Dakhla Airport: Your closest gateway to the lagoon

Dakhla Airport, officially named Moulay Ali Cherif Airport (IATA code: VIL, ICAO code: GMMH), is the main and most convenient gateway for all visitors wishing to discover the famous Dakhla lagoon and its surroundings.

Strategically located at the entrance to the city of Dakhla, this international airport enjoys an exceptional location on the Atlantic coast, offering direct and quick access to one of the most popular destinations for water sports enthusiasts and nature lovers.

A modern hub undergoing rapid expansion

Opened in 2010, the airport has a terminal covering approximately 3,000 square metres, designed to handle up to 300,000 passengers per year. The infrastructure can accommodate four medium-sized aircraft simultaneously, ensuring smooth air operations even during peak tourist periods. The airport’s modern facilities ensure a safe and comfortable welcome, meeting international civil aviation standards.

The airport continues to expand in line with the region’s tourism and economic growth. In February 2023, a terminal exclusively dedicated to business and private aviation was inaugurated, reflecting Dakhla’s growing appeal to high-end customers. This 424-square-metre facility includes premium areas such as VIP lounges, offices, a dedicated waiting area and separate boarding and disembarking areas. In addition, a new main terminal was planned for 2024 to further improve capacity and the quality of services offered to travellers.

Easy connections to the lagoon

The airport provides regular connections to major Moroccan cities, including Casablanca and Marrakech, making it easy for domestic and international visitors to organise their trip to the lagoon. Internationally, direct flights connect Dakhla to Madrid, Paris Orly and Las Palmas in the Canary Islands, making it much easier for European visitors attracted by the lagoon’s exceptional conditions for kitesurfing, windsurfing and sport fishing.

As soon as you arrive at the airport, you will notice that the city of Dakhla is very close by. For example, the Medina Hotel Dakhla is only a 5-minute drive (about a 30-minute walk) from the airport exit, while the Oasis Dakhla hotel is only a 10-minute drive away. These distances clearly illustrate how close the airport is to the city’s main establishments and points of interest, which is a major advantage for travellers.

How to get to Dakhla city centre from the airport?

By taxi: The main option

Taxis are the most convenient way to reach Dakhla city centre, located about six kilometres from the airport. The journey takes between fifteen and twenty minutes. Taxis are parked outside the terminal and do not have meters. It is advisable to agree on the fare before departure, which is generally between £6 and £10 depending on the exact destination.

Other transfer options

The airport does not have a city bus service. However, many hotels offer private shuttles, either included in the accommodation price or charged as an extra. Booking a private transfer with a designated driver in advance is also a particularly suitable option for groups or travellers with bulky luggage.

We strongly advise you to enquire directly with your hotel when making your booking or to consult the services offered on their website in order to take advantage of this transfer facility.