Noumerate Airport

Noumerate Airport, also known as Moufdi Zakaria Airport, serves as the main aerial gateway to the unique M'zab Valley region, located in the heart of the Sahara Desert. This transport hub does not merely receive aircraft but also acts as the starting point for travellers seeking to witness the famous ksour cities, inscribed on the UNESCO World Heritage list. The atmosphere here is much more tranquil than in capital hubs, allowing guests of Algeria to begin their acquaintance with the desert without unnecessary bustle and stress.

Noumerate Airport possesses a number of features that make it convenient for tourists and business travellers visiting this colourful region:

• Compactness and Efficiency: The main advantage of the airport is its small size. There are practically none of the queues typical of large international hubs. Passing through passport control, security screening, and baggage claim takes minimum time, allowing you to start your journey through the country sooner.
• Cultural Significance: The air harbour bears the name of Moufdi Zakaria, a prominent poet and the author of the Algerian national anthem, who was a native of the M'zab Valley. This gives the place a special symbolic status and highlights the local residents' pride in their history.
• Strategic Location: The airport is located in close proximity to the city of Ghardaïa (about 20–30 minutes by taxi), making transfers quick and inexpensive. It is an ideal starting point for excursions around the five ancient cities of the oasis.
• VIP Service Availability: Despite its regional status, the airport offers VIP lounge services for passengers wishing to await their flight with enhanced comfort, as well as basic amenities such as cafes and souvenir kiosks featuring products from local artisans.

• Official Website: www.egsa-ghardaia.dz
• Information Desk Phone: +213 29 87 23 00 (please consider the international code when calling from abroad)
• Address: Aéroport de Ghardaïa - Noumérat - Moufdi Zakaria, BP 403, 47000, Ghardaïa, Algeria
• Email: contact@egsa-ghardaia.dz
• Social Media: Currently, the airport does not maintain official pages on social networks. We recommend obtaining up-to-date information on the official website.
• Lost Luggage Information: For issues related to searching for lost or damaged luggage, please contact your airline's representative at the airport directly.
• Passenger Support Service: For general questions and consultations, you may use the airport information desk phone number.

Getting to Noumerate – Moufdi Zakaria Airport (GHA) from the city of Ghardaïa is not difficult, as it is located approximately 19 kilometres southeast of the centre. A journey by car usually takes about 20-30 minutes depending on traffic conditions.

Taxi and Transfer — this is the most popular and convenient way to reach the airport. You can find a taxi in the city or order one through your hotel. It is recommended to agree on the fare with the driver in advance, as not all cars are equipped with taximeters. For greater peace of mind, you can book a private transfer online in advance, especially if you are travelling with a large amount of luggage or at an inconvenient time. The cost of a taxi ride is relatively low by international standards.

Public Transport in the form of buses running between the city and the airport may be available; however, the schedule can be irregular, and the routes may not be the most convenient for tourists. This option is more suitable for experienced travellers ready for adventure and having time to spare. For most visitors to Algeria, a taxi remains the preferred choice.

Car Rental — an excellent option for those planning to explore the M'zab region independently. Car rental desks operate at the airport and in Ghardaïa itself. If you arrive at the airport in a rented or private car, parking is at your service, where you can leave your vehicle for both short and long terms.

Noumerate Airport (GHA), serving the city of Ghardaïa and the surrounding regions of Algeria, is a compact and easy-to-navigate aviation hub. Its main feature is the presence of only one passenger terminal, which handles both domestic and international flights.

Thanks to this simple structure, all airport infrastructure is concentrated in one building. Departure and arrival zones are located in different parts of the terminal but within walking distance of each other. You will not have to worry about complex transfers or using shuttles — everything is under one roof. Check-in counters, the security zone, the waiting lounge, and baggage claim belts are arranged logically and sequentially.

Passing through all pre-flight formalities at Noumerate Airport usually does not take much time. Due to moderate passenger traffic, check-in and security screening generally take no more than 30-45 minutes. Nevertheless, it is always recommended to arrive with time to spare: 1.5–2 hours before departure for domestic destinations and 2–3 hours before an international flight.

To navigate the terminal, simply follow the standard signs in French and Arabic. The path from the entrance to the boarding gate is intuitive. The main advice for travellers flying from Ghardaïa: there is no need to worry about getting lost. The compact dimensions of the airport make it extremely convenient and allow you to orient yourself quickly, even if you are here for the first time.

Noumerate Airport, officially known as Ghardaïa – Noumerate – Moufdi Zakaria Airport (IATA: GHA), is a key transport hub for the city of Ghardaïa and the entire M'zab Valley region in Algeria. Its history is closely linked to the development of this unique part of the Sahara.

The history of the airport began in 1954, when it was opened, initially performing the functions of a military airfield. Its creation was a strategically important step to ensure transport accessibility for the remote region. Over time, with the growth of the economic and tourist importance of the M'zab Valley, the airport began serving civil flights as well, becoming a crucial gateway for travellers and specialists working in the oil and gas industry.

One of the landmark moments in the airport's history was naming it after Moufdi Zakaria — a prominent Algerian poet and author of the country's national anthem, who was a native of this region. This decision immortalised the memory of a great son of the Algerian people and highlighted the cultural significance of the M'zab Valley.

A key stage of modernisation was the opening of a new, modern passenger terminal in 2007. This large-scale reconstruction allowed for a significant increase in the airport's capacity, improved the quality of passenger service, and brought the infrastructure in line with international standards. Today, Noumerate Airport continues to play a vital role, connecting this historic oasis with the rest of the world and contributing to its economic prosperity.

Noumerate Airport (GHA), serving the colourful city of Ghardaïa, provides passengers with the necessary set of services for a comfortable wait before departure. Despite its modest size, the airport strives to meet the basic needs of travellers setting off to explore the beauties of Algeria.

In the terminal building, you will find a small cafe where you can drink coffee and have a snack with sandwiches or local pastries. There is also a shop selling souvenirs, press, and travel goods. For those who value enhanced comfort, a VIP lounge may be available; access conditions are best checked with airline or airport representatives. Throughout the terminal, Wi-Fi access is generally provided, and there are power outlets in the waiting halls for charging electronic devices.

For passenger convenience, ATMs are installed in the airport, and a currency exchange point may also operate. In case of unforeseen health situations, a medical point is active in the terminal, ready to provide first aid. Families with small children can use the mother and child room or changing tables in the restrooms. Passengers with reduced mobility are provided with special assistance, including escort and provision of wheelchairs; however, it is strongly recommended to book this service in advance through your airline.

There are no hotels within the airport itself; however, a wide selection of accommodation options can be found in the nearby city of Ghardaïa, which is easily accessible by taxi. Specialised business centres or conference halls are absent at the airport, as it is oriented primarily towards serving tourist traffic.

Noumerate–Moufdi Zakaria Airport (GHA), serving the city of Ghardaïa, is a small regional airport, so the choice of catering establishments here is quite limited. Passengers should not expect a large food court as in major international hubs, but basic opportunities for a snack before departure are available.

The main place where food and drinks can be found is a small cafe or snack bar, located, as a rule, in the public zone of the airport (before passing passport control and security). Here you can buy sandwiches, pastries, crisps, chocolate, as well as hot and cold drinks — coffee, tea, water, and sodas. Sometimes a similar point with a more modest assortment may be located in the sterile area, in the departure lounge.

For those wishing to try something local, it is worth looking for traditional Algerian mint tea if it is on the menu. This is an excellent way to experience the culture of Algeria while waiting for your flight. Regarding a full lunch, it is practically impossible to find one at the airport. It is better to dine at one of the city's restaurants before travelling to the airport.

Specialised dietary options, such as vegan, vegetarian, or gluten-free dishes, will likely be absent. However, all food in establishments, as in the country as a whole, is halal by default. Prices at the airport are usually moderate but slightly higher than in the city. Cafe opening hours are generally tied to the flight schedule, and they may be closed during quiet periods between departures.

To ensure your journey through Noumerate Airport in the city of Ghardaïa goes as smoothly as possible, it is worth familiarising yourself with a few useful tips in advance. Proper preparation will help save time, money, and nerves, making the start of your adventure in Algeria or your departure from it comfortable and pleasant.

Arrival and Check-in: It is recommended to arrive at the airport at least 2-3 hours before international flights and 1.5-2 hours before domestic ones. This will give you enough time to pass all formalities without haste. If the airline offers online check-in, use it to save time. Keep your passport, visa (if required), and ticket at hand for quick verification.

Hand Luggage and Seat Selection: Standard rules for carrying liquids in hand luggage apply here too: containers up to 100 ml must be packed in a transparent bag. Check the weight and dimension allowances for hand luggage with your airline in advance. When choosing a seat on the plane, consider your preferences: a window seat offers beautiful views, while an aisle seat allows you to stand up and stretch your legs freely.

Transfers and Customs: If you have a connecting flight, follow the "Transit" or "Connections" signs. You may need to pass security screening again. When passing customs control, be ready to present your passport and fill out a declaration if you are carrying goods subject to declaration. Answer the questions of the service staff calmly and clearly.

Saving Time and Money: To avoid unnecessary expenses, bring an empty water bottle with you, which can be filled after passing security control. Prices for food and drinks at airports are usually higher, so a light snack packed at home will come in handy. To save time, study the airport map and the location of your boarding gate in advance.

In Case of Flight Delay: If your flight is delayed, first contact your airline representative for up-to-date information. Depending on the duration of the delay, the airline may be obliged to provide you with drinks, meals, or even hotel accommodation. Remain calm and monitor the information on the departure boards.