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As we reach mid-2025, Mauritania's property market is experiencing steady growth driven by urbanization and mining expansion.
The residential real estate sector in Nouakchott has seen a 5% price increase in 2024, with urban property resale values growing by 8%, signaling continued momentum for investors and homebuyers alike.If you want to go deeper, you can check our pack of documents related to the real estate market in Mauritania, based on reliable facts and data, not opinions or rumors.
Property prices in Mauritania are going up modestly in 2025, with urban areas experiencing 2-4% annual growth driven by rapid urbanization, mining sector expansion, and infrastructure development.
Nouakchott and Nouadhibou lead the price increases, while apartments and urban land see the steepest appreciation due to scarcity and rising demand from professionals and expatriates.
Metric | 2024 | 2025 Forecast |
---|---|---|
Nouakchott Price Growth | +5% | +2-4% |
Urban Resale Values | +8% | +3-4% |
Price per sqm (City Center) | 135,647 MRU | 138,360-141,073 MRU |
Mortgage Rate | 16.37% | 16-17% |
Homeownership Rate | 45% | 45-46% |
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.

What are the current property prices in Mauritania as of June 2025?
Property prices in Mauritania show significant variation between urban and rural areas, with Nouakchott commanding the highest rates.
In the capital city's center, property prices average 135,647 MRU per square meter (approximately $3,427 USD), while areas outside the city center offer more affordable options at 45,807 MRU per square meter ($1,157 USD). The price-to-income ratio stands at 14.96, indicating considerable affordability challenges for local buyers.
The rental market reflects similar patterns, with a 1-bedroom apartment in Nouakchott's city center costing around 7,200 MRU per month ($182 USD), while the same property outside the center rents for 5,500 MRU ($139 USD). For larger families, 3-bedroom apartments in prime locations command 23,882 MRU monthly ($603 USD).
These prices position Mauritania's urban centers as relatively expensive compared to regional standards, particularly when considering local income levels. The high mortgage rates of 16.37% further compound affordability issues for prospective homeowners.
As of June 2025, the market continues to favor urban properties, with demand consistently outpacing supply in key cities like Nouakchott and Nouadhibou.
How much have property prices increased in Mauritania lately?
Recent data shows Mauritania's property market has experienced notable growth throughout 2024 and into 2025.
Nouakchott's average property prices increased by 5% in 2024 compared to the previous year, while urban property resale values across the country grew by an impressive 8%. This growth has been driven by rapid urbanization, with the urban population rate reaching 54.6% in 2024.
Building material costs contributed to price pressures, rising 7% in 2024 due to global supply chain issues and local economic factors. This increase directly impacted new construction costs and subsequently pushed up overall property values.
Looking at the longer-term trend, nominal residential house prices in Mauritania have increased by 41.4% over the past decade, demonstrating sustained appreciation despite periodic fluctuations. The period from 2019 to 2024 saw particularly strong growth, with annual increases ranging between 5-8% in key urban areas.
Mining sector expansion has played a crucial role in recent price increases, particularly in towns like Zouerate and areas around Nouadhibou, where mining activities have created job opportunities and increased housing demand.
What are the property price forecasts for Mauritania in 2026?
Property price forecasts for 2026 suggest continued but moderate growth in Mauritania's real estate market.
Experts predict annual price increases of 2-4% for urban properties, with cities like Nouakchott and Nouadhibou likely to see growth at the higher end of this range. This modest appreciation reflects a stabilization after the more rapid increases seen in 2024.
The ongoing urbanization trend, with projections showing the urban population will reach 68.8% by 2043, provides fundamental support for sustained demand. Infrastructure projects currently underway, including road improvements and utility expansions under the Moudoun Project, are expected to enhance property values in targeted areas.
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However, several factors could moderate price growth, including high mortgage rates that limit purchasing power, global economic uncertainties affecting commodity prices, and potential political changes that might impact investor confidence.
Mining towns are expected to see varied performance based on commodity prices, with properties in areas focused on gold and iron ore likely to benefit from continued global demand for these resources.
Which areas in Mauritania are seeing the highest property price increases?
Urban centers are experiencing the most significant property price appreciation in Mauritania.
Nouakchott leads the market, with prime districts like Tevragh Zeina and Ksar seeing exceptional demand. These neighborhoods attract professionals and expatriates seeking modern amenities and secure environments, driving prices up faster than the city average.
Nouadhibou, benefiting from port expansion projects and its strategic location, has emerged as another hot spot. The Nouadhibou Deepwater Port Development, initiated in 2022, is transforming the city's economic landscape and pushing property values higher.
Area | Price Increase Trend | Key Drivers |
---|---|---|
Tevragh Zeina (Nouakchott) | High (6-8% annually) | Prime location, modern amenities, expatriate demand |
Nouadhibou City Center | High (5-7% annually) | Port expansion, commercial growth, FDI inflows |
Ksar (Nouakchott) | Moderate-High (4-6% annually) | Youthful demographics, improving infrastructure |
Arafat (Nouakchott) | Moderate (3-5% annually) | Mixed residential-commercial development |
Dar Naim (Nouakchott) | Moderate (3-4% annually) | Affordable prices, government development projects |
Rosso | Moderate (3-4% annually) | Border trade, transport sector growth |
Mining Towns (Zouerate) | Variable (2-5% annually) | Mining sector performance, commodity prices |
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What types of properties are experiencing the biggest price surges?
City-center apartments are leading the price surge in Mauritania's property market.
Modern apartments in desirable districts of Nouakchott, particularly those with contemporary amenities and security features, have seen the steepest price increases. The scarcity of quality housing stock combined with rising demand from young professionals and expatriates has created a competitive market environment.
Urban land plots represent another category experiencing significant appreciation. The limited availability of developable land in prime urban locations has driven prices up substantially, with investors competing for parcels suitable for residential and mixed-use developments.
Luxury villas in neighborhoods like Tevragh Zeina are also appreciating rapidly, driven by demand from affluent buyers including foreign investors and successful local entrepreneurs. These properties often feature modern designs, private security, and proximity to international schools and business districts.
Commercial properties in strategic locations, particularly those near ports, mining operations, or major transport routes, have seen notable value increases as Mauritania's economy expands.
In contrast, rural properties and traditional housing without modern amenities have experienced minimal price growth, reflecting the ongoing urbanization trend and changing lifestyle preferences.
How has Mauritania's mining boom affected property prices in 2025?
The mining sector expansion has significantly impacted property markets across Mauritania in 2025.
Mining production increased by 3.10% in September 2024 compared to the previous year, with the Tasiast Gold Mine achieving a 15% boost in gold production. This growth has created ripple effects throughout the real estate market, particularly in mining towns and supporting urban centers.
In cities like Nouakchott and Nouadhibou, the influx of mining professionals and support staff has increased demand for quality housing. Expatriate workers in the mining sector typically seek modern apartments and villas, pushing up prices in premium residential areas.
Mining towns themselves are experiencing stable to rising rental rates, with potential for further increases as operations expand. The development of new mining projects focusing on diversification beyond iron ore and gold promises continued economic activity and housing demand.
Infrastructure investments linked to mining operations, including improved roads and logistics facilities, have enhanced property values in previously underserved areas. The transport sector's projected growth to MRU 17.3 billion by 2025 directly supports real estate appreciation along key corridors.
However, property markets in mining regions remain sensitive to global commodity price fluctuations, creating some volatility in local real estate values.
What role does urbanization play in Mauritania's property price trends?
Urbanization stands as the primary driver of property price increases in Mauritania.
With 54.6% of the population living in cities as of 2024, and projections indicating this will reach 68.8% by 2043, the demand for urban housing continues to intensify. The annual urbanization rate of 3.84% from 2020 to 2025 represents one of the highest in the region.
Rural-to-urban migration is fueled by environmental challenges like droughts and desertification, which have made traditional rural livelihoods increasingly difficult to sustain. This has created a steady stream of new urban residents seeking housing, employment, and better living conditions.
The concentration of economic opportunities, educational institutions, and healthcare facilities in cities further accelerates urban migration. Young adults, particularly those in their early 30s, represent the largest demographic moving to cities, creating sustained demand for starter homes and rental properties.
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Government urban development initiatives, including infrastructure improvements and the creation of new residential zones, have attempted to manage this growth but struggle to keep pace with demand, contributing to price pressures.
The urbanization trend has also shifted investment patterns, with rural properties seeing declining interest while urban real estate attracts both local and foreign capital.

We made this infographic to show you how property prices in Mauritania 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.
How do Mauritania's property prices compare to neighboring countries?
Mauritania's property market presents an interesting value proposition compared to its neighbors.
When comparing city center property prices, Nouakchott's average of $3,427 per square meter exceeds Dakar, Senegal's $2,193, making Mauritanian urban property surprisingly expensive. However, rental rates tell a different story, with Nouakchott's 1-bedroom apartments costing $182-224 monthly compared to Dakar's $632-932.
This pricing paradox reflects Mauritania's unique market dynamics, where purchase prices are high relative to rental income, resulting in lower rental yields of 0.8-3.5%. The disparity is partly explained by the high mortgage rates of 16.37% in Mauritania versus 8.15% in Senegal, making property purchases less accessible.
Compared to Mali, Mauritania's urban property prices are generally higher, reflecting stronger demand in Nouakchott and better infrastructure development. However, current data for Mali is limited, making precise comparisons challenging.
For foreign investors, Mauritania offers relatively affordable entry points compared to North African markets like Morocco or Tunisia, while providing exposure to a rapidly growing economy driven by natural resources.
The market's attractiveness lies not in current valuations but in growth potential, with Mauritania's economic expansion and urbanization trends suggesting stronger appreciation prospects than some neighboring countries.
What impact are government policies having on property prices in 2025?
Government policies are actively shaping Mauritania's property market dynamics in 2025.
The implementation of new investment code reforms has created significant opportunities for real estate development. These reforms include free land allocation for qualifying projects, tax reductions for developers, and streamlined business registration processes that have reduced bureaucratic barriers.
Local content requirements for foreign investors have indirectly boosted the property market by ensuring that international projects employ Mauritanian workers, who then require housing. This has particularly impacted areas around major foreign investment projects.
- The Moudoun Project focusing on urban infrastructure development
- Tax incentives for affordable housing developers
- Simplified property registration procedures reducing transaction costs
- Investment promotion in mining regions with associated infrastructure
- Port expansion projects creating economic zones with residential components
However, the introduction of carbon taxes and reforms to state-owned enterprise taxation may increase development costs, potentially moderating price growth in some segments.
Political stability following the June 2024 presidential elections has maintained investor confidence, though ongoing challenges with affordable housing provision and high mortgage rates limit the policies' full impact on market accessibility.
Are foreign investors driving up property prices in Mauritania?
Foreign investment plays an increasingly important role in Mauritania's property price dynamics.
Foreign Direct Investment reached 7.9645% of GDP in 2023, with this trend continuing through 2025. Much of this investment flows into sectors like mining and energy, creating indirect demand for residential and commercial properties.
International mining companies and their employees have particularly influenced markets in Nouakchott's premium districts and Nouadhibou's developing areas. These expatriate workers typically seek high-quality housing with modern amenities, driving up prices in specific market segments.
Chinese, European, and Middle Eastern investors have shown growing interest in Mauritanian real estate, attracted by the country's strategic location, natural resources, and relatively low entry prices compared to other African markets. Their participation has introduced new development standards and architectural styles.
Government reforms aimed at attracting foreign investment, including the revised investment code with its incentives and protections, have made property acquisition more accessible to international buyers.
While foreign investment contributes to price increases in premium segments, its impact remains concentrated in specific areas and property types, with the broader market still driven primarily by local demand and urbanization trends.
What are the biggest risks to property price growth in Mauritania?
Several significant risks could impact property price growth in Mauritania's real estate market.
The country's heavy reliance on extractive industries makes property values vulnerable to global commodity price fluctuations. A significant downturn in iron ore or gold prices could reduce mining sector employment and investment, dampening housing demand in affected regions.
High mortgage rates of 16.37% severely limit local purchasing power, creating a ceiling on how much prices can rise before becoming completely unaffordable for the domestic market. This financing challenge restricts market depth and could lead to price stagnation.
Risk Factor | Potential Impact | Mitigation Strategies |
---|---|---|
Commodity Price Volatility | High - affects employment and investment | Economic diversification efforts underway |
Political Instability | Medium - could deter foreign investment | Recent peaceful elections improved stability |
Climate/Environmental Challenges | Medium - desertification affects habitability | Urban planning and infrastructure projects |
Limited Mortgage Access | High - restricts buyer pool | Government exploring financing reforms |
Infrastructure Constraints | Medium - limits developable areas | Major infrastructure projects ongoing |
Global Economic Downturn | High - reduces FDI and remittances | Strengthening regional trade ties |
Construction Cost Inflation | Medium - affects new supply | Local material production initiatives |
Conclusion
Yes, property prices in Mauritania are going up modestly in 2025, driven by sustained urbanization, mining sector growth, and improving infrastructure.
Urban areas, particularly Nouakchott and Nouadhibou, continue to see steady appreciation of 2-4% annually, while rural markets remain stagnant. The combination of rising urban population, foreign investment, and government development initiatives supports continued price growth, though high mortgage rates and economic vulnerabilities prevent more dramatic increases.
For investors and homebuyers, Mauritania's property market offers opportunities in a growing economy, but success requires careful selection of location and property type. Understanding local market dynamics and economic dependencies remains crucial for making informed decisions.
The fundamentals supporting price growth—urbanization, economic expansion, and infrastructure development—appear solid for the medium term, making property investment in key urban areas a potentially rewarding strategy for those who can navigate the market's unique challenges.
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.
Property prices in Mauritania are experiencing steady growth in 2025, particularly in urban centers where demand continues to outpace supply. The market benefits from strong economic fundamentals, including robust GDP growth projections and expanding foreign investment.
While challenges exist—notably high mortgage rates and dependence on commodity prices—the overall trajectory remains positive. Investors focusing on prime urban locations and modern property types are likely to see continued appreciation, making Mauritania an emerging market worth considering for those seeking growth opportunities in African real estate.
Sources
- Numbeo - Property Investment in Mauritania
- Living Cost - Mauritania vs Senegal Comparison
- My Life Elsewhere - Cost of Living Comparison
- The Africanvestor - Mauritania Real Estate Market Analysis
- The Africanvestor - Mauritania Price Forecasts
- Global Property Guide - Mauritania 10-Year Price Change
- The Africanvestor - Real Estate Forecasts
- African Business - Mauritania Investment Code Reform
- The Africanvestor - Property Investment Guide
- CAHF - Mauritania Housing Finance Overview