Connecting Rabat-Salé Airport (RBA) to the capital by public transport is straightforward thanks to the dedicated Airport Express Bus (Line AE). At 25 MAD per person (40 MAD return), it is the most affordable way into the city centre, stopping at Gare Rabat-Ville and terminating at Gare Rabat-Agdal TGV (official schedule on alsa.ma). Here is how the shuttle service works, where to board, and when a private transfer is preferable.
Key facts
- ALSA Airport Express Bus (Line AE) costs a flat 25 MAD (≈€2.30, 40 MAD return) per passenger.
- Buses depart directly outside the main terminal entrance.
- Key central stops include Gare Rabat-Ville and Gare Rabat-Agdal TGV (official info on alsa.ma).
- Journey time is approximately 35 minutes to Gare Rabat-Ville and 45–50 minutes to Gare Rabat-Agdal TGV (official ALSA schedule).
- Check the day-specific timetable on alsa.ma; frequency varies across the day with an evening gap before night flights.
- For late-night landings or direct riad door-to-door convenience, private transfers start from €16.
The ALSA Airport Express Bus (Line AE)
The official airport shuttle is operated by ALSA (under the Stareo network). These modern, air-conditioned buses feature dedicated luggage compartments and run between the airport terminal forecourt and downtown Rabat. The 25 MAD ticket is purchased directly from the driver upon boarding in Moroccan Dirhams cash. The route crosses the Bouregreg river via the Hassan II bridge, passing through Salé and entering central Rabat.
Key stops: Gare Rabat-Ville & the Medina
The express shuttle serves two primary downtown stops. The first is Gare Rabat-Ville, located on Avenue Mohammed V in the heart of the capital. This stop allows immediate connections to the Rabat-Salé Tramway (Line 1) and ONCF intercity trains to Casablanca, Tangier, and Marrakech. The route terminates at Gare Rabat-Agdal TGV station, with convenient stops at Gare Rabat-Ville (ideal for the Medina and tramway connections). Official info at alsa.ma.
When to take the shuttle vs. a private transfer
The 25 MAD express bus is unbeatable for solo travellers and backpackers on a budget arriving during scheduled daytime hours. However, the service does not operate 24/7 and does not wait if an individual flight is severely delayed. If you are travelling with heavy bags, young children, arriving late at night, or staying in residential Souissi or Agdal, booking a private transfer (from €16) or taking an official grand taxi (150 MAD) saves dragging luggage from the bus stop.
Indicative fares
| Trip / service | Price from |
|---|---|
| Airport Express Bus (Line AE) | 25 MAD |
| Rabat-Salé Tramway (connection in city) | 6 MAD |
| Official Grand Taxi to Rabat centre | 150–200 MAD |
| Pre-booked private transfer | from €16 |
