Casablanca Airport (CMN) – Complete Travel Guide 2026

Mohammed V International Airport quick facts

Mohammed V International Airport Terminal Map and Layout

Mohammed V International Airport features a practical linear layout with two primary passenger terminals positioned adjacent to each other. The design allows for relatively straightforward navigation, although the airport is currently undergoing significant expansion to accommodate Morocco's growing role as a continental hub, especially in preparation for the 2030 FIFA World Cup. The terminals are situated side-by-side and are connected landside (before security), meaning transferring passengers must exit one building and walk to the next or take a short ground transportation option. The general walking distance between the main entrances of Terminal 1 and Terminal 2 is approximately 200-300 meters, a manageable walk for most travelers, though it is uncovered.

A major development underway is the construction of a brand-new terminal, designed by RSHP, ALA Concept, and Egis, which began preparatory work in July 2025. This H-shaped building will introduce a capacity for 20 million additional passengers annually, integrated directly with Morocco's high-speed rail network. It is scheduled to be operational by 2029. For now, all operations remain within the existing two terminals.

Walking is the primary way to move between the two current terminals. The distance is short enough that a courtesy shuttle is not typically emphasized for inter-terminal transit; however, for passengers with heavy luggage or mobility issues, taking a petit taxi for the very short hop is an informal option. Inside the terminals, moving walkways are available in the newer Terminal 2 to assist with longer concourse walks, particularly en route to the satellite boarding gates. For connecting flights, the best route is entirely dependent on your airlines. If connecting between a Royal Air Maroc domestic flight and a Royal Air Maroc international flight, you will very likely change gates within the same terminal area. If switching between airlines operating from different terminals, you will need to clear any necessary visa checks and walk outside to the adjacent building.

Navigating Mohammed V International Airport Terminals

Terminal 1

This is the older of the two facilities and handles a mix of domestic and some international flights. Airlines that typically check in here include Royal Air Maroc for domestic routes (such as Marrakech, Agadir, and Laayoune) and select regional international carriers. The terminal is characterized by its more compact, functional design. Key features at Terminal 1 include the arrivals area on the ground floor, where you will find car rental counters, currency exchange booths, and direct access to the train station via an underground passage. Dining and shopping are more limited here than in Terminal 2, but you will still find a few cafes serving mint tea and pastries, small newsagents, and essential travel item shops. This terminal provides a taste of classic Moroccan airport travel, busy and bustling, particularly around the cluster of domestic departure times.

Terminal 2

Terminal 2 is the newer, main international gateway for Mohammed V International Airport and serves as the primary hub for Royal Air Maroc's extensive global network, as well as Air Arabia Maroc and most major international airlines like Air France, Emirates, Lufthansa, and Qatar Airways. This terminal has a more modern, spacious feel with higher ceilings and a broader selection of amenities. The departures level is on the first floor, where you will undergo security screening and passport control. Once airside, you will discover a significantly larger range of shops and restaurants compared to Terminal 1. Highlights include a large duty-free area, international news and book stores, luxury boutiques offering Moroccan crafts and leather goods, and diverse food options from quick-service pizza and sandwiches to sit-down cafes. The prestigious Royal Air Maroc business lounges, known for their design and comfort, are located here, offering full meal buffets, shower facilities, and relaxation areas before long-haul flights.

Transportation to and from Mohammed V International Airport

Getting to the center of Casablanca or connecting to other major Moroccan cities is straightforward, with the train being the most efficient and popular public method. The airport is a major transportation hub linking air, rail, and road networks.

Getting to and from Mohammed V International Airport by Car

Driving to the airport from central Casablanca is direct via the A7 autoroute. Traffic can be heavily congested during weekday morning and evening rush hours, so allow at least 45 to 60 minutes for a journey that takes 30 minutes in clear conditions. The airport provides several official parking options directly in front of the terminals. A multi-story short-term parking garage offers covered parking a few steps from the check-in halls. It is the most convenient option for picking up or dropping off passengers and for trips under 3 hours. For longer stays, open-air long-term lots are available a bit further from the terminal curbs but still within easy walking distance of both buildings. Parking rates are affordable, with short-term parking costing approximately $1-2 per hour, while long-term economy lots have daily maximums around $8-10 USD. Private, off-site parking facilities with valet, covered parking, and car wash services are less common near this airport than in European or North American hubs, so on-site lots are your best choice. Park-and-fly packages are offered by nearby airport hotels, such as the Atlas Sky Airport, which can be more economical for trips lasting several days. There is no dedicated, official cell phone waiting lot; drivers waiting for arriving passengers typically park in the short-term lot briefly or circle the access roads until the traveler is curbside. Curbside drop-off and pick-up areas immediately outside the terminals are strictly for active loading and unloading, with a time limit of about 5 minutes enforced by traffic police to prevent congestion and security concerns.

Getting to and from Mohammed V International Airport by Rideshare or Taxi

Rideshare services like Uber and Lyft do not operate in Morocco in the same app-based, private-vehicle capacity as in the US. The equivalent local service is Careem, which operates reliably in Casablanca and services the airport. The primary taxi service is the famous Moroccan Grand Taxi. These are large, often older Mercedes-Benz sedans that operate on a shared or private hire basis. They are lined up directly outside the arrivals halls of both terminals. For a private trip to the city center, you should negotiate and confirm the fare before entering the taxi. The price to downtown Casablanca is fixed in practice at around 300 Moroccan Dirhams, which is approximately $30 USD. Careem offers a modern alternative where you can order a car via the app for a set, upfront price, often in a newer vehicle, with fares to the city center similarly priced at around 250-350 MAD ($25-$35 USD). The designated pickup area for Careem is in the main terminal forecourt, and you can wait inside the arrivals hall until your driver is close.

Getting to and from Mohammed V International Airport by Public Transportation

The most efficient connection is the dedicated train line run by the ONCF (Office National des Chemins de Fer). The train station, named Aeroport Mohammed V, is located directly underneath Terminal 1. Passengers arriving at Terminal 2 can reach the station via a clearly marked, covered underground walkway that takes about 5 to 7 minutes. Trains connect the airport to the city's primary hub, Casa-Voyageurs station, from which you can connect to every major city in Morocco including Rabat, Marrakech, Fes, and Tangier. Some trains continue through to Casa-Port station in the city center, but often require a quick change at Casa-Voyageurs. This train is the smartest choice to avoid Casablanca's unpredictable road traffic.

Key Amenities at Mohammed V International Airport

ATMs

ATMs are plentiful and available in the arrivals and departures halls of both Terminal 1 and Terminal 2. Major Moroccan banks, including Attijariwafa Bank, BMCE Bank, and Banque Populaire, operate ATMs that accept international Visa, Mastercard, and Maestro cards, dispensing Moroccan Dirhams.

Lost and Found

Lost property services are managed by the airport authority, ONDA, in coordination with the Airport Police. If you lose an item inside the terminal, check with the information desk first. For items lost on an aircraft or at a specific airline's gate, you must contact your airline's baggage service office directly, which is typically in the baggage claim hall.

Luggage services (carts, storage, wrapping)

Luggage carts are available for a small fee in both terminals. Luggage wrapping services are a prominent and highly recommended amenity, located clearly before the check-in counters. A secure, multi-layered plastic wrap costs around $5-$7 USD per bag and is well worth it for peace of mind. A secure left-luggage storage facility is also available for passengers with long layovers who want to visit the city unburdened.

Pets

Mohammed V International Airport handles a number of traveling animals, but there are no designated indoor pet relief areas. The immediate landscape outside the terminal is grassed in areas where a leashed pet could relieve itself before a flight, but you would need to exit the terminal entirely and go through security upon re-entry. It is critical to check with your specific airline for their pet travel and carrier regulations, as these vary widely between Royal Air Maroc, Air France, etc.

Showers

Pay-per-use shower facilities are not available as a standalone service for the general public. Shower suites are exclusively located within the premium lounges, primarily the Royal Air Maroc Zenith and business lounges in Terminal 2. Access is granted with a business or first-class ticket, or by purchasing a lounge pass.

Currency Exchange

Currency exchange desks operated by major Moroccan banks are present in the arrivals halls of both terminals, generally open to meet all arriving international flights, roughly from 6:00 AM to 11:00 PM. Exchange desks offer competitive rates for hard currencies, and it is typically better to exchange money here than in the city center.

Smoking Area

The terminal interiors are strictly non-smoking. Designated smoking areas are located outside the terminal buildings, before the security checkpoints. There are no smoking lounges available airside once you have passed through security.

Terminal building features

Terminal 2 is a modern, spacious facility with high arched ceilings and a distinctly Moroccan architectural touch with intricate zellige tilework and carved wood accents in the premium areas. The terminal is equipped with prayer rooms, clean public restrooms, and a modern operational center that has streamlined passenger and baggage flow, contributing to a smoother travel experience.

WiFi

Complimentary WiFi is available throughout Mohammed V International Airport. To connect, select the "onda" network, and you will be prompted to enter a simple registration or accept terms of use. The signal is strongest and most reliable in the departure lounges of Terminal 2. Charging stations with universal power outlets and USB ports are placed conveniently throughout the seating areas near gates.

Other Amenities

A medical center is available for emergencies and general first aid. Prayer rooms (masjids) are clean, well-signed, and available in both the public and airside areas, a crucial amenity reflecting the country's culture. A general information desk is located in the central area of the Terminal 2 arrivals hall.

Airport Lounges at Mohammed V International Airport

The lounge scene at Mohammed V International Airport is dominated by the flag carrier, Royal Air Maroc, which has recently invested heavily in upgrading the passenger experience. A new hypermodern business lounge has been unveiled, reflecting the airline's ambitious growth strategy to position Casablanca as a premier connecting hub between Africa, Europe, and the Americas. While there are no standalone credit-card-affiliated lounges from US issuers like American Express Centurion, there are excellent Priority Pass and premium ticket-accessible options.

Airline Lounges at Mohammed V International Airport

Royal Air Maroc Zenith Lounge (Terminal 2)

The flagship lounge for Royal Air Maroc, open to business class passengers and high-tier frequent flyer club members. This newly renovated space represents the pinnacle of the RAM ground experience. The standout feature is the design itself, which blends contemporary luxury with Moroccan artistic motifs. Travelers will find a full hot and cold buffet with traditional Moroccan tagines, couscous, and international dishes, a tended bar, spacious seating with sweeping tarmac views, quiet zones, high-speed WiFi, and elegant shower suites. It is a calm, refined oasis that easily competes with major European lounges.

Royal Air Maroc Lounge (Terminal 1)

A smaller, functional lounge serving Royal Air Maroc's domestic and short-haul passengers. It provides a comfortable, quieter space to wait with basic snacks, beverages, newspapers, and free WiFi. While lacking the grandeur of the Zenith Lounge, it's a welcome retreat from the busier terminal concourse.

Credit Card-Affiliated Lounges

Pearl Lounge

This is the main third-party contract lounge that serves as the gateway for Priority Pass, LoungeKey, and select credit card programs. It is located in the international departures area of Terminal 2. Known for its open, airy design, the standout features include a live cooking station where you can get fresh pancakes (msemen) and a reasonable hot buffet, a full bar, and a good number of power outlets arranged at individual work stations. The space can become crowded during the morning and afternoon long-haul departure banks, particularly to Europe and the Middle East.

Priority Pass Lounges at Mohammed V International Airport

Priority Pass and LoungeKey members can access the Pearl Lounge in Terminal 2. It is the primary experience available, and it is a genuine, full-service lounge rather than a restaurant credit alternative. Access is straightforward with a valid membership card. There are no recent restrictions blocking cardholders from major issuers like AmEx or Capital One, but always verify your specific issuer's benefits before traveling. The lounge offers a solid pre-flight experience with good food and drinks.

Other Airports in the Region

Rabat-Salé Airport (RBA)

Distance to Casablanca city center: Approximately 120 km (75 miles), about a 1.5-hour drive via the autoroute. Best for: Travelers whose final destination is Morocco's capital city, Rabat, or the northeastern suburbs of Casablanca. Its unique advantage is its smaller size, meaning far fewer crowds, ultra-quick check-in and security, and a more relaxed experience. It is highly recommended for trips focusing on Rabat and the northern Atlantic coast.

Marrakech Menara Airport (RAK)

Distance to Casablanca city center: Approximately 240 km (150 miles), about a 2.5-hour drive on the highway or train. Best for: Tourists whose primary plan is to explore Marrakech and the south, but find a cheaper or more direct flight here. Its advantage is the stunning contemporary open-air design of the terminal, which beautifully blends modern architecture with traditional Islamic garden elements. It is a much more tourist-focused airport and acts as a fantastic gateway to the south.

Mohammed V International Airport Overview

Mohammed V International Airport (CMN), situated at Nouasseur roughly 30 kilometers southeast of the Casablanca city center, is the beating heart of Moroccan aviation. As the busiest airport in the country, it is the primary international entry point and central hub connecting Africa to Europe, North America, and the Middle East. Opened to civilian traffic in 1959 on the site of a former air base, the airport was named after King Mohammed V, a symbol of Moroccan independence. It facilitates around 10 million passengers annually, a number set to rise dramatically with a $1.3 billion expansion of a new terminal and runway, preparing the infrastructure for the 2030 FIFA World Cup. As far as alternative names, you will rarely, but occasionally, hear it called Nouasseur Airport, referencing its geographic location. It is a dual-use civilian and military facility. The airport currently operates across two passenger terminals, with a third under construction.

Mohammed V International Airport Postal Code

Full postal code: 20000
City: Nouasseur / Casablanca
Province/State: Nouaceur Province
Country: Morocco
Complete mailing address: Nouasseur, Casablanca 20000, Morocco

Duty Free and Shopping at Mohammed V International Airport

Duty-free is absolutely available, particularly in Terminal 2's large departures area, as Morocco is a very attractive market for luxury goods and traditional arts. The shopping experience blends high-end international brands with magnificent Moroccan artisanal products. You will find luxury boutiques selling leather goods, argan oil cosmetics, and high-fashion along with massive duty-free operators selling perfume, cosmetics, tobacco, and spirits. The cafés and restaurants range from Moroccan pastry shops where you can get a final glass of mint tea and almond cornes de gazelle to international chains. The Moroccan souvenir boutiques are arguably better than what you will find in the city's tourist traps, offering fair, fixed prices with high-quality, authentic goods. This is the place to buy your argan oil, decorative ceramics, and leather slippers in a pressure-free environment.

Security Wait Times Mohammed V International Airport

Security wait times are highly dependent on the overlapping long-haul flight schedule. The new state-of-the-art Airport Operational Center has significantly improved congestion management through real-time coordination between police, customs, and airlines. On a normal day, standard security screening takes 10-20 minutes. Peak periods—specifically the mid-morning rush for European departures and the late afternoon rush for Gulf and North American flights—can see wait times extend to 30-40 minutes at passport control. The busiest days are Friday, Saturday, and Sunday. The weeks surrounding major religious holidays like Eid al-Adha and Ramadan, as well as summer months (July-August), mark high season with very heavy traffic. Morocco does not have TSA PreCheck or Global Entry. To minimize wait times, check in online and travel with carry-on only whenever possible. Standard fluid restrictions apply (100ml max per item, in a sealed 1L bag). Always have your passport and boarding pass ready for multiple checkpoints.

Mohammed V International Airport Drop Off and Pick Up Information

The departures drop-off zone is located on the upper forecourt of both Terminal 1 and Terminal 2. This area is for active unloading only. Police strictly enforce a maximum stop time of approximately 5 minutes to keep traffic flowing. You cannot leave your vehicle unattended. The arrivals pick-up zone is on the ground level, directly outside the baggage claim halls. It is a chaotic, busy area. A good meeting point is outside the specific car rental office or the large ONCF train station entrance near Terminal 1. There is no dedicated, stationary cell phone lot. Many locals use the small cafes and gas stations on the road approaching the airport to wait. The Kiss and Fly concept is essentially a quick drop right at the departures curb. Commercial vehicles, including Grands Taxis and Careem pickups, have designated lanes directly integrated into the terminal forecourt.

Flight Routes and Airlines at Mohammed V International Airport

The airport is the primary hub for Royal Air Maroc and Air Arabia Maroc. RAM's aggressive expansion continues, with new routes in 2026 including nonstop flights to Los Angeles, Pointe-Noire, Tripoli, Beirut, and St. Petersburg, as well as increased frequencies to São Paulo, Miami, Washington, and Dubai. Popular domestic destinations are Marrakech, Agadir, and Laayoune, often served by smaller ATR aircraft. International routes connect Casablanca to nearly every major European capital, West and Central African economic hubs, and an expanding list of cities in the Americas and the Middle East. Seasonal flights to European beach destinations surge in summer, and charter services for the Hajj pilgrimage are common. The airport is fully operational year-round with flights at all hours, but European short-haul connections are most frequent in the morning and early afternoon.

Getting to and from Mohammed V International Airport

Car Rental at Mohammed V International Airport

Renting a car is an excellent way to explore Morocco at your own pace. Counters for major international and local agencies are located in the arrivals hall of both terminals. Companies include Avis, Hertz, Europcar, Budget, Sixt, and local providers. Avis, for example, is open daily from 7:00 AM to 11:00 PM. Popular vehicle types include economy cars for city trips, SUVs for mountainous terrain, and 4x4s for authentic desert exploration. Booking your car in advance is strongly recommended, especially during peak seasons around April and October, to secure the best rates and ensure your chosen vehicle type is available. For crossing the Atlas Mountains, an upgraded SUV is the wisest choice.

Mohammed V International Airport Taxi Services

The iconic beige/cream-coloured Grand Taxi is the traditional way to go. These are lined up outside arrivals and operate 24/7. Agree on a price before you get in; the standard fare to the Casablanca city center is 300 MAD, roughly $30 USD. For a modern, app-based experience, Careem provides a local rideshare service with fixed pricing. Payment for Grand Taxis is in Moroccan Dirham cash only. Careem allows card payment linked through the app. Avoid any unlicensed drivers who approach you inside the terminal.

Private Car Services at Mohammed V International Airport

For business travelers and families wanting a premium, seamless experience, pre-booked private car services offer a welcome alternative. A uniformed chauffeur will meet you in the arrivals hall with a name sign. These services are bookable online with fixed rates and no haggling, typically using high-end sedans or vans. Expect to pay approximately $50-$70 USD for a trip to the Casablanca city center. This option is perfect after a long overnight flight when comfort and efficiency matter most.

Bus Services at Mohammed V International Airport

A city bus operated by the local M'Dina Bus company connects the airport to central Casablanca. The bus stop is located directly outside Terminal 1. While the fare is extremely cheap at less than $1 USD, this is the least recommended option for visitors with luggage. The journey is very slow, taking over an hour, and the buses can be crowded. The train is vastly superior in every way for the same low cost.

Hotel Shuttles

Several airport-area hotels offer complimentary or paid shuttle service. The Atlas Sky Airport, the closest hotel, provides a free 24/7 shuttle bus on demand. The Relax Airport Hotel and ONOMO Airport Hotel also operate regular shuttles. Arrange pickup in advance by contacting the hotel, and check for signs in the arrivals area. Other major city center hotels like the Hyatt Regency may offer a pre-booked paid car service for a fee of around $30-40.

Parking at Mohammed V International Airport

Parking is secure and conveniently located. The short-term parking garage, P1, is a multi-story structure directly adjacent to the terminals, with enclosed walkways to check-in. This is the best option for stays under a day. Long-term parking, P2, is a large, open-air, gated lot about a 3-5 minute walk from the terminal curbs, suitable for trips of a week or more. Short-term parking costs around $0.50 per hour, with daily maximums of $10. Long-term parking is priced at approximately $7-$8 per calendar day. Payment is made at automated machines that accept cash (Dirhams) and major credit cards before you return to your car. Electric vehicle charging stations are not yet widely installed in the public parking lots. The parking website for more details is onda.ma.

Places to explore near Mohammed V International Airport

• Casablanca City Center (30 km/18 miles, ~40 min drive): The Hassan II Mosque, one of the world's largest, is a breathtaking marvel of Moroccan architecture built partly over the Atlantic Ocean. Explore the Art Deco streets of the old town, the Corniche beachfront, and Rick's Café.
• Rabat (120 km/75 miles, ~75 min drive): Morocco's elegant, clean capital city. Visit the Kasbah of the Udayas, the Hassan Tower, and the peaceful Andalusian Gardens.
• Marrakech (240 km/150 miles, ~2.5 hours drive): Ideal for a first-day dash if your heart is set on the vibrant souks, Jemaa el-Fna square, and stunning riads of the Red City. The highway makes it an easy, straight drive.
• Mohammedia (60 km/37 miles, ~45 min drive): A relaxed coastal city with beautiful gardens and clean beaches, perfect for a short getaway from Casablanca's bustling center.
• Bouskoura Forest (10 km/6 miles, ~15 min drive): The closest green lung to the city and airport. A beautiful place for a morning jog, horse riding, or a tranquil walk through eucalyptus trails.

Local Weather and Best Time to Visit Casablanca

Casablanca has a Mediterranean climate tempered by the cool Atlantic Ocean current. Summer (June-September) is warm and sunny, with average highs of 25-28°C (77-82°F). Autumn (October-November) is arguably the best time to visit, with pleasant temperatures around 20-25°C (68-77°F) and fewer crowds. Winter (December-February) is mild, with highs of 17-19°C (63-66°F), but brings rain and can feel chilly in unheated buildings. Spring (March-May) brings blooming landscapes and comfortable warmth. The best time to visit is in April, May, and October—warm enough for beachside dining but perfect for city exploring without the peak summer hotel prices.

Essential Travel Tips

👉 Arrival Time Recommendation: Arrive at Mohammed V International Airport at least 3 hours before an international flight and 2 hours for a domestic one. The multiple queues for security, police checks, and sometimes secondary x-rays can be unpredictable.

👉 Flight Status: Always check the monitors inside the terminal, as gate changes can occur. The airport's new operational center has improved real-time information dissemination, but gate agents still make announcements in French and Arabic primarily.

👉 Packing Advice: A light jacket or pashmina is essential year-round because planes and terminals can be aggressively air-conditioned. If you are carrying Moroccan souvenirs back, carefully wrap ceramics in clothing.

👉 Currency: Bring some Euro or US Dollar cash to exchange upon arrival. While cards are accepted at the airport, Morocco remains a cash-centric society. Small Dirham bills are essential for taxis and small cafes immediately upon leaving the airport.

👉 Language: French is the airport's operational language, followed by Arabic. English is spoken at airline desks but is less common in small cafes or with taxi drivers. Learning "Salam Alaikum" (hello) and "Shukran" (thank you) goes a long way.

👉 Driver's License: To rent a car, your national driver's license is accepted if it is written in English or French. If not, you will need an International Driving Permit (IDP). An IDP is always recommended for interactions with police checkpoints outside the city.

👉 Fuel Stations: Fill up your rental car at the Shell or Afriquia stations located on the main road (Route de Nouasseur) just a 1 km drive from the airport terminal before returning your car.

About the City

Casablanca is Morocco's electrifying economic capital and largest city, home to over 3.7 million people. Immortalized by the classic Hollywood film, the city is a far, glamorous cry from the movie set—it is a real, gritty, and awe-inspiring metropolis where colonial Art Deco facades sit cheek-by-jowl with ornate Moorish architecture. The city pulses with commerce by day, while the breezy seaside promenade of La Corniche comes alive with seafood restaurants and modern clubs at night. Local cuisine is an absolute highlight; your trip doesn't start until you have eaten a steaming bowl of bessara (fava bean soup) from a street cart or shared a towering platter of grilled seafood. Using Casablanca as a base, travelers get a genuine, untouristed version of Moroccan urban life with direct, easy access to the more famous imperial cities. Few cities match its unique, energetic rhythm.

Start Your Journey at Mohammed V International Airport

Your Moroccan adventure begins the moment you touch down at Mohammed V International Airport in Casablanca. As the gateway to an entire continent, this airport connects you immediately to the romance of North Africa. Whether you are here for a quick business trip to the city center or embarking on an epic road trip to the blue streets of Chefchaouen or the saffron-dusted dunes of the Sahara, the smartest way to unlock the country's treasures is with your own set of wheels. Do not wait until you land in a new culture to navigate the chaos of taxi haggling. Book your rental car in advance, walk straight out of the terminal, and feel the freedom of the open Moroccan road. Reserve your vehicle today and begin the journey.