Ryanair Strengthens Its Presence in Morocco with a Base in Rabat
A New Strategic Base Starting April 2026
The airline Ryanair, in partnership with the Moroccan National Tourism Office (ONMT), has announced the opening of a new base in Rabat starting April 2026. This will be Ryanair’s fifth base in Morocco, featuring two aircraft based there, 20 operated routes, and an investment of $200 million.
The announcement was made on Wednesday at Rabat-Salé Airport during an official ceremony attended by the Minister of Tourism, Handicrafts, and Social and Solidarity Economy, Fatim-Zahra Ammor.
A Major Lever for the National Tourism Strategy
The Minister emphasized that this new base fits within the exceptional tourism dynamics currently experienced by Morocco, under the enlightened vision of His Majesty King Mohammed VI. She indicated that this investment is a tangible reflection of the tourism roadmap’s directives, particularly concerning air connectivity, while generating a significant economic impact in the region.
Seven New International Routes from Rabat
As part of this expansion, seven new international routes will connect Rabat to Milan Bergamo, Baden-Baden, Frankfurt Hahn, Nuremberg, Porto, Pisa, and Valencia starting summer 2026. Overall offerings will exceed more than 18 weekly flights, representing an additional 79,000 seats in the international market and a 49% increase in Ryanair operations from Rabat Airport.
Rabat, a Standalone Tourist Destination
For ONMT, this announcement marks a pivotal step in diversifying the Kingdom’s entry points and enhancing Rabat’s appeal as a tourist destination. Its Director General, Achraf Fayda, stated that this partnership aligns perfectly with the national strategy for air connectivity and anticipates major international events, notably the 2030 World Cup.
An Investment Creating Jobs
Eddie Wilson, CEO of Ryanair, further clarified that this new base brings the airline’s total investment in Morocco to over $1.6 billion, supporting more than 8,500 direct and indirect jobs. The opening of this base will lead to a 45% increase in Rabat’s air capacity and generate over 800 local jobs, including 60 highly skilled positions.
Aviation at the Heart of Morocco’s Attractiveness
By consolidating Ryanair’s presence in Rabat, ONMT reaffirms its pivotal role in structuring national air connectivity, making aviation a strategic lever for enhancing attractiveness, territorial balance, and Morocco’s international visibility.
