawbacks
- eSIM support is still limited for foreign providers compared to regular SIMs. Maroc Telecom does offer tourist eSIM plans, but rates can be more expensive.
- iOS devices have wider global eSIM availability versus Android. Compatible phones are still the minority but growing.
Morocco eSIM by GIGAGO is a great choice in this case with an affordable price, from only $15.00 – $60.50. You can experience high-speed 1-5 GB data on your travel with ease.
So while eSIM in Morocco is an option for Mohammed V airport arrivals, standard physical SIM cards still reign supreme for reliability, connectivity and value. But as more carriers and devices adopt eSIM, it may expand as a convenient future alternative.
V. FAQs About SIM Card at Mohammed V International Airport
1. Can I buy SIM at night or when shops are closed?
Yes – the Maroc Telecom and Inwi vending machines operate 24/7 at Mohammed V airport. Just use cash payment and your passport to buy a SIM after hours.
2. How long does activation and setup take?
Physical SIM activation is automated and nearly instant as long as you have an unlocked phone. Just follow the prompts when you insert the SIM and reboot. An eSIM profile should provision in under 5 minutes.
3. Do the SIM cards have data packages enabled?
The starter SIM packs from Maroc Telecom and Inwi both come with a small amount of domestic call minutes, texts, and mobile data – usually 100 MB up to 1 GB to start. This allows you to connect upon landing before having to recharge with more credit.
4. Can I get a SIM card before clearing immigration and customs?
No – you must pass through immigration clearance in the arrivals hall before having the chance to purchase local SIM card at Mohammed V Airport. Only exiting into the main public arrivals area will the stores and vending machines be accessible.
5. Are there stores open to buy SIM card outside normal shop hours?
Yes, there are always Maroc Telecom and Inwi vending machines located in the arrivals hall that are accessible 24 hours a day. If you arrive very late or early when standard shops are closed, the machines are still available to quickly grab a prepaid SIM card.
VI. Final Words
Getting connected with a local SIM card is crucial for navigating your trip upon arrival at a foreign airport. At Mohammed V International Airport in Casablanca, travelers can conveniently purchase prepaid Morocco SIM plans from Maroc Telecom and Inwi right onsite. Whether a long stay or brief layover in transit, picking up a Morocco SIM card at Mohammed V International airport will have you connected instantly to make travel easier when landing in Casablanca.
