The Ultimate Guide to Renting a Car at Oujda Angads Airport
Welcome to Oujda! You’ve just landed at Angads Airport, the gateway to the incredible, sun-drenched Oriental region of Morocco. While Oujda itself is rich with history, the real treasures—the golden beaches of Saïdia, the mountains of Tafoughalt, and the lagoons of Nador—are all just a drive away.
And the best way to see them all? With the keys to your own rental car, picked up right here at the airport.
For a first-timer, the process might seem new, but it’s incredibly simple. This guide will walk you through everything you need to know for a smooth, fast getaway.
1. The Golden Rule: Pre-Book Your Car
This is the single most important tip. While you can try to rent a car on arrival, pre-booking online (with Ouailcar, for example) is the smart move.
- Why? Price & Availability. During peak season (summer and holidays), cars sell out fast—especially SUVs and family-sized vehicles. Booking on the spot often means higher prices and fewer choices.
- The Seamless Experience: When you pre-book, your car is reserved and waiting. You’re not waiting for a car. It’s the difference between starting your vacation immediately or starting it with stressful negotiations.
2. The Arrival Process: From Baggage Claim to Driver’s Seat
Oujda Angads is a modern, easy-to-navigate airport. The car rental process is designed to be quick.
- Baggage Claim: Collect your luggage as normal.
- Enter the Arrivals Hall: After customs and baggage, you’ll enter the main arrivals area.
- Find the Car Rental Desks: The rental counters are right in the arrivals hall—you can’t miss them.
- Meet Your Agent: If you’ve booked with a reputable company like Ouailcar, your agent will either be at the counter or waiting with a sign bearing your name for a personalized service.
3. Your Essential Document Checklist
To make the paperwork take less than 10 minutes, have these items ready in your hand:
- Driver’s License: A valid license from your home country, ideally held for at least one or two years.
- International Driving Permit (IDP): Not always mandatory, but highly recommended for non-Roman alphabet licenses (Arabic, Chinese, etc.) or as an official translation.
- Passport: Required for identification.
- Credit Card: Must be in the main driver’s name for the security deposit. Debit cards are generally not accepted.
- Reservation Confirmation: Have your booking confirmation printed or on your phone.
4. Before You Leave: The 5-Minute Inspection
Once the paperwork is done, your agent will walk you to your car in the airport parking lot. Before you drive off, take five minutes to do a quick check. This builds confidence and avoids any issues later.
- Walk-Around: Note any scratches or dents on the rental agreement form. (Tip: Take a quick video of the car’s condition for your own records.)
- Check the Fuel: Most rentals use a “full-to-full” policy. Make sure the tank is full when you start.
- Test the A/C: Turn on the air conditioning. In Eastern Morocco, A/C isn’t a luxury—it’s essential.
- Locate the Essentials: Find the controls for headlights, wipers, and hazard lights before leaving.
5. Your First Drive: Airport to Oujda City
You have your keys, the car is perfect, and you’re ready. Don’t be nervous—the drive from Oujda Airport to the city center is very easy.
- The Route: The airport is about 12–14 km from the city center.
- The Journey: The drive takes only 15–20 minutes via the well-maintained N2 highway.
- Key Driving Tips:
- Drive on the right side of the road.
- Roundabouts: Give priority to vehicles already in the roundabout (coming from your left).
- Stay alert for scooters and pedestrians, especially as you approach the city.
Start Your Journey the Right Way
Renting a car at Oujda Angads Airport is the most practical, cost-effective, and liberating way to begin your Moroccan adventure. It transforms your trip from a schedule-bound tour into a true exploration.
By booking in advance and keeping your documents ready, you can be on the road to the beaches of Saïdia just minutes after you land.
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