Fes-Saiss Airport

Fes-Saiss Airport is not merely a transit point, but a true modern gateway to the ancient spiritual capital of Morocco. Located amidst the region's picturesque plains, this air hub immediately immerses travelers in an atmosphere of Eastern hospitality, thanks to a terminal architecture that elegantly blends high-tech design with traditional Moroccan patterns. Every year, it attracts an increasing number of adventurers eager to witness the famous Medina of Fes with their own eyes, offering a comfortable start to a grand Moroccan journey.

Features and Advantages

The airport's main pride is the new terminal, opened in 2017. Its design is a work of art, where massive glass facades allow ample natural light to enter, creating a play of shadows through intricate mashrabiya-style patterns. This allows passengers to feel the country's unique character immediately upon landing, even before stepping out into the city.

Fes-Saiss Airport is notable for its compactness and convenient navigation, eliminating the long queues and complex transfers typical of giant hubs. Travelers will find all necessary amenities here: from currency exchange counters and car rentals to cosy cafes and a duty-free shopping zone. Additionally, the airport boasts excellent transport links with the city: the budget-friendly bus No. 16 runs regularly, connecting the terminal to the central train station in Fes.

If you need to contact representatives of Fes-Saiss Airport (FEZ), please use the following contact information. We recommend verifying the data on the official website as it is subject to change.

• Official Website: Up-to-date information on flights, services, and airport regulations can always be found on the official portal of the National Airports Office of Morocco (ONDA): www.onda.ma.
• Information Desk Phone: For immediate inquiries, you can call: +212 535-624800.
• Airport Address: Aéroport Fès-Saïss, BP A11, 30000, Fes, Morocco.
• Email: A direct email address for general inquiries is not published. It is recommended to use the contact form on the official ONDA website for communication.
• Lost Luggage Information: In case of loss or damage to baggage, you should first contact your airline's representative at the airport. Service counters are usually located in the arrivals hall.
• Passenger Support Service: For general questions, you can approach the information desks located within the airport terminal or call the information service number.

Fes-Saiss Airport (FEZ) is located approximately 15 km south of the city centre of Fes, one of the most enchanting imperial cities of Morocco. Passengers have several options to reach the air hub, varying in cost, speed, and comfort level.

Public Transport is the most economical option. Bus No. 16 runs regularly between the main railway station of Fes and the airport. The journey usually takes about 40-50 minutes, though time may vary depending on traffic conditions. The ticket price is very low, around 4-5 Moroccan Dirhams. This is an excellent choice for budget travellers without heavy luggage, though please note that buses can be crowded.

Taxi and Transfer are the fastest and most convenient methods. For trips to the airport, you should use "Grand Taxis" (large taxis) which operate on fixed rates. A trip from the city centre will take approximately 20-30 minutes, costing around 120-150 MAD. It is important to agree on the price with the driver before starting the journey. You can also book a private transfer online in advance, guaranteeing a meet-and-greet at the right time and a fixed price, which is particularly convenient for families and groups.

Car Rental offers maximum freedom of movement, especially if you plan to explore the region beyond Fes. Several international and local rental companies have counters at the airport. For those arriving at the airport in their own vehicle, there is an official car park with zones for both short-term and long-term parking.

If you cannot find suitable direct flights to Fes, you might consider airports in neighbouring cities. Alternatives include Sale Airport in Rabat, located approximately 164 km away, or Nador Airport, situated 214 km away. From these cities, Fes can be easily reached by train or intercity bus.

Fes-Saiss Airport (FEZ) is a modern and relatively compact aviation hub serving the cultural capital of Morocco, the city of Fes. Navigation within is intuitive, making it convenient even for first-time visitors. The airport consists of two connected terminals (T1 and T2), which effectively function as a single building.

The main load is handled by the new terminal (T1), opened in 2017. It serves the majority of international and scheduled flights. This terminal features a modern design, spacious halls, and a wide range of amenities, including shops, cafes, and relaxation zones. The old terminal (T2) is used for some budget, charter, and domestic flights. Since both terminals are under one roof, moving between them is done on foot and takes just a few minutes—no special transport is required.

The airport layout is standard and logical. The Departures Zone is located on the upper floor and includes check-in counters, security and passport control points, as well as boarding gates. The Arrivals Zone is on the lower floor, where passengers go through passport control, collect baggage, and pass through customs. Signage in the airport is provided in Arabic, French, and English, significantly simplifying navigation.

To complete all pre-flight formalities, it is recommended to arrive at the airport well in advance. For international flights, it is best to allow about 2.5–3 hours, and for domestic flights — 1.5–2 hours. During peak seasons, queues for check-in and security can be long, so extra time will help avoid unnecessary stress. Overall, thanks to its compactness and clear structure, Fes-Saiss Airport leaves a pleasant impression and ensures a comfortable start or end to your journey.

The history of Fes-Saiss Airport (FEZ) is closely tied to the development of Fes as a major cultural and tourist centre in Morocco. Originally built as a military airfield during the French protectorate era, it gradually transformed into the region's key civil transport hub. In the post-war years, with the growth of commercial aviation, the airport began accepting its first civil flights, opening the ancient capital to travellers from around the world.

A real breakthrough in the airport's development occurred in the 21st century with the arrival of low-cost carriers. This caused a sharp increase in passenger traffic and presented the management with the task of large-scale modernisation. The most significant event in the airport's recent history was the opening of the new terminal in 2017. This modern complex, designed with Moroccan architectural motifs, increased the airport's capacity several times over—from 500,000 to 2.5 million passengers per year.

Interesting fact: the name "Saiss" comes from the fertile plain of the same name on which the city of Fes is located. Today, the airport does not just receive flights—it serves as a gateway to the rich history and culture of the Fes-Meknes region, being a crucial element of its tourism infrastructure. Thanks to continuous improvements and the expansion of its route network, Fes-Saiss Airport continues to play a key role in connecting this unique corner of North Africa with Europe and the rest of the world.

Fes-Saiss Airport (FEZ) is a modern and comfortable aviation hub offering passengers all necessary services for a pleasant start or conclusion to their trip around Morocco. Conditions here are created to make your wait for a flight as convenient as possible.

Restaurants and Shops: Several cafes and coffee spots are located within the terminal where you can have a snack, or enjoy Moroccan mint tea or coffee. They serve both local snacks and international cuisine. For shopping enthusiasts, there are Duty Free shops offering a wide range of perfumes, cosmetics, and confectionery, as well as stalls with authentic Moroccan souvenirs, leather goods, and Argan oil.

Comfort and Connectivity: Free Wi-Fi is available throughout the airport, allowing you to stay in touch with loved ones or handle work matters. Special stations are provided for charging electronic devices. Passengers preferring enhanced comfort can utilise the VIP Lounge (Pearl Lounge), which offers beverages, snacks, and a quieter atmosphere for waiting.

Financial and Other Services: The airport has several currency exchange counters and ATMs where you can withdraw local dirhams. A medical centre is available for first aid. Luggage wrapping services are also available.

For Passengers with Special Needs: The airport is equipped for the comfortable movement of passengers with reduced mobility—ramps, elevators, and specially equipped restrooms are available. Families with small children can use the mother and child rooms to care for their little ones.

Business and Accommodation: There are no hotels directly inside the airport building, but several hotels are located in the immediate vicinity and can be easily reached by taxi. For business travellers, the VIP lounge provides essential work amenities such as internet access and quiet zones. There are no specialised conference halls within the terminal.

At Fes-Saiss Airport (FEZ), passengers will find several options for a snack or a full meal to help pass the time while waiting for a flight. Although the selection here is not as vast as in giant hubs, you certainly won't go hungry.

Most dining establishments are concentrated in the Departures Zone (airside), after passing passport control and security screening. Here you will find cafes and a small restaurant where you can spend time comfortably. In the public zone (landside), the choice is usually more modest, limited to small coffee shops convenient for grabbing a coffee while meeting or seeing off loved ones.

Regarding cuisine, travellers are offered both international and local flavours. We highly recommend taking this last opportunity to enjoy Moroccan cuisine. Look out for dishes such as tagine (if available on the menu) or at least pastries and the famous Moroccan mint tea. Sandwiches, salads, and pastries in the cafes are perfect for a quick bite. For a more substantial lunch, it is better to choose the restaurant in the departures zone where hot meals can be ordered.

Special dietary needs are also taken into account. Practically all food in Morocco is Halal by default. Vegetarians can find salads, vegetable sandwiches, or couscous with vegetables. Gluten-free and vegan options might be harder to find, but salads or fresh fruits are available almost everywhere.

Be prepared for prices at the airport to be significantly higher than in the city of Fes. A full lunch for one person will cost on average 15-25 Euros, and a cup of coffee or tea—around 3-5 Euros. Opening hours are generally aligned with flight schedules, especially in the departures zone, so you will always be able to find an open cafe before a morning or evening flight.

To ensure your journey through the airport of Fes goes as smoothly as possible, follow these tips. Fes-Saiss Airport (FEZ) is an important transport hub in Morocco, and proper preparation will help avoid stress and save time.

Arrival Time: For international flights, it is recommended to arrive at the airport at least 3 hours before departure. This will give you enough time to complete all formalities without rushing, especially during the peak tourist season when queues can be longer than usual.

Check-in and Security: Keep your passport, visa (if required), and boarding pass handy. Security screening procedures are standard but can take time. To speed up the process, remove all electronic devices and liquids from your hand luggage in advance. Be prepared that security staff may ask a few standard questions about the purpose of your trip.

Seat Selection: If you have the option to choose a seat during online check-in, try to get a window seat. In clear weather, take-off or landing can offer picturesque views of the surrounding landscapes and the foothills of the Atlas Mountains.

Hand Luggage Rules: Standard restrictions on carrying liquids (no more than 100 ml per container, up to a total volume of 1 litre) apply here as well. Ensure there are no prohibited items in your hand luggage, such as knives or other sharp objects. If you are carrying Argan oil or other local products as souvenirs, check the transport rules with your airline.

Transfer Passengers: If you have a connecting flight, ensure you do not need a transit visa. Study the airport map in advance to quickly find the necessary gate. Keep in mind that re-screening by security will also take time.

Customs Control: When entering or leaving the country, you may need to declare large sums of cash (usually over 100,000 Moroccan Dirhams) or valuable goods. Keep receipts for major purchases. Customs officers may conduct random baggage checks.

Saving Time and Money: Use online check-in to save time at the airport. Exchanging currency is more favourable in the city rather than at the airport, where the rate is usually less attractive. It is better to order a taxi through official counters or apps, agreeing on the price beforehand to avoid overpaying.

In Case of Flight Delay: If your flight is delayed, first contact your airline representative for information and instructions. Monitor updates on the information screens. Depending on the length of the delay, the airline may be obliged to provide you with drinks, meals, or even hotel accommodation.