Marrakech Menara Airport is the main international airport serving the city of Marrakech and the surrounding region in Morocco. As a popular tourist destination, many travelers pass through Menara Airport each year. Having access to mobile data during your trip can be very useful for maps, translations, ride-hailing apps, and staying connected. In this guide, we’ll cover everything you need to know about buying a local SIM card at Marrakech Menara Airport.
Table of Contents
I. Where to Buy a SIM Card at Marrakech Menara Airport
When you arrive, you’ll find several options for purchasing a Morocco SIM card at Marrakech Menara Airport with a data plan for your unlocked phone. Here are the main locations to shop for SIMs at the airport:
- Vending Machines – There are SIM card vending machines located in the arrivals area just after passing through customs. These allow you to quickly purchase a SIM from major providers like Orange Morocco or INWI using a credit card or cash. Prices and plan options may be more limited than at staffed stores.
- Mobile Operator Shops or Kiosks – In the arrivals hall and ground transportation area you’ll find dedicated shops or kiosks for some of the main Moroccan mobile networks. These include Orange Morocco, Maroc Telecom, and INWI. Here you can discuss plan options and get set up with the best SIM and data package for your needs.
- Convenience Shops – Some convenience shops or newsstands in the arrivals terminal also sell prepaid SIM cards from various Moroccan carriers. Selection may be more limited but it’s another quick option if the dedicated mobile shops have long lines.
No matter which shop you purchase from, be sure to have your passport ready as you will need to provide it to get a Moroccan SIM card as a foreign visitor.
II. Marrakech Menara Airport SIM Card Options and Costs
The main mobile operators in Morocco are Orange Morocco, INWI, and Maroc Telecom. Here’s an overview of SIM card at Marrakech Menara Airport options for travelers, along with average costs:
| Operator | Plan Details | Price (MAD) | Price (USD) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Maroc Telecom | 5GB data, 60 mins calls, valid 10 days | 85 | $8 |
| Orange Morocco | 2GB data, 30 mins calls, valid 7 days | 70 | $6.50 |
| Inwi | 3GB data, 90 mins calls, valid 14 days | 79 | $7.50 |
- Airport kiosks for Maroc Telecom, Orange Morocco and Inwi provide SIMs
- Plans include data and call allowances valid for 7-14 days
- Sufficient for short stays focusing around Marrakech
- Prices range from $6.50-8 for pre-loaded plans
- Can request eSIM set up on compatible devices
Both the Orange Morocco and INWI desks at the airport should have staff that speak English if you need help selecting the best plan. Make sure to ask about activation fees or taxes that may not be included so you know the full cost.
For longer trips, most travelers find an Orange Morocco or INWI SIM offer the best deals for data packages. But for short visits, Maroc Telecom daily rates can also be convenient.
III. What You Need to Prepare for Getting a SIM Card at Marrakech Menara Airport
To make the process smooth when you go to buy your SIM card at Marrakech Menara Airport, here are a few tips on what to have ready:
- Unlocked Phone – Your phone will need to be unlocked to use a foreign SIM when traveling internationally. Contact your provider in advance to request an unlock code.
- Passport – Your passport is required to present as a visitor when purchasing and registering a Moroccan SIM card. Make sure to have it out and ready to show staff.
- Cash/Credit Card – Have local currency, US dollars, Euros, or a credit card available for paying for your SIM card and data plan at the airport. Know that some shops may charge additional fees for credit card use.
- Activation – Keep in mind it can take up to 24 hours after installation for them to fully activate your Moroccan SIM card data services. Be patient if you don’t have connectivity immediately.
As long as your phone is unlocked and you come prepared with cash/plastic and your passport, getting set up with mobile data at Marrakech Menara Airport is a quick and convenient process upon arrival.
IV. eSIM as an Alternative to SIM Card at Marrakech Menara Airport
If your phone supports eSIM technology, this can be a great alternative option for hassle-free mobile data when getting a SIM card at Marrakech Menara Airport. An eSIM allows you to digitally install a data plan rather than using a plastic physical SIM card.
Some benefits of using an eSIM for your trip include:
- No SIM card required – eSIMs load directly onto your phone making setup easier
- Travel friendly plans – Some carriers offer better international eSIM data packages
- Multi-SIM capability – Have both a home eSIM plan and local data
- Flexibility – Change plans or carriers easily through an app
Top eSIM providers to consider for travel include Morocco eSIM by GIGAGO. Just make sure to download the app and get set up with an international data eSIM before you take off or land in Morocco.
If you need lots of data during your trip (5GB+), then a local Marrakech SIM could still be lower cost than most global eSIM plans. But for more casual usage, an eSIM is a convenient alternative.
V. FAQs
Do I need to register my passport to get a SIM card at Marrakech Menara airport?
Yes, you will need to provide a copy of your passport as a foreign visitor when buying any Morroccan SIM card. This is required by local telecom regulations for registering new mobile numbers. Be ready to show your passport at the shop.
Can I use a Marrakech SIM across Morocco?
Yes, a prepaid SIM purchased at Marrakech airport will work throughout most major cities across Morocco without roaming charges on the same network. Just be aware that coverage may be limited in some rural mountainous or desert areas away from population centers.
Is it easy to find shops selling SIMs at the airport?
Yes, Orange Morocco, INWI and Maroc Telecom all have dedicated sales desks or stores located right as you exit customs and enter the arrivals terminal at Marrakech Menara Airport. There are also some convenience shop options for buying SIM cards at the terminals as well.
What payment methods can I use?
The SIM stalls accept both cash payment in Moroccan Dirham (MAD) as well as international credit/debit cards. It’s best to have both options if possible in case one method doesn’t work.
VI. Final Words
Getting set up with an affordable prepaid SIM card at Marrakech Menara Airport. Head to one of the dedicated operator shops, kiosks or stores right in the arrivals hall area after you grab your luggage. Orange Morocco and INWI typically offer the best bundles and prices for most travelers. Just have your unlocked phone, passport, and payment ready and you’ll be all set with connectivity for your Morocco trip in no time. Enjoy your time in Marrakech!
