Buying a SIM Card in Rabat for Travelers 2024: Guide from Locals

Buying a SIM card in Rabat is your first step to seamless communication during your Moroccan adventure.

This article is perfect for travelers looking for easy connectivity with a SIM card in Rabat. In this guide, you’ll discover the best mobile carriers, where to grab the best SIM card deals in Rabat, and whether an eSIM might fit your travel needs better. With some local tips and practical advice, you’ll be all set to stay connected while enjoying everything Rabat has to offer!

I. Why Buy a SIM card in Rabat?

In Morocco, local SIM cards can be hard to get, especially for tourists. You’ll need to provide proof of residency and a Moroccan ID and undergo a lengthy registration process. You can avoid all those troubles with an international SIM card and connect quickly.

Benefits of an International SIM card

• Easy to Get: Purchase and activate your SIM card at a local store. Support is available in multiple languages. 
• Global Coverage: Enjoy coverage in Morocco and other countries with no surprise bills or roaming charges. 
• Affordable Data: Get affordable data plans tailored to your needs with no hidden fees.

With an international SIM card, you can easily explore Rabat, find and book activities on the go, and keep in touch with other travelers.

II. Which mobile internet carrier is the best in Rabat?

Maroc Telecom is the best mobile internet carrier in Rabat. According to multiple reports, including those from Opensignal, Maroc Telecom consistently leads in key areas such as network coverage, download speeds, and overall mobile experience in Morocco.

In Rabat, there are three major network operators:

• Maroc Telecom
• Orange Morocco (formerly Meditel)
• Inwi

To help you visualize more about each carrier, this table below is beneficial:

Criteria	Maroc Telecom	Orange Morocco	Inwi
Coverage	Excellent nationwide	Good in urban areas	Decent in cities
Speed	Fastest overall	Competitive	Moderate
Reliability	Highly reliable	Generally reliable	Fairly stable
Tourist Plans	Comprehensive prepaid options	Good variety	Affordable, fewer options

This concise table captures the key aspects of each network operator, making it easy to compare and choose the best option for your needs in Rabat.

III. Best Rabat SIM Card Plans and Price

Here are the best Rabat SIM card plans for tourists:

1. Inwi SIM Cards

• 1 GB, valid for 7 days for MAD 10 ($0.98) 
• 2 GB, valid for 14 days for MAD 20 ($1.96) 
• 3 GB, valid for 14 days for MAD 30 ($2.94) 
• 5 GB, valid for 30 days for MAD 50 ($4.90) 
• 10 GB, valid for 30 days for MAD 100 ($9.80) 
• 20 GB, valid for 30 days for MAD 200 ($19.61)

2. Orange SIM Cards

• 2 GB, valid for 30 days for MAD 49 ($4.79) 
• 20 GB, valid for 30 days for MAD 99 ($9.70) 
• 30 GB, valid for 30 days for MAD 149 ($14.59) 
• 40 GB, valid for 30 days for MAD 199 ($19.48)

3. Maroc Telecom SIM Cards

• 3 GB, valid for 30 days for MAD 59 ($5.77) 
• 14 GB, valid for 30 days for MAD 99 ($9.70) 
• 20 GB, valid for 30 days for MAD 99 ($9.70)

For short stays, Inwi offers great options like 1 GB for just MAD 10, perfect for staying connected without spending much. If you need more data for longer trips, Orange provides solid deals, while Maroc Telecom is also a reliable choice for coverage across the country.

IV. Where to Buy SIM Card in Rabat?

In Rabat, you can purchase a SIM card at several locations, including official stores of the main mobile operators and specific shops across the city:

1. Maroc Telecom Stores: Maroc Telecom, Morocco’s largest mobile operator, has several stores in Rabat. You can get a SIM card for around 30 MAD ($2.94). Locations include: 

• Rabat Agdal: Avenue Fal Ould Oumeir, a busy area. 
• Rabat Hassan: Avenue Moulay Youssef, a central spot.

2. Orange Stores: Orange has various SIM cards and data packages. You can find their stores at: 

• Rabat Hassan: Close to Rabat’s medina for tourists. 
• Rabat Agdal: On Avenue Fal Ould Oumeir, near other shops and services.

3. INWI Stores: INWI is another choice, with stores around the city. Locations include: 

• Rabat Souissi: A neighborhood with many services. 
• Rabat Yacoub El Mansour: A busy area in Rabat.

4. Rabat-Salé Airport: If you fly in, you can buy a SIM card at the airport. Kiosks for Maroc Telecom, Orange, and INWI are in the baggage claim area.

These places offer different SIM card options based on your data needs. Don’t forget to bring your passport when buying a SIM card, as it might be needed for registration.

V. Morocco eSIM card for Rabat – Alternative to SIM Card for travelers

If your phone is eSIM-compatible, there’s no reason not to try an eSIM for your trip to Rabat, Morocco. eSIMs offer convenience, flexibility, and instant activation – perfect for travelers who want to stay connected without the hassle of physical SIM cards.

There are two prominent ways to get an eSIM for Rabat:

• Network carrier websites: Major Moroccan carriers like Maroc Telecom, Orange, and Inwi provide eSIM services, but buying them often requires showing your ID or passport in person, which can be trouble for tourists.
• eSIM providers and retailers: Gigago is a great choice for travelers. We offer eSIMs for Morocco with great features.
  • Instant delivery via email within minutes of purchase
  • No need to visit a physical store or present an ID
  • Wide coverage across Morocco, including Rabat
  • 24/7 customer support
  • Ability to keep your home SIM active for calls/texts while using data abroad

For Morocco, Gigago offers multiple data plan options, starting from 1GB/day for seven days with $8.90 . What is great about Gigago’s Morocco eSIM is that its plans’ costs are diversifying, varying between $8.90 – $34.90 . 

Thus, it does not matter how many Internet users you are and how long your trip is in Morocco; there is always an option for you with Gigago.

VI. What to Prepare to Buy a SIM Card in Rabat

Here’s a concise list of things to prepare:

• Valid passport or national ID card 
• Proof of address (e.g., hotel reservation or rental agreement) 
• Cash in local currency (Moroccan Dirham) 
• Unlocked phone compatible with Moroccan networks 
• Knowledge of basic French or Arabic phrases 
• Awareness of main mobile operators (e.g., Maroc Telecom, Orange, INWI) 
• Copy of passport photo page (some providers may require this)

Remember, requirements may change, so it’s best to check with your accommodation or the specific mobile operator for the most up-to-date information. 

VII. Extra Tips when Buying SIM card in Rabat

Here are some practical tips to consider when buying a SIM card in Rabat:

• Buy SIM cards from authorized dealers or official stores of telecom operators like Maroc Telecom, Orange, or Inwi to avoid scams.
• Check the telecom operator’s coverage before buying a SIM card, especially if you plan to travel to rural areas.
• Activate your SIM card immediately after purchase to avoid any issues with the activation process.
• Keep your SIM card and receipt safe, as you may need them to resolve any issues with your account.
• Check for promotions offered by telecom operators, especially for tourists or students.
• Consider purchasing a prepaid SIM card to avoid any surprise bills or fees.

By following these tips, you can ensure a smooth and hassle-free experience when buying a SIM card in Rabat.

VIII. FAQs

IX. Conclusion

I hope you find this guide helpful for buying a SIM card in Rabat. Staying connected during your travels is essential, and with the right SIM card, you’ll have an amazing experience. For an even more convenient option, consider using a Gigago eSIM, which offers instant activation and wide coverage across Morocco, including Rabat.