Rabat–Salé Airport – RBA

Serving the cities of Salé and Rabat, Morocco, the Rabat-Salé Airport is an international airport used for both civilian and military purposes. The airfield, whose IATA code is RBA, can be found within the city of Salé in the region of Rabat-Salé-Kénitra, around eight kilometers from the capital city, Rabat. Rabat-Salé Airport also doubles as the Royal Moroccan Air Force’s First Air Base. It served as a military aerodrome of the United States Army Air Force and the Royal Air Force during World War II. It was then used by the United States Air Force again during the Cold War, this time as headquarters for the 5th and 316th Air Divisions of their Strategic Air Command (SAC).

Best Time to Visit

In 2018, Rabat-Salé Airport (RBA) accommodated a total of 987,485 passengers. There are two terminals in the airport, but the old one was closed following the inauguration of a new terminal in 2012. The new building can handle 3.5 million passengers yearly and houses various services and amenities, such as shops, café-bar, and ATMs. Don’t forget to drop by the cities of Temara, Bouznika, and Skhirat while you’re in the area.

What to Do & Area Attractions

Guests can find a wide array of accommodations near BouRegreg River in Rabat, some of which are the Dar Nawfal and the 4-star Riad A La Belle Etoile. The Dawliz Resort & Spa is the nearest with just 3.7 miles from the airport. They also provide airport shuttles, a 24-hour front desk service, and available breakfast for their guests. From these hotels, you can easily reach the Grand Mosque, Andalusian Garden, and Rue des Consuls.