How to invest in property in Nouakchott?

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

Yes, the analysis of Nouakchott's property market is included in our pack

Who is the author of this content?

THE AFRICANVESTOR

A team specialized in real estate investing in African countries

We are a team of financial experts, legal professionals, developers, and local real estate specialists dedicated to helping people like you avoid mistakes when investing in real estate in a foreign place, particularly in Nouakchott. If you'd like to learn more about us, you can check our presentation page.

How this content was created 🔎📝

At TheAfricanVestor, we explore the Mauritanian 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 in cities like Nouakchott and Nouadhibou. This hands-on approach allows us to gain a deep understanding of the market from the inside out.

These observations are originally based on what we've learned through these conversations and our observations. But it was not enough. To back them up, we also needed to rely on trusted resources

We prioritize accuracy and authority. Trends lacking solid data or expert validation were excluded.

Trustworthiness is central to our work. Every source and citation is clearly listed, ensuring transparency. A writing AI-powered tool was used solely to refine readability and engagement.

To make the information accessible, our team designed custom infographics that clarify key points. We hope you will like them! All illustrations and media were created in-house and added manually.

Is it actually possible and straightforward for a foreigner to buy property in Nouakchott compared to western countries?

Foreign property ownership in Nouakchott is possible but operates under a different structure than Western countries.

Foreigners can legally purchase buildings in Nouakchott, but only through 99-year leasehold arrangements rather than outright land ownership. This means you own the structure and have long-term rights to use the land, but the government retains ultimate ownership of the land itself.

The process is more complex than typical Western property transactions, requiring government approval and specific documentation. However, it can be completed entirely remotely with proper legal representation, making it accessible to international buyers. As of September 2025, this system has proven reliable for foreign investors who follow proper procedures.

The main difference from Western markets is the leasehold structure and the need for government approval at each transaction stage. While this adds bureaucratic steps, it provides a clear legal framework for foreign property investment in Mauritania's capital city.

It's something we develop in our Mauritania property pack.

What are the exact legal steps, from start to finish, to purchase property there?

Step	Process	Timeline
1. Property Search	Identify suitable property in Nouakchott or Nouadhibou	Varies
2. Due Diligence	Lawyer checks titles and encumbrances via Land Registry	1-2 weeks
3. Negotiation	Agree on terms and sign preliminary contract	1 week
4. Notarization	Public notary certifies the contract	1-2 weeks
5. Government Approval	Authorities approve foreigner's purchase	1-2 weeks
6. Fund Transfer	Payment via official bank transfer	1-3 days
7. Registration	Documents submitted to Land Registry	1-2 weeks
8. Title Receipt	Receive updated leasehold certificate	1 week

Which documents are mandatory to complete the process, and which ones are optional?

The Nouakchott property purchase process requires eight mandatory documents and several optional ones depending on your situation.

Mandatory documents include your passport or identity card, a power of attorney if purchasing remotely, and the signed sale and purchase contract. You'll also need the current title deed or leasehold certificate, deed of transfer, proof of funds with recent bank statements, Land Registry certificate with affidavit of non-encumbrance, and current property tax receipts.

Optional documents depend on your specific circumstances. Foreign documents require apostille certification and translation to Arabic or French. New construction purchases need technical documents like location plans and architectural drawings. New developments require permits and developer compliance documentation to verify legal construction.

All documents must be authentic and properly certified. Foreign buyers should prepare for translation costs and authentication processes, which can add 1-2 weeks to the timeline if not prepared in advance.

Can you buy property without physically being in Mauritania, or is presence required at some stages?

You can complete the entire Nouakchott property purchase process without physical presence in Mauritania.

The key requirement is appointing a trusted lawyer with power of attorney to act on your behalf. This lawyer handles all legal steps, negotiation phases, and registration processes remotely. The power of attorney document must be properly notarized and may require apostille certification depending on your country of origin.

Remote purchasing covers every stage from initial property search to final title receipt. Your appointed lawyer coordinates with real estate agents, conducts due diligence, manages contract negotiations, oversees notarization, secures government approvals, facilitates fund transfers, handles Land Registry submissions, and receives your final leasehold certificate.

This remote process has become standard practice for foreign buyers, with established procedures ensuring secure transactions. The main consideration is selecting a reputable lawyer with experience in foreign property transactions and maintaining clear communication throughout the process.

What types of properties can foreigners legally buy, and what are the restrictions if any?

Foreigners can purchase buildings including houses, apartments, and commercial units under 99-year leasehold arrangements, but direct land ownership is prohibited.

Eligible property types include residential homes, condominiums, apartments, commercial buildings, office spaces, and mixed-use developments. All properties must be registered and compliant with local building regulations. There are no restrictions on purchasing residential versus commercial properties, allowing foreign investors to diversify their portfolios.

The main restriction is the leasehold structure rather than freehold ownership. This 99-year lease provides substantial long-term security while maintaining government land ownership. Properties must be located in areas where foreign investment is permitted, which includes most of Nouakchott and major urban centers like Nouadhibou.

Foreign buyers commonly choose modern condos in Nouakchott's developed neighborhoods, single-family homes in expat communities, or commercial premises in business districts. The leasehold system applies uniformly across all property types, ensuring consistent legal framework regardless of your investment choice.

Are real estate agents in Nouakchott generally reliable, and how should you choose one?

Real estate agent reliability in Nouakchott varies significantly, with many operating informally without proper credentials.

Choose agents with proven track records, preferably those recommended by expat communities, diplomatic missions, or international organizations. Request proof of recent successful foreign transactions and verify their government registration status. Reliable agents should provide references from previous foreign clients and demonstrate clear understanding of leasehold processes.

Essential selection criteria include government registration verification, experience with foreign buyers, positive references from expat networks, transparent fee structures, and willingness to work with your chosen lawyer. Avoid agents who pressure quick decisions, refuse to provide references, or suggest bypassing legal procedures.

Always cross-check agent credentials independently and consult your lawyer before hiring any agent. The best agents understand foreign buyer needs, maintain relationships with reputable lawyers and notaries, and provide clear communication throughout the process.

It's something we develop in our Mauritania property pack.

Will the Mauritanian legal system protect a foreign buyer in case of disputes?

Mauritania offers a basic legal framework protecting foreign property buyers, though enforcement can be inconsistent compared to Western legal systems.

The government handles property registration through established Land Registry systems, and disputes are resolved through civil courts. Foreign buyers have the same legal rights as domestic buyers within the leasehold framework. However, the judicial system may move slowly, and outcomes can vary depending on case complexity and legal representation quality.

Protection is significantly enhanced by proper documentation and legal compliance. Hiring qualified lawyers, notarizing all documents, and following official procedures provides strong legal protection. The registration system creates clear ownership records that courts recognize and enforce.

Most successful foreign property owners report satisfactory legal protection when they follow proper procedures. The key is comprehensive due diligence, complete documentation, and working with experienced local legal professionals who understand both foreign buyer needs and Mauritanian legal requirements.

What are the classic mistakes and pitfalls that foreigners often make when investing there?

Foreign property buyers in Nouakchott commonly make five critical mistakes that can jeopardize their investments.

1. Skipping comprehensive due diligence and failing to verify clear title status through Land Registry checks2. Completing large cash transactions instead of using regulated bank transfers, creating security and compliance risks3. Choosing unreliable agents or attempting to proceed without qualified legal representation4. Accepting incomplete documentation or proceeding with unsigned or unnotarized contracts5. Not properly translating or authenticating foreign documents, causing registration delays or rejections

The most expensive mistake is rushing the process without proper verification. Some buyers lose deposits by paying before title verification, while others face legal complications from inadequate documentation. Working with unregistered agents or lawyers can result in fraud or incomplete transactions.

Cultural misunderstandings about business practices can also create problems. Foreign buyers who don't respect local procedures or attempt to circumvent official channels often encounter regulatory resistance. Success requires patience, proper preparation, and respect for established legal processes.

Prevention involves hiring qualified professionals, following all official procedures, maintaining detailed records, and never bypassing legal requirements to save time or money.

We did some research and made this infographic to help you quickly compare rental yields of the major cities in Mauritania 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.

What precautions should someone take before signing or transferring funds?

Take comprehensive precautions before any commitment to protect your investment and ensure legal compliance.

Conduct thorough due diligence by checking Land Registry records for claims, encumbrances, or ownership disputes. Verify the seller's legal authority to sell and confirm all property taxes are current. Have your lawyer review all contracts before signing and ensure complete documentation is prepared and authenticated.

Use only regulated banking channels for fund transfers, avoiding cash transactions entirely. Never transfer funds until your lawyer confirms all documents are authenticated, government approvals are secured, and notarization is complete. Establish an escrow account through your lawyer or notary to protect funds during the transaction process.

Additional precautions include obtaining property surveys, checking for outstanding debts or liens, verifying building permits and compliance, and confirming utility connections and legal access rights. Document every step with receipts and official confirmations.

The golden rule is never sign contracts or transfer money until your legal representative provides written confirmation that all procedures are properly completed and your ownership rights are secure.

How long does the whole purchase process usually take from start to finish?

The complete property purchase process in Nouakchott typically takes 1-3 months from initial property identification to final title receipt.

Once you've found a suitable property, the actual purchase process averages 4-8 weeks. This includes due diligence (1-2 weeks), contract negotiation (1 week), notarization (1-2 weeks), government approval (1-2 weeks), fund transfer (1-3 days), registration (1-2 weeks), and title receipt (1 week).

Timeline variations depend on several factors including document preparation completeness, government approval processing speed, complexity of the property transaction, and efficiency of your legal representation. Simple residential purchases with prepared documentation move faster than complex commercial transactions or properties with title complications.

Foreign buyers can accelerate the process by preparing all required documents in advance, including apostille certifications and translations. Working with experienced lawyers and agents who understand foreign buyer requirements also reduces delays and ensures smooth processing through each stage.

What are all the taxes, fees, and costs involved in a property purchase, with a clear breakdown?

Cost Category	Percentage	Description
Notary Fees	2-5%	Contract certification and legal documentation
Registration Fees	1-2%	Land Registry submission and title processing
Legal Fees	1-3%	Lawyer services for due diligence and representation
Property Transfer Tax	1-3%	Government tax on ownership transfer
Translation/Apostille	0.5-1%	Document authentication and translation services
Government Approvals	0.5-1%	Processing fees for foreign buyer approval
Total Range	6-15%	Complete transaction costs as percentage of property value

Can you pay cash directly, or is mortgage financing available to foreigners, and if so what are the typical rates, conditions, and tips to get one?

Both cash payments and limited mortgage financing are available to foreign property buyers in Nouakchott.

Cash payments are legal and common, though bank transfers are strongly recommended over physical cash for security and compliance reasons. Most foreign buyers use international bank transfers from their home countries, which provides clear transaction records and regulatory compliance.

Local banks offer mortgage financing to foreigners with specific conditions. Maximum loan-to-value ratios reach 60% of property value, with interest rates ranging from 5.9% to 14.5% annually. Loan terms typically span 10-12 years, shorter than Western mortgage periods. Approval depends on demonstrated income, credit history, and sometimes residency status or local employment.

Tips for securing mortgage financing include establishing banking relationships in Mauritania, providing comprehensive income documentation, maintaining good credit records, and working with banks experienced in foreign lending. However, limited availability and strict requirements mean most foreign buyers choose cash purchases or financing from their home countries.

It's something we develop in our Mauritania property pack.

Does buying property give you any path toward residency or citizenship in Mauritania?

Property ownership in Nouakchott does not automatically grant residency rights or citizenship in Mauritania.

Foreign property buyers must follow standard immigration procedures for obtaining residency permits or citizenship applications. Property ownership may support residency applications by demonstrating ties to the country and financial stability, but it does not create automatic eligibility or expedited processing.

Residency permits require separate applications through immigration authorities, typically involving proof of income, health certificates, background checks, and other standard immigration requirements. Property ownership documentation can supplement these applications but does not replace required immigration procedures.

Some foreign property owners obtain residency through other means such as employment, investment visas, or family connections, then purchase property as residents. However, the property purchase itself does not change your immigration status or create legal pathways to residency or citizenship in Mauritania as of September 2025.

Where do foreigners usually buy property in Nouakchott, and why those areas?

Foreign property buyers concentrate in Nouakchott and Nouadhibou, with Nouakchott being the preferred choice for most international investors.

Nouakchott attracts foreign buyers due to its status as the capital city, offering superior infrastructure, modern amenities, proximity to embassies and consulates, international schools, healthcare facilities, and established expat communities. The city provides better security, reliable utilities, and business opportunities compared to other areas.

Within Nouakchott, foreigners prefer neighborhoods with established expat presence, newer developments with modern facilities, areas near international schools and diplomatic missions, and locations with reliable infrastructure including electricity, water, and internet connectivity. These areas typically offer better security and community support networks.

Nouadhibou serves as a secondary choice due to its port access, growing expat community, and commercial opportunities related to fishing and mining industries. The city attracts foreign buyers involved in these sectors or seeking more affordable property options while maintaining reasonable amenities and infrastructure.

Both cities offer the advantage of established legal frameworks for foreign property ownership, reliable government services for registration processes, and communities experienced in working with international buyers.

Conclusion

This article is for informational purposes only and should not be considered financial advice. Readers are advised to consult with a qualified professional before making any investment decisions. We do not assume any liability for actions taken based on the information provided.

Sources

1. TheAfricanVestor - Moving to Mauritania: Buy Property
2. TheAfricanVestor - Mauritania Real Estate for Foreigners
3. UK Government - Living in Mauritania
4. Lawzana - Real Estate Contracts Mauritania
5. Mauritania Embassy - Investment Procedures
6. UNCTAD - Investment Laws Mauritania
7. Mauritania Embassy US - Investment Opportunities