Melita Airport

Djerba-Zarzis International Airport (DJE), also known as Melita Airport, is the main aerial gateway to the enchanting Tunisian island of Djerba. Opened in 1970 to directly attract tourists to the island, today it welcomes travelers from all over the world, serving as the starting point for exploring the southern resorts of Tunisia. The modern terminal building, designed in an elegant Arabic style, creates an atmosphere of hospitality from your very first moments on this sunny land.

Djerba-Zarzis Airport is focused on the comfort of tourists arriving for their holidays. Although it has one main terminal, it offers everything necessary for travelers. At your service are Duty Free shops, souvenir stalls where you can buy memorable gifts, several cafes and restaurants, currency exchange bureaus, ATMs, and a post office. The airport handles numerous seasonal and charter flights from Europe, making it particularly lively during the tourist season.

Getting from the airport to your hotel or the city center of Midoun is effortless. The most convenient method is to use a taxi, with a rank located directly at the terminal exit. The trip to the island's main resort zones will be quick and relatively inexpensive. For tourists arriving on package tours, group transfers by bus are typically organized.

To contact representatives of Djerba-Zarzis International Airport (DJE), serving Midoun and the entire island, you may use the following contact details:

• Official Website: www.oaca.nat.tn (Website of the Office of Civil Aviation and Airports of Tunisia)
• Information Desk Phone: +216 75 650 233
• Address: Aéroport International de Djerba-Zarzis, 4120 Djerba, Tunisie
• Email: A direct email for general inquiries is not published. It is recommended to use the contact form on the official website for communication.
• Lost Luggage Information: For issues related to lost or damaged luggage, you should primarily contact your airline's representative. You may also contact the baggage handling service at the airport by phone: +216 75 653 531 (Tunisair Handling).
• Social Media: Official news and updates are published on the pages of the managing company OACA (Office de l'Aviation Civile et des Aéroports).

Reaching Melita Airport from the city of Midoun and other resort areas on the island of Djerba in Tunisia is quite simple thanks to the well-developed transport infrastructure. Depending on your budget and preferences, you can choose one of several convenient methods.

Public Transport on the island is represented mainly by buses connecting key cities and tourist zones. This is the most economical option — the fare is usually only 1–2 Tunisian Dinars (TND). However, note that bus routes do not always pass directly through the airport. You may need to get off at the nearest stop and take a taxi for the final part of the journey. It is best to check schedules and routes locally.

Taxi and Transfer is the most popular and convenient way to get to the airport. Official yellow taxis are easy to find anywhere in Midoun and tourist districts. The trip from the city center will take approximately 15–20 minutes. The estimated cost by meter during the day is 15–25 Tunisian Dinars (TND); a higher tariff applies at night. It is recommended to ensure the driver turns on the meter or to agree on the price in advance. Another convenient option is to book a private transfer. This can be arranged online or through your hotel, guaranteeing a fixed price and a comfortable journey without any hassle.

Car Rental is an excellent choice for those who prefer independence and plan to explore the island on their own. You can drive to the airport in a rented car and return it at the rental company's desk right before your flight. The roads on Djerba are of good quality, and signs are sufficiently clear. This option offers maximum freedom of movement.

For travelers arriving in their own or rented vehicles, parking is available at Melita Airport. There are zones for both short-term and long-term parking, allowing you to leave the car for the duration of your absence.

Djerba-Zarzis Airport (DJE), also known as Melita Airport, is a modern and functional aviation hub designed to handle a large flow of tourists. Its structure is simple and intuitive, making navigation easy even for first-time visitors.

The airport consists of one passenger terminal that serves both international and domestic flights. Thanks to this, you won't have to worry about transferring between different buildings. The terminal is divided into two main zones: the arrivals area and the departures area. All services, from check-in counters to passport control and baggage claim, are located within a single building, which significantly simplifies movement.

The airport layout is logical. The ground floor typically houses airline check-in counters and the arrivals area with baggage carousels and customs control. After checking in for the flight and dropping off luggage, passengers proceed to the first floor, where they undergo pre-flight security screening and passport control, after which they enter the spacious departure lounge featuring Duty Free shops, cafes, and boarding gates.

Although there is only one terminal, during the peak tourist season (especially in summer), the time required for formalities may increase due to the large number of charter flights. It is recommended to arrive at the airport at least 2.5-3 hours before an international flight. This time will be sufficient to calmly check in, drop off luggage, and pass all necessary controls without rushing.

To navigate the terminal, follow the signs, which are displayed in Arabic, French, and English. Thanks to the airport's compact size and thoughtful layout, getting lost here is practically impossible. All key points — from the entrance to the boarding gate — are within walking distance of each other.

The history of Djerba-Zarzis Airport (DJE), sometimes referred to by the island's ancient name Melita, is inextricably linked to the development of tourism in Tunisia. The aerial gateway of Djerba Island was officially opened in 1970. The main goal of construction was to create modern infrastructure to receive the growing flow of European tourists who discovered the beauty and unique culture of this region. From the very beginning, the airport became a key factor in economic growth for Djerba and the southeastern part of the country.

Over the years, as the resort's popularity grew, the airport was expanded multiple times. The most significant modernization phase occurred in the 2000s. In 2007, a new, modern terminal was opened, significantly increasing the airport's capacity to 4 million passengers per year. This step was necessary to meet the demand from leading European airlines and tour operators. Runways and navigation equipment were updated, allowing for the reception of various types of aircraft.

Throughout its history, Djerba-Zarzis Airport has not been associated with loud historical events of a global scale; its chronicle is a success story in the tourism sector. It consistently ranks among the top three busiest airports in Tunisia, second only to the capital's airport and Monastir Airport. During peak seasons, it handles hundreds of charter flights, connecting the island with dozens of cities across Europe. Its main achievement is the transformation of Djerba Island and the nearby city of Midoun into a thriving international resort.

One interesting fact is related to its unofficial name — Melita. This is an ancient name that, according to one version, the island bore during the times of the Phoenicians or Romans. The modern terminal, despite its functionality, incorporates elements of traditional Djerba architecture — white walls, arched openings, and blue accents, allowing tourists to immerse themselves in the island's atmosphere immediately upon arrival. Thus, the airport is not just a transport hub, but a calling card of the "Island of Dreams," as Djerba is often called.

Melita Airport (DJE), serving the island of Djerba, provides passengers with a range of services for a comfortable wait before their flight. Although the airport is not very large, it has everything necessary for travelers arriving at the resort or flying home.

For those wishing to have a snack or shop, the terminal features cafes and restaurants where you can order drinks, snacks, and dishes of local and international cuisine. Duty Free shops offer a standard assortment of perfumes, beverages, and tobacco products. Additionally, you can find souvenir stalls offering Tunisian handicrafts, spices, and sweets — an excellent option for buying last-minute gifts.

For a more comfortable wait, the airport has a VIP lounge. Passengers can use its services for an additional fee to relax in a quiet environment with access to refreshments and snacks. Free Wi-Fi is available within the terminal, along with designated areas with outlets for charging electronic devices.

Financial services are represented by bank branches, currency exchange bureaus, and ATMs located in the arrivals and departures halls. In case of necessity, passengers can visit the medical point for first aid. Mother and child rooms are provided for travelers with small children.

Passengers with reduced mobility are provided with assistance for moving through the airport, boarding, and disembarking from the aircraft. It is recommended to book this service in advance through your airline. There are no specialized business centers or conference halls at the airport, but basic business services may be available in the VIP lounge. There are no hotels directly on the premises of Melita Airport, but numerous hotels and resort complexes are located just a few minutes away by taxi.

Melita Airport (DJE) on the island of Djerba offers passengers several basic but convenient options for a snack or a full meal before departure. The selection of establishments here is not as vast as in major international hubs, but it is quite sufficient to satisfy hunger and spend time comfortably while waiting for a flight.

The main dining area is located in the departure zone (airside), after passing passport control and security screening. Here you will find the main self-service restaurant (cafeteria-style), where you can find the most substantial meals. The assortment usually includes hot dishes (for example, pasta, chicken with a side dish), various salads, sandwiches, and desserts. This is the best place for those who want a full lunch or dinner. Although the menu is primarily international, you can sometimes find elements of Tunisian cuisine.

For a quick snack and coffee, the airport has several cafes and bars. They are located both in the public zone (landside), before check-in, and in the departure zone. This is an ideal option to enjoy a cup of coffee, the famous Tunisian mint tea, a croissant, or local pastries. Soft drinks, juices, and light snacks are also sold here. The opening hours of establishments are usually tied to the flight schedule, so you will always be able to find an open cafe before a morning or evening flight.

Regarding special dietary needs, finding certified gluten-free or vegan dishes may be difficult. Passengers with such restrictions are advised to look for options among fresh salads or fruits. Vegetarians usually find it easier — the menu often includes cheese sandwiches or vegetable salads. Practically all food at the airport complies with Halal standards. Prices for food and drinks at Djerba Airport, as in most airports around the world, are noticeably higher than in the city.

Recommendation: if you are short on time, grab a coffee and a sandwich at one of the cafes in the departure zone. If you have a couple of hours before your flight, head to the self-service restaurant for a more substantial hot meal. However, if you wish to enjoy authentic Tunisian cuisine at a reasonable price, it is best to do so before arriving at the airport.

To ensure your journey from the city of Midoun goes smoothly, arrive at Melita Airport (Djerba-Zarzis) well in advance. For international flights, it is recommended to be on-site 2.5–3 hours before departure, especially during the peak tourist season. This will give you enough time to complete all pre-flight formalities without rushing. For domestic flights within Tunisia, 1.5–2 hours is usually sufficient.

To save time, use online check-in if your airline provides this option. Keep your passport and boarding pass ready at the airport. The security screening procedure is standard but can be quite thorough. Security staff speak several languages, including French and English, which facilitates communication.

Hand luggage rules are generally standard: liquids in containers up to 100 ml must be packed in a transparent bag. Sharp objects and flammable substances are prohibited. If you are carrying olive oil or harissa as souvenirs, it is better to check the transport rules with the airline in advance — most likely, they will need to be checked in as luggage. When choosing a seat on the plane, note that window seats will offer you breathtaking views of Djerba Island during takeoff and landing.

If you have a connecting flight, verify in advance whether you will need to collect and re-check your luggage. When entering the country, customs control usually amounts to a document check, but upon departure, there may be inquiries regarding antiques or large sums of local currency, the export of which is restricted. Keep receipts for expensive purchases.

To save money, exchange the bulk of your currency in the city, as the rate at the airport is usually less favorable. It is better to book transfers to the hotel in advance online or use official taxis with a fixed rate to avoid inflated prices. Buying water and snacks is also cheaper outside the airport.

In case of a flight delay, first find the information board to get the latest updates. Then contact your airline representative — they should provide clarifications and, depending on the duration of the delay, offer drinks, food, or hotel accommodation. There are several cafes and Duty-Free shops in the airport where you can pass the time while waiting for departure.