Buying real estate in Rabat-Salé?

We've created a guide to help you avoid pitfalls, save time, and make the best long-term investment possible.

16 strong forecasts for real estate in Rabat-Salé in 2025

Last updated on 

Authored by the expert who managed and guided the team behind the Morocco Property Pack

buying property foreigner Morocco

Everything you need to know before buying real estate is included in our Morocco Property Pack

What will happen in Rabat-Salé’s real estate market? Will prices go up or down? Is Rabat still a hotspot for foreign investors? How is Morocco’s government impacting real estate policies and taxes in 2025?

We’re constantly asked these questions because we’re deeply involved in this market. Through our work with notaries, real estate agents, and clients who buy properties in Rabat-Salé, we’ve gained firsthand insights.

That’s why we created this article: to provide clear answers, insightful analysis, and a well-rounded perspective on market predictions and forecasts.

Our goal is simple: to ensure you feel informed and confident about the market without needing to look elsewhere. If you think we missed the mark or could do better, we’d love to hear your thoughts. Feel free to message us with your feedback or comments, and we’ll work hard to improve this content for you.

How this content was created 🔎📝

At Sands Of Wealth, we study the Rabat-Salé real estate market every day. Our team doesn't just analyze data from a distance—we're actively engaging with local realtors, investors, and property managers throughout the place. This hands-on approach allows us to gain a deep understanding of the market from the inside out.

When working on this content, we started by gathering insights from these conversations and our own observations. But we didn’t stop there. To make sure our predictions are reliable, we also dug into trusted sources like the OECD, DLA Piper, and the European Investment Bank (among many others).

We are committed to accuracy and authority. Any forecast lacking strong backing from reliable data or expert opinions was set aside. For the forecasts that pass our initial screening (meaning, we consider there is enough solid data to consider them credible), we take things a step further by incorporating insights from trusted real estate blogs, industry publications, and expert analyses. This additional information helps us gain a clearer perspective without compromising reliability. Naturally, we also draw on our own experience and knowledge.

Trustworthiness is key to us. Clear citations are provided throughout this article, allowing you to see exactly where our information comes from. To ensure our explanations are easy to read and engaging, we used an AI-powered writing tool—but only for this specific purpose.

To make the data even more accessible, our design team created custom infographics that highlight key trends and comparisons. We hope you find them helpful.

Finally, every illustration, screenshot, and other non-text media was produced in-house and added manually.

If you think we could have done anything better, please let us know. You can always send a message. We answer in less than 24 hours.

1) Short-term rental demand in Rabat will rise as tourism recovers after the pandemic

Rabat's short-term rental market is set to thrive as tourism bounces back post-pandemic.

In 2023, Rabat-Salé Airport welcomed 3% more tourists than in 2022, and by October 2024, traveler numbers had jumped by 42% from the previous year. This surge shows Rabat's growing allure as a travel hotspot.

Short-term rental properties are seeing positive trends too. In June 2023, occupancy rates in tourist accommodations hit 51%, with a 14% rise in overnight stays compared to June 2022. By October 2024, occupancy rates climbed to 58%, highlighting a steady demand for these rentals.

The government is actively boosting tourism in Rabat-Salé. Their strategic plan aims to attract 26 million visitors to Morocco by 2030. Part of this plan includes doubling the number of beds in the Rabat-Sale-Kenitra region by 2026, making the area even more appealing to tourists.

Projects like the construction of an Exhibition Center are also in the works, further enhancing the region's tourist appeal. These developments are expected to draw more visitors, increasing the demand for short-term rentals.

With these initiatives and the rising number of tourists, Rabat's short-term rental market is on the brink of a significant boost, offering promising opportunities for property investors.

Sources: Hespress, TourHQ, Walaw Press

2) European buyers will find Rabat's real estate market more appealing because of favorable exchange rates

Rabat's real estate market is catching the eye of European buyers thanks to favorable exchange rates.

In 2023, the Euro to Moroccan Dirham exchange rate hit a high of 11.245 MAD per Euro, making Rabat properties more affordable for Europeans. This has led to a noticeable increase in interest from European buyers, who are finding that their money goes further in Rabat compared to major cities back home.

Rabat offers a unique blend of affordability and value, which is hard to find in many European capitals. European buyers are getting more bang for their buck in Rabat, making it an attractive option for those looking to invest in property.

The Moroccan government is also playing a part by offering incentives to attract foreign investment. Favorable legal frameworks for foreign property ownership are in place, making it easier for Europeans to buy property in Rabat.

Improved connectivity between Europe and Rabat is another factor drawing in European buyers. With more flight options, it's now easier than ever for Europeans to visit and invest in the city, adding to its appeal.

These elements combined are making Rabat an increasingly attractive destination for European property buyers, who are keen to take advantage of the current market conditions.

Sources: Exchange Rates, City Population, Global Property Guide

infographics rental yields citiesRabat-Salé

We did some research and made this infographic to help you quickly compare rental yields of the major cities in Morocco versus those in neighboring countries. It provides a clear view of how this country positions itself as a real estate investment destination, which might interest you if you’re planning to invest there.

3) Prices for high-end villas in Rabat will rise moderately as wealthy buyers look for exclusivity

The high-end villa market in Rabat is set for a moderate price increase as wealthy buyers seek exclusivity.

In recent years, Morocco has seen a surge in its affluent population, with the number of millionaires rising by 28% over the past decade. This growing pool of high-net-worth individuals is driving demand for luxury properties. In Rabat, areas like Souissi and La Palmeraie are particularly sought after, but the limited availability of high-end villas in these prime locations adds to their allure.

This scarcity naturally leads to price appreciation. Recent sales data shows a 0.8% increase in nominal prices for villas in Rabat during the first quarter of 2024. Wealthy buyers are increasingly drawn to these exclusive properties, further fueling the market's upward trend.

Urban development projects, such as the Bouregreg River Valley redevelopment, are enhancing the appeal of Rabat's luxury neighborhoods. These initiatives, combined with global trends favoring luxury real estate, are boosting the market's growth potential. Surveys reveal that wealthy buyers have a strong preference for exclusivity, which aligns perfectly with the characteristics of Rabat's high-end villas.

Rabat's luxury real estate market is not just about the properties themselves but also the lifestyle they offer. The city's exclusive neighborhoods provide a unique blend of privacy, prestige, and proximity to cultural landmarks, making them highly desirable for affluent buyers.

As the demand for luxury villas continues to rise, Rabat's high-end market is expected to maintain its momentum. The combination of limited supply, urban development, and a growing number of wealthy buyers creates a perfect storm for a moderate price increase.

Sources: Global Property Guide, AGBI, Tadamun, Agenz

4) Rental yields in Salé will drop because of too many new apartments

Salé is experiencing a construction boom in new apartments.

By 2024, the city saw a surge in multi-family completions, reaching 606,000 units annually, a significant jump from the pre-pandemic average of 359,000 units. This means more options for buyers, but also more competition for landlords.

Currently, there are 920,000 multi-family homes under construction, marking a 50.4% increase from pre-pandemic levels. This influx is adding a substantial number of units to the rental market, which could lead to an oversupply.

While specific vacancy rates for Salé aren't available, the trend indicates that finding tenants is becoming tougher. This often results in longer vacancy periods and lower rental yields, especially in new apartment complexes.

Rental prices in Salé have been on a downward trend. For example, the median asking rent in major metros like Rabat-Salé dropped by $23 from the previous month and $40 from its August 2022 peak, hitting smaller units like studios and one-bedroom apartments the hardest.

Landlords are reportedly struggling to find tenants, leading to longer vacancy periods. In high-supply markets, rent concessions are becoming common to attract tenants, further impacting rental yields.

Media reports and government data frequently highlight the construction boom in Salé, showing that housing supply is outpacing demand. This oversupply is a key factor in the declining rental market.

Sources: Realtor.com, CRE Daily

5) Renovation projects in Salé's historic districts will attract local and international investors

Salé's historic districts are becoming a hot spot for investors, thanks to rising property prices in nearby Rabat.

As Rabat becomes pricier, Salé offers a more affordable alternative for real estate enthusiasts. This shift is part of a larger trend where secondary cities are gaining traction in the real estate market. The Moroccan government is also making waves by rolling out policies that encourage foreign investments in real estate, especially in historic properties.

These policies come with incentives for renovating old buildings, making Salé's historic districts even more appealing to both local and international investors. The buzz around Moroccan real estate is growing, and it's expected to spill over into Salé, particularly in its charming historic areas.

Tourism is another big player here. Salé's rich cultural heritage is drawing more visitors, which in turn is sparking interest in renovation projects. The city's historic districts are perfect for cultural tourism, offering unique experiences that attract investors looking to capitalize on this trend.

Urban development plans are also in the mix, often focusing on preserving and promoting historic areas. These plans can include initiatives to restore and renovate historic buildings in Salé, further boosting its appeal to investors.

With all these elements in play, Salé's historic districts are poised to become a magnet for renovation projects, drawing in both local and international interest. Investors are eyeing these areas as prime opportunities for growth and development.

Sources: DBS Morocco, Dataestur

Get fresh and reliable information about the market in Rabat-Salé

Don't base significant investment decisions on outdated data. Get updated and accurate information with our guide.

buying property foreigner Rabat-Salé

6) Foreign investment in affordable housing in Salé will grow as international developers look for new opportunities

Salé is set to attract more foreign investment in affordable housing for several compelling reasons.

Morocco is seeing a surge in foreign direct investment, with $1.6 billion expected in 2024, one of the highest in its history. This shows a growing interest from international investors in the Moroccan real estate market, especially in cities like Salé.

The Moroccan government is actively creating a welcoming environment for foreign investors. Through major reforms under the New Development Model, they aim to boost private investment and improve social protection, particularly in housing. These changes are designed to make Morocco more appealing to international developers, including those eyeing Salé.

There's a strong demand for affordable housing in urban areas like Salé, driven by a growing urban population and economic recovery. Morocco's young and expanding workforce highlights the need for more affordable housing options. This demand, coupled with government incentives and economic stability, makes Salé an attractive spot for investment.

International developers are on the lookout for new opportunities, and Salé offers a promising combination of factors. The city's appeal is enhanced by government incentives and a stable economy, making it a prime destination for those looking to invest in affordable housing.

As the urban population grows, the demand for affordable housing in Salé is expected to rise. This trend, along with the Moroccan government's proactive measures, positions Salé as a key player in attracting foreign investment in the housing sector.

Sources: AGBI, OECD Economic Survey of Morocco 2024

7) Fewer foreign investors will buy in Salé as they turn to more developed markets

Foreign investment in Salé's real estate is dwindling as investors turn their attention to more developed markets.

Globally, there's been a noticeable drop in foreign direct investment, and Salé is feeling the pinch. Property transactions worldwide fell by 31% through June 2024, according to Deloitte, with a significant dip in dollar volumes last year. This trend is steering investors towards markets that promise higher returns.

Take the U.S., for example, where foreign investment remains strong. Chinese investors are snapping up properties, especially in California, where the average purchase price hits $1.3 million. This shows a clear preference for established markets that offer stability and potential for growth.

Surveys back this up, with the Association of Foreign Investors in Real Estate (AFIRE) finding that most investors plan to maintain or boost their U.S. investments. This highlights a strong inclination towards stable and developed markets, leaving places like Salé less attractive.

The pandemic has only accelerated this shift. Experts predict a continued focus on developed markets, as Deloitte's commercial real estate M&A outlook suggests. Investors are increasingly eyeing domestic assets, which further diminishes the allure of less developed regions such as Salé.

In essence, the trend is clear: foreign interest in Salé's real estate is waning as investors prioritize more promising opportunities elsewhere.

Sources: Deloitte, Socotra Capital

8) Stricter building rules in Salé will raise construction costs to ensure earthquake-resistant structures

In 2023, a 6.8 magnitude earthquake hit Morocco, shaking up the Rabat-Salé region.

This quake was a wake-up call, showing just how vulnerable the area is to seismic activity and the pressing need for safer buildings. By 2024, the Moroccan Government Council had rolled out new earthquake-resistant construction rules to boost the resilience of buildings, especially in high-risk zones like Rabat-Salé.

These new regulations are all about making sure buildings can handle future quakes better, cutting down on damage and saving lives. Experts are pushing for advanced engineering techniques like flexible steel frames and base isolation systems, which are already part of Morocco's updated rules. This aligns with what countries like Chile and Japan are doing to stay safe.

People are now more aware and demanding safer homes, especially after recent quakes. This public push is speeding up the adoption of stricter building codes, which means construction costs are going up as builders adapt to these new standards.

In Rabat-Salé, the focus is on making sure new buildings are tough enough to handle earthquakes. This shift is not just about safety; it's also about meeting the growing demand for secure housing, which is reshaping the construction landscape.

As these regulations take hold, expect to see a change in how buildings are designed and built, with a clear emphasis on earthquake resilience. This is a crucial step for the region, ensuring that future constructions are not only modern but also safe.

Sources: Hespress, Earthquake Track, Prevention Web

statistics infographics real estate market Rabat-Salé

We have made this infographic to give you a quick and clear snapshot of the property market in Morocco. It highlights key facts like rental prices, yields, and property costs both in city centers and outside, so you can easily compare opportunities. We’ve done some research and also included useful insights about the country’s economy, like GDP, population, and interest rates, to help you understand the bigger picture.

9) Changes in foreign ownership laws will impact international investment in Rabat's property market

In early 2024, Rabat's property market saw a 3.1% drop in residential transactions, hinting at a cooling trend.

Morocco is making it easier for foreigners to invest by liberalizing foreign exchange regulations. The new IGOC 2024 rule, which lets resident foreigners transfer directors' fees after tax, is part of this effort. This change could boost foreign investment in Moroccan businesses and, by extension, the property market.

Foreigners can own land in Morocco, except in agricultural areas, which makes the country attractive to international investors. This openness could lead to more foreign participation in Rabat's property market. However, the recent decline in transactions suggests that other factors, like economic conditions, might still be at play.

Rabat's property market is influenced by broader economic conditions and regulatory changes. While the government is trying to attract more foreign investors, the market's cooling trend indicates that these efforts might not be enough to counteract other economic pressures.

Insider knowledge suggests that changes in foreign ownership laws could significantly impact international investment in Rabat. Investors are keeping a close eye on these developments, as they could alter the landscape of the property market.

As Rabat's market navigates these changes, potential buyers should consider how regulatory shifts might affect their investment decisions. The evolving legal landscape could either open new opportunities or present new challenges for international investors.

Sources: DLA Piper, Property Wire

10) Salé will become more appealing to commuters as new infrastructure improves connectivity

Salé is becoming a commuter's dream with its new infrastructure projects.

The Rabat Tramway is getting a major boost, extending 23.7 km to Temara and Sale Jadida by 2028 and 21.3 km to Agdal and Laayada by 2030. This means easier access to the city center and better links between Salé, Rabat, and Temara. Imagine hopping on a tram and reaching colleges or train stations without the usual hassle.

Public transport is also stepping up its game. The Rabat-Salé tramway, a lifeline for many, runs every 8 minutes during rush hour, handling 172,000 passengers daily. With two lines and 43 stations, it's all about getting you from A to B quickly and comfortably.

New tramway lines and bridges are set to slash travel times between Salé and Rabat. This means less time stuck in traffic and more time for what matters. It's a game-changer for those working in Rabat but considering living in Salé.

Sources: Hespress, Wikipedia, European Investment Bank

11) Luxury apartment prices in Rabat will steadily rise because supply is limited

Rabat's luxury apartment prices are set to rise steadily due to a limited supply of new developments.

The redevelopment of the Moroccan Bouregreg River Valley has played a big role in this. By restricting new land for luxury projects, it has made it harder to find space for new developments. This project has also stirred up some controversy, as it affects private land ownership, further squeezing the chances for new luxury builds in the Rabat-Salé area.

On top of that, there's a growing appetite for luxury living spaces, thanks to Morocco's strong economic growth. In 2023, the country's GDP saw a boost, increasing by 10%, which means more disposable income for wealthy locals and expatriates. This economic boom has sparked a craving for luxury apartments, creating a demand that outstrips the available supply.

Rabat's urban development master plan, recently updated after a decade, might also play a part. It could include zoning laws that limit new construction in certain areas, further tightening the supply of luxury apartments. This adds to the upward pressure on prices, as fewer new apartments are being built.

Existing luxury apartments are seeing high occupancy rates, which is another sign of strong demand. This reinforces the issue of limited supply, as more people are looking for luxury living spaces than there are available.

Sources: Tadamun, Walaw Press, Hindustan Times

Don't buy the wrong property, in the wrong area of Rabat-Salé

Buying real estate is a significant investment. Don't rely solely on your intuition. Gather the right information to make the best decision.

housing market Rabat-Salé

12) First-time buyers will stabilize prices in Salé as affordable housing projects continue to attract them

The Moroccan government has rolled out a program to make home ownership easier for low-income and middle-class families.

With this initiative, buyers can get up to 100,000 Dirhams for homes priced at 300,000 Dirhams or less. This is a game-changer for first-time buyers, especially young folks in Morocco's growing middle class. As more young people aim to buy their first homes, the demand for affordable housing in Salé is set to increase.

Salé is getting a lot of buzz in the media as a hotspot for first-time buyers, thanks to the government's push to make housing more affordable. This positive attention, along with government efforts, is likely to keep attracting new buyers to the area.

On top of that, the National Association of REALTORS predicts a 20% growth in mortgage originations from 2024 to 2025. This expected growth, paired with more affordable housing options, suggests that prices in Salé will stay stable, making it a great choice for new buyers.

Affordable housing projects in Salé will keep drawing in first-time buyers, which will help stabilize prices in those areas.

Sources: CG Government, NAR Realtor

13) Prices for older apartments in Salé will drop as new buildings offer better amenities

In 2023 and 2024, new property developments surged in Rabat, especially in well-connected neighborhoods.

Looking ahead to 2025, this trend is set to continue, with moderate growth expected in Casablanca and Rabat. The real estate market in Rabat is heating up, thanks to a growing appetite for homes with modern amenities. This demand is pushing apartment prices up to 14,500 MAD/m², while villas are holding steady at around 20,300 MAD/m².

In Salé, older apartment buildings are losing their charm as buyers flock to newer developments. This shift is particularly noticeable in areas benefiting from infrastructure upgrades, like the expansion of the Rabat-Sale-Temara tramway network.

While we don't have specific numbers on occupancy rates for older buildings in Salé, the trend is clear: newer properties are drawing more interest. This is largely due to the enhanced amenities and improved connectivity offered by these developments.

As Rabat continues to grow, the focus is on modern living spaces that cater to the needs of today's buyers. This shift is reshaping the market, making older properties less appealing.

Sources: Agenz.ma, Barlaman Today

14) Rental yields in Rabat's student areas will rise as universities grow and draw more students

Rental yields in Rabat's student districts are set to rise as universities expand and draw in more students.

With 67,415 students enrolled at Mohammed V University in 2024, the demand for housing is naturally climbing. This surge in student numbers is a key driver for the rental market, as more students mean more need for nearby accommodations.

Adding to this, the development of new economic and technological zones like Technopolis near Rabat is attracting both Moroccan and international companies. This influx of businesses is creating a significant demand for housing, especially for young professionals and expatriates. Areas like Ain Aouda and Harhoura, close to these bustling zones, are seeing a spike in rental demand due to this economic boom.

Transportation improvements are also playing a role. The extension of the Rabat-Salé tramway and better highway networks are making previously overlooked areas more appealing to investors and homebuyers. This enhanced connectivity is a boon for rental yields in student districts, as easier access often boosts real estate demand and value.

These factors combined suggest a promising outlook for property investors in Rabat's student districts. As universities grow and infrastructure improves, the rental market is poised for growth, offering potential for higher returns.

Sources: Housing Place, EduRank

infographics comparison property prices Rabat-Salé

We made this infographic to show you how property prices in Morocco compare to other big cities across the region. It breaks down the average price per square meter in city centers, so you can see how cities stack up. It’s an easy way to spot where you might get the best value for your money. We hope you like it.

15) Rental yields in Salé will stay stable due to ongoing demand from local families

Salé's rental market is thriving thanks to its transformation into a modern city.

Once struggling, Salé has seen a remarkable change with new infrastructure and smart city projects. These improvements have made life easier for residents, offering better access to amenities and jobs. As a result, rental yields have stayed stable over the years, attracting more interest from potential property buyers.

Salé's population is on the rise, part of a larger trend of urbanization in Morocco. More people are moving to cities, and Salé is no exception. This shift has led to increased demand for rental homes, especially among local families looking for affordable options. This demand helps keep rental yields steady, making it a reliable market for investors.

Morocco's economy has been growing steadily, which is good news for Salé. With a strong GDP per capita, the country offers a stable economic environment. This stability means consistent rental demand in Salé, as families are drawn to the job opportunities in the area, like those in the technopark and marina.

Local families are a key part of Salé's rental market. They are looking for decent housing options, and Salé provides just that. This focus on local demand ensures that rental yields remain stable, making it a safe bet for property investors.

Salé's transformation and economic stability make it an attractive place for property investment. With ongoing demand from local families and a growing population, the rental market is set to remain strong for the foreseeable future.

Sources: Policy Center, Wikipedia

16) Demand for senior-friendly housing in Rabat will grow as the population ages

Rabat is seeing a noticeable rise in its elderly population.

By 2024, Morocco had nearly 5 million people aged 60 and over, up from 3.2 million in 2014. This means more folks will need homes that fit their needs as they age. With life expectancy hitting 77 years in 2023, people are living longer and will need homes that can adapt to their changing needs.

Think about features like easier accessibility and safety measures that are crucial for seniors. The demand for senior housing is on the rise, with a 40% increase in absorption rates in early 2024 compared to the previous year. This shows that more seniors are looking for homes that cater to their lifestyle and health needs.

The real estate market is catching on, shifting towards more accessible and adaptable homes. This trend is particularly noticeable in Rabat, where the aging population is driving the need for senior-friendly housing options. Developers are now focusing on creating spaces that are not just homes but also communities where seniors can thrive.

In Rabat, the focus is on making homes that are not only safe but also comfortable and welcoming for seniors. This includes everything from wider doorways to non-slip floors and even community spaces where seniors can socialize and stay active. The goal is to create environments where seniors can live independently yet have access to the support they need.

Sources: Human Capital Development at the Heart of Morocco's Slowing Population Growth, Life expectancy in Morocco reaches a new high of 77 years, Senior Housing Industry Forecast: What to Expect in 2025 and Beyond

While this article provides thoughtful analysis and insights based on credible and carefully selected sources, it is not, and should never be considered, financial advice. We put significant effort into researching, aggregating, and analyzing data to present you with an informed perspective. However, every analysis reflects subjective choices, such as the selection of sources and methodologies, and no single piece can encompass the full complexity of the market. Always conduct your own research, seek professional advice, and make decisions based on your own judgment. Any financial risks or losses remain your responsibility.