Marrakesh Menara Airport, known by its code RAK, serves as a welcoming entry point for travellers arriving in Morocco’s cultural hub. The airport, located just 5 kilometres southwest of the city centre, offers a smooth and efficient experience for passengers, blending modern design with local architectural touches. Its compact layout and range of amenities make it a practical choice for those beginning or ending their Moroccan journey.
For passengers, the experience at Marrakesh Menara is generally straightforward. Arrivals are greeted by a well-organised immigration process, with several booths typically open to handle passport control. Travellers have reported clearing immigration and baggage claim in as little as 30 to 45 minutes during quieter periods, though peak times can see longer queues. Departures require a bit more planning, as passengers are advised to arrive three hours early due to thorough security checks and the need for printed boarding passes, a requirement for all airlines at RAK. Some have noted the process can feel slow, particularly at check-in and security, where local agents may take time to review documents. However, staff are often described as friendly, helping to ease the process.
Access to the airport is convenient, with multiple transport options connecting to the city centre.
Taxis are readily available outside the terminal, with fares averaging £5 during the day and slightly higher at night. A dedicated taxi counter operates 24/7, allowing passengers to pay fixed rates and avoid haggling. For a more seamless experience, pre-booked private transfers through hotels or services like Kech Cab offer transparent pricing and GPS tracking. A shuttle bus runs every 20 minutes to downtown Marrakesh, providing an affordable alternative, while car rental desks from companies like Hertz, Avis, and Sixt are located in Terminal 1 for those wishing to explore further afield. The 15 to 20-minute drive to the city centre via the R212 motorway is straightforward, with good road connections.
The airport’s layout is simple and easy to navigate, housed within two interconnected terminals, Terminal 1 and Terminal 3. Terminal 1 primarily handles check-in, while Terminal 3 contains the departures lounge and arrivals area. The design is modern and airy, with clear signage guiding passengers through the process. However, during busy periods, such as spring or festive seasons, the compact size can lead to crowded seating areas and longer wait times at security and immigration. Fast Track services, available for pre-booking, allow passengers to bypass queues, offering a quicker route through security and passport control for those seeking efficiency.
Dining and retail options at Marrakesh Menara are modest but sufficient. Terminal 3 hosts a duty-free shop offering cosmetics, fragrances, and local products like mint tea and Argan oil, though prices are often higher than in Europe. Food outlets, including Café Mazar and Paul, provide a selection of snacks and meals, but choices are limited, and some travellers recommend eating in the city for better value. Free Wi-Fi, available throughout both terminals under the “Menara Airport Free Wi-Fi” network, keeps passengers connected, though speeds can vary during peak times. Free SIM cards from providers like Inwi and Maroc Telecom are often distributed in the arrivals hall, a handy perk for staying online.
Facilities cater well to basic needs. ATMs and a currency exchange counter provide easy access to Moroccan Dirhams, though the currency cannot be taken out of the country. Passengers with reduced mobility can access ramps, lifts, and assistance from ground staff, provided they notify their airline in advance. The Pearl Lounge, open to all passengers, and the Oasis Lounge, reserved for business-class travellers, offer comfortable spaces with refreshments and Wi-Fi. However, there are no designated smoking areas within the terminals, and luggage storage is currently unavailable.
On-time performance at Marrakesh Menara is generally reliable, with flight tracking services like Flightradar24 providing real-time updates on departures and arrivals. Delays, when they occur, are often due to high passenger volumes during peak seasons, such as spring or school holidays, or external factors like air traffic control issues or weather conditions. Technical issues or poor planning, as seen during busy periods like April 2024, can also contribute to congestion. Airlines may offer compensation for delays exceeding three hours if caused by internal factors, though weather-related disruptions are typically exempt.
For those making connections, Marrakesh Menara serves as a hub for 39 airlines, including Ryanair, easyJet, and Royal Air Maroc, with routes to over 100 destinations, including Europe, the Middle East, and North America. The airport’s compact size makes transfers relatively easy, though passengers should allow ample time for security and immigration, especially without Fast Track services. The lack of online check-in for some airlines, requiring a stamped paper boarding pass, can slow the process, so travellers are advised to check airline requirements carefully.
