As a long-time resident of Morocco, I've witnessed many transformative changes in this beautiful country. But perhaps none as exciting as the recent announcement that Morocco will co-host the 2030 World Cup alongside Portugal and Spain. This news has sent waves of enthusiasm through the entire nation - and it's already having a fascinating impact on Morocco's real estate market.
On October 4, 2023, when FIFA announced Morocco as a co-host, Moroccans both at home and abroad celebrated this historic achievement. Beyond national pride, this event represents a massive opportunity for Morocco's development and especially its property sector.
Immediate Market Reaction After the Announcement
According to real estate experts Zineb Byad and Amine Benchekroun from Mubaweb, there was an immediate spike in property inquiries following the announcement:
- Marrakech saw a remarkable 45% increase in property inquiries
- Tangier experienced a solid 15% growth
- Casablanca recorded an 8% rise
These figures represent over 18,800 serious inquiries in just three months after the announcement, with 15% coming from Moroccans living abroad. This sudden interest demonstrates how the World Cup announcement has created immediate opportunities in the property market.
Which Cities Will Benefit Most from the World Cup Effect?
Confirmed Host Cities Leading the Boom
The cities confirmed to host matches - Casablanca, Marrakech, and Tangier - are seeing the strongest market response. Other potential host cities include Rabat, Fez, and possibly Agadir and Tetouan.
Beyond City Centers: The Expanding Real Estate Frontier
What's particularly interesting is that the impact extends beyond just the host cities themselves. The peripheries of these urban centers are already experiencing notable growth. Areas showing promising development include:
- The Casablanca-Rabat-El Jadida corridor
- Mohammedia and its surroundings
- Ben Slimane (where a new stadium is planned)
In fact, land prices in Ben Slimane have already increased by 10-15% as property owners who previously held undeveloped land are now looking to capitalize on this opportunity.
Morocco's Transportation Revolution Driving Property Values
The World Cup is accelerating Morocco's already ambitious transportation infrastructure plans:
- The high-speed train (LGV) between Casablanca and Tangier has reduced travel time to just 2 hours 10 minutes, with plans to cut this to 1 hour 35 minutes
- Plans for LGV to connect Marrakech to Casablanca in just 45 minutes (currently a 2.5-hour journey)
- Potential for Agadir to be connected via high-speed rail
- Recently announced liberalization of Morocco's domestic airspace, allowing low-cost carriers to operate internal routes
- Continued expansion of the national highway network
This connectivity revolution means that even cities not directly hosting matches will benefit from improved accessibility, opening up investment opportunities across a much wider geographical area.
Top Property Types in High Demand
The market is seeing diverse demand patterns across different cities:
Marrakech Market Trends
- 40% of demand is for properties around 500,000 dirhams, typically studios or one-bedroom apartments
- Strong demand for villas, both from international buyers and Moroccans living abroad
- Growing interest in properties suitable for short-term vacation rentals
Casablanca Buyer Preferences
- 70% of demand focuses on properties under 1 million dirhams
- 25% seeking homes under 500,000 dirhams
- Family residences in developing neighborhoods like California, Bouskoura, and Dar Bouazza remain popular, with prices ranging from 1.5-2 million dirhams
Investment Property Hotspots
- Investment properties for rental income represent about 20% of demand
- Concentrated mainly in central Casablanca around the CFC and Bourgogne districts
- Growing interest in Tangier's developing areas due to improved connectivity
The Rise of Apart-Hotels and Morocco's Short-Term Rental Market
One of the most significant trends is the growth of apart-hotels - furnished apartments with hotel-like services. These properties are attracting significant investment in preparation for the World Cup, but their appeal extends far beyond 2030.
The new Law 80.14 (2023) has legalized and regulated short-term rentals like Airbnb, making it easier for property owners to legally offer their homes to tourists. This has created exciting opportunities for investors looking at:
- Tourist-oriented apart-hotels in cities like Marrakech
- Business-focused serviced apartments in commercial centers
- Senior-friendly accommodations
- International hotel brands are increasingly entering this market, bringing professional management and global standards
Direct Housing Aid Program Boosting First-Time Buyers
The recently implemented government housing aid program (effective January 2024) offers significant financial assistance:
- 100,000 dirhams for first-time buyers purchasing homes under 300,000 dirhams
- 70,000 dirhams for homes between 300,000-700,000 dirhams
With the requirement to keep the property for at least five years, buyers in 2024-2025 will be perfectly positioned to either use their properties during the World Cup or capitalize on rental opportunities as the event approaches.
Beyond Residential: Creating Complete Property Ecosystems
Experts emphasize that successful real estate development requires more than just building apartments. A complete ecosystem includes:
- Commercial spaces and retail opportunities
- Quality restaurants and cafes
- Entertainment and leisure facilities
- Premium amenities (concierge services, rooftop spaces, gyms)
Mixed-use developments that combine residential, office, and commercial spaces are increasingly popular and likely to provide better long-term value, especially in areas expected to see increased tourist traffic.
Short-Term vs. Long-Term Investment Strategies
Short-Term Investment Approach (2-3 Years)
- Focus on areas seeing immediate price appreciation near announced stadiums
- Capitalize on potential quick gains in peripheral areas like Ben Slimane
- Consider renovation projects in established neighborhoods
Medium-Term Strategy (3-6 Years)
- Invest in apart-hotels and properties suitable for short-term rentals
- Look at areas along planned transportation corridors
- Consider commercial properties in developing areas
Long-Term Investment Outlook (7+ Years)
- Focus on areas with fundamentally strong growth potential beyond the World Cup
- Consider mixed-use developments that will remain attractive after 2030
- Look for properties in emerging tourism destinations
Best Cities for Real Estate Investment in Morocco
Based on current trends and future prospects, these cities offer the most promising investment potential:
Marrakech
- Strongest growth in demand (45% increase)
- Excellent short-term rental potential
- Established international tourism destination
Tangier
- Strategic location connecting Morocco to Europe
- Benefiting significantly from high-speed rail
- Growing industrial and commercial hub
Casablanca
- Commercial capital with solid long-term growth potential
- More affordable peripheral areas showing strong development
- Best for business-oriented investments
Emerging Opportunities
- Rabat: Administrative capital with stable growth
- Agadir: Potential World Cup host with strong tourism appeal
- Smaller cities along new transportation corridors
The Long-Term Impact on Morocco's Property Market
The World Cup's effect on Morocco's real estate market isn't just a short-term phenomenon. While there might be some speculation-driven price increases initially, the long-term impact will be more sustainable:
- The government is likely to release more land to prevent excessive speculation
- Infrastructure improvements will permanently enhance connectivity
- Morocco's international profile will continue to rise through events like the 2025 African Cup of Nations
- Tourism numbers will grow progressively in the years leading up to 2030
My Personal Perspective as a Long-Term Resident
Living in Morocco since 2013, I've witnessed the country's remarkable development firsthand. The 2030 World Cup represents not just a sporting event but a transformative moment for Morocco's infrastructure, tourism, and real estate sectors.
What's particularly exciting is how this event is accelerating improvements that were already underway - from transportation networks to regulatory frameworks for property rental. These changes will benefit not just international visitors but Moroccans themselves, improving mobility and creating new economic opportunities.
For those considering property investment in Morocco, now may be an ideal time to explore the market - not just for short-term gains related to the World Cup, but as part of a longer-term investment in a country whose star is clearly rising on the global stage.
Ready to Explore Morocco's Real Estate Opportunities?
Thinking of investing in Morocco's growing property market? Let's discuss the best opportunities! Comment below with your questions or reach out directly for personalized insights based on your investment goals. Whether you're looking for a vacation home, rental investment, or long-term property appreciation, now is the perfect time to explore what Morocco has to offer.
Great article! In love with Morocco as country , with people and culture! And the question is – what sources to look for in order to get more information about this subject – such as listings, rules , etc.
thank you
Thank you so much, Julia! I’m thrilled to hear you love Morocco—it truly is a special place, rich in warmth, culture, and opportunity.