Quick Answer
The most convenient and direct way to get from Fes Saiss Airport (FEZ) to Sidi Mohamed Ben Abdellah University is by taking an official airport taxi or a pre-booked private transfer. The journey takes 30-45 minutes and costs approximately 120-200 MAD ($12-$20). For the cheapest option, use a combination of a petit taxi and local bus for under 20 MAD ($2), though it requires a transfer and takes about 60-90 minutes.
Taxi & Private Transfer: Door-to-Door Convenience
This is the most straightforward method, ideal for first-time visitors, those with luggage, or travelers arriving at odd hours. Fes has two main types of taxis: Grand Taxis (larger, beige cars, often Mercedes) for longer trips and intercity routes, and Petit Taxis (small, red cars) for short trips within the city. Only Grand Taxis are authorized to pick up passengers directly from the airport terminal.
Step-by-Step Guide for Airport Taxis:
- Find the Taxi Rank: After exiting baggage claim, the official airport taxi rank is located directly outside the arrivals hall.
- Negotiate the Fare: There are no meters for this fixed route. Agree on the total price to your specific faculty or gate at the university before getting in the car. The standard fare to the Dhar El Mehraz university area is 120-200 MAD.
- Key Tips:
- Have the destination written in Arabic or French to show the driver.
- Carry small bills (50, 20 MAD notes) to pay the exact fare.
- For a more comfortable and fixed-price option, consider pre-booking a private transfer online, which costs 250-400 MAD but offers meet-and-greet service.
Public Bus & Petit Taxi: The Budget Choice
This is the most economical method but involves at least one transfer. Public buses in Fes are run by the AAFES (Urban Agency of Fes) and are very cheap, though they can be crowded and slower.
Detailed Route & Steps:
Important: There is no direct public bus from the airport terminal to the university. You must first reach the city center.
- Airport to City Center: From the airport, you need to take a petit taxi. You must walk about 5-10 minutes from the terminal to the main road (Route de Sais) to hail one, as they cannot wait at the airport. A short ride to the main Gare Routière (CTM Bus Station) or Batha Square should cost 10-15 MAD.
- Catch the University Bus: From the city center, find the bus stop for Line 17 (Direction: Dhar El Mehraz / Université). This line has a stop directly at the main university campus gates.
Bus Line Route Frequency Fare Line 17 Batha / Ville Nouvelle -> Dhar El Mehraz (University) Every 20-30 mins ~5 MAD Line 20 City Center -> Saïss (Near some faculties) Every 25-35 mins ~5 MAD - Total Cost & Time: Petit Taxi (15 MAD) + Bus (5 MAD) = ~20 MAD. Total travel time: 60 to 90 minutes.
Train Option: An Indirect and Not Recommended Route
While Morocco has an excellent rail network (ONCF), using it for this specific journey is inefficient. Fes Saiss Airport does not have a train station. The nearest station, Fès-Ville, is located in the city center, far from both the airport and the university.
Why the Train is Not Practical:
- Double Transfer Required: You would need: 1) Taxi from Airport to Fès-Ville Station, 2) Train (which you don't actually need), 3) Another taxi/bus from Fès-Ville Station to the University.
- No Time or Cost Savings: This method is more expensive and time-consuming than a direct taxi or the bus/taxi combo. It only makes sense if you are arriving from another city (like Casablanca or Rabat) directly to Fès-Ville station, not from the airport.
- ONCF Information: For general train schedules in Morocco, check the official ONCF website.
Ride-Hailing & Car Rental
Ride-Hailing Apps (Heetch)
Uber and Careem do not operate in Fes. The local alternative is Heetch, an app-based taxi service. However, availability for airport pickups can be inconsistent, and drivers may call to negotiate a cash price off the app. It can be cheaper than official airport taxis (around 80-150 MAD for this trip) if you can get one.
Renting a Car at Fes Saiss Airport
Major international and local rental companies (Hertz, Avis, Europcar, etc.) have desks at the airport. Renting a car gives you freedom but comes with challenges:
- Navigation: Signage to the university area is decent, but using Google Maps/Waze is essential.
- Traffic & Parking: Traffic in Fes can be hectic. More importantly, parking on the Dhar El Mehraz university campus is extremely limited and often permit-only. Confirm parking arrangements with your faculty before choosing this option.
- Cost: Daily rates start from ~250 MAD/day, plus fuel and insurance.
Cost & Time Comparison: Fes Airport to University
| Transport Method | Approximate Cost (MAD / USD) | Travel Time | Convenience / Notes | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Airport Taxi (Grand Taxi) | 120 - 200 MAD ($12 - $20) | 30 - 45 min | Direct, available 24/7, price negotiation needed. | Most travelers, groups of 2-4, those with luggage. |
| Pre-booked Private Transfer | 250 - 400 MAD ($25 - $40) | 30 - 45 min | Door-to-door, fixed price, driver meets you with a sign. | First-time visitors, families, stress-free arrival. |
| Public Bus + Petit Taxi | ~20 MAD ($2) | 60 - 90 min | Very cheap, requires a transfer and some walking, can be crowded. | Solo budget travelers, students comfortable with local transport. |
| Rental Car | 250 MAD+/day + fuel | 30 - 50 min | Total freedom, but challenging parking and traffic. | Travelers exploring beyond Fes, those with confirmed campus parking. |
Our Recommendation: For a balance of cost, speed, and ease, the official airport taxi is the best all-around choice. For the absolute lowest budget, use the bus/taxi combo.
Essential Traveler Tips & Advice
Before You Arrive:
- Have Cash (Moroccan Dirhams): Taxis and buses are cash-only. Withdraw money from the ATM in the airport arrivals hall (best rates) or exchange a small amount at the bureau de change.
- Know Your Precise Destination: "Sidi Mohamed Ben Abdellah University" covers a vast area. Have the full address or name of your specific faculty (e.g., Faculty of Sciences Dhar El Mehraz) saved on your phone, ideally in Arabic.
- Download Offline Maps: Download the Fes area on Google Maps or use Maps.me. This helps you track your taxi route and find bus stops.
At the Airport & On the Way:
- Taxi Negotiation: Be polite but firm. A simple "Combien à l'université Dhar El Mehraz?" (How much to Dhar El Mehraz university?) is a good start. If the price seems high (over 200 MAD), be willing to politely decline and talk to the next driver.
- Bus Travel: Bus drivers rarely speak English. Say "Université" and show 5 MAD. Keep your belongings close in crowded buses.
- Peak Traffic Times: Avoid traveling between 8-9 AM and 5-7 PM on weekdays if possible, as traffic around the university and city center can double your travel time.
- Verify the Route: If taking a taxi, casually mention a landmark near the university (like "près de la Faculté de Médecine") to ensure the driver knows the exact location.
FAQs: Getting from Fes Airport to Sidi Mohamed Ben Abdellah University
What is the fastest way to get from Fes Saiss Airport to Sidi Mohamed Ben Abdellah University?
The fastest way is by taxi or pre-booked private transfer, taking approximately 30-45 minutes depending on traffic, directly from the airport arrivals hall to the university gates.
What is the cheapest way to travel from FEZ Airport to the university?
The cheapest option is to take a local bus. First, take a petit taxi from the airport to the main city bus station (Gare Routière), then catch bus line 17 or similar towards Dhar El Mehraz. The total cost is under 20 MAD ($2).
Are there direct trains from the airport to the university?
No. Fes Saiss Airport does not have a train station. The closest major train station is Fès-Ville, located in the city center. From there, you would need to take a taxi or bus to reach the university campus, making it an indirect and often longer option.
How much does a taxi cost from the airport to Sidi Mohamed Ben Abdellah University?
An official airport taxi (Grand Taxi) to the university typically costs between 120 and 200 MAD ($12-$20). Always agree on the price or insist on using the meter before starting your journey.
Can I use ride-hailing apps like Uber or Careem at Fes Airport?
Uber and Careem do not currently operate in Fes. The local alternative is the Heetch app, which is sometimes used. However, for airport pickups, official taxis and pre-booked private transfers are the most reliable options.
Is it safe to travel from the airport to the university at night?
Yes, it is generally safe. Your best options for late-night arrivals are airport taxis, which operate 24/7, or a pre-booked private transfer. Public bus services may have limited schedules after evening hours.
Which part of the university should I tell the taxi driver?
Sidi Mohamed Ben Abdellah University (USMBA) has multiple faculties. Be specific: know the exact faculty name (e.g., Faculty of Sciences and Techniques) or the precise address. Showing a map pin on your phone is highly recommended.
Are there any shuttle services for students from the airport?
The university does not typically run an official airport shuttle for general students. New international students should check with their specific faculty or exchange program coordinator, as some may organize welcome pickups.