Facts checked on October 18, 2026
Marrakech at a glance
The medina of Marrakech was founded around 1070 by the Almoravids and has been a UNESCO World Heritage site since 1985. Modern districts later grew around the old city, each with its own type of housing.
So the first choice for a buyer is: the old city, a modern district, or the outskirts with more space.
Gueliz, Hivernage and Agdal: apartments in the city
These districts mainly offer apartments, both resale and new-build in secured residences with pools.
- Gueliz: the modern district west of the medina, laid out during the protectorate, with wide avenues and buildings of up to about ten storeys. Shops and restaurants within walking distance.
- Hivernage: first planned as a winter resort, now a district of large hotels, clubs and the upper segment.
- Agdal: south of the medina, named after the historic Agdal gardens, with newer residences along Avenue Mohammed VI.
The Palmeraie and golf areas: villas and space
The Palmeraie lies north-east of the medina, about 3 km from Jemaa el Fna square. It is green and sparsely built, with over 100,000 palm trees, villas, hotels and golf courses.
Several 18-hole courses lie on the edge of the city, such as Royal Palm, Al Maaden and The Montgomerie on Avenue Mohammed VI. Apartments and villas have been built around some of them. You will rely more on a car there.
Buying a riad in the medina
A riad is a traditional house built around a courtyard, usually in the narrow pedestrian alleys of the medina. Many older properties have no titre foncier but a melkia, which can be contested and is not accepted as mortgage security.
After the earthquake of 8 September 2023, technical commissions assessed buildings in Marrakech, and demolition orders followed. For a riad, ask about that assessment and have the structure surveyed.
In my conversations I say honestly that a riad can be a beautiful home, but without a titre foncier I would rather say no.
What to check when buying in Marrakech
Off-plan purchases fall under the VEFA rules, with legal payment stages and a guarantee. Every purchase needs a deed by a notary, adoul or approved lawyer.
- Request a certificat de propriété from the ANCFCC (100 DH): owners, mortgages and seizures.
- Check the building and occupancy permits and, for a villa, the zoning of the land.
- Budget 4% registration duty for a built home and 5% for land, plus a 1.5% + 100 DH land registry fee.
- Since 1 January 2026 MREs can borrow up to 80% in dirhams.
- Pay in foreign currency and keep the proof for a later transfer back abroad.
Frequently asked questions
Can a foreigner buy a house in Marrakech?
Yes. Foreigners can buy and sell urban residential property in Morocco, including Marrakech. Only agricultural land outside urban areas is reserved for Moroccans.
Which area of Marrakech is best for buying an apartment?
Gueliz, Hivernage and Agdal have most of the apartments, often in new secured residences. The Palmeraie and golf areas lean more towards villas.
What should I check before buying a riad in Marrakech?
Check that the riad has a titre foncier rather than a melkia. Have the structure surveyed too, especially after the 2023 earthquake.
What taxes do I pay when buying property in Marrakech?
You pay 4% registration duty on a built home and a 1.5% + 100 DH land registry fee, plus the notary. For land the registration duty is 5%.
