Authored by the expert who managed and guided the team behind the Mauritania Property Pack
Everything you need to know before buying real estate is included in our Mauritania Property Pack
Are you considering investing in Mauritania's property market? Curious about the emerging trends that could shape your investment decisions by 2025? Want to know which areas are poised for growth and what factors are driving these changes?
We will lay down recent insights, ici no guesswork, we rely only on solid data.
Actually, we know this market inside and out. We keep tabs on it regularly, and all our discoveries are reflected in the most recent version of the Mauritania Property Pack
1) Atar will draw more investors as Adrar tourism recovers
Atar is becoming a hotspot for investors as tourism in the Adrar region bounces back.
In 2023 and 2024, tourist numbers in Mauritania have surged, reaching 97% of pre-pandemic levels. This rebound is a clear sign of growing interest in the area, which is likely to draw more investors eager to tap into the increasing flow of visitors. The Mauritanian government is also playing a part in this revival. Through initiatives like the “Agenda National de Transformation Numérique 2022-2025,” they aim to boost the tourism sector with digital transformation.
Charter flights to Atar are back, and promotional efforts are in full swing, reviving desert tourism in the Adrar region. This resurgence is making the area even more appealing to investors. Infrastructure is also getting a facelift. A planned 80km asphalt road from Atar to Chinguetti will improve connectivity, making it easier for tourists and investors to access the region.
Positive reviews and travel blogs are shining a spotlight on Atar and the Adrar region, highlighting its unique attractions. This buzz is crucial in drawing attention and investment. The region's charm is not just in its landscapes but also in its cultural richness, which is increasingly being recognized by travelers and investors alike.
With these developments, Atar is poised to become a key player in Mauritania's tourism landscape. The combination of government support, improved infrastructure, and growing tourist interest is creating a fertile ground for investment. Investors looking for opportunities in emerging markets should keep an eye on Atar as it continues to evolve.
Sources: Wikipedia, Tourism Annual Report, BMZ Digital, Construct Africa
2) Rosso property values will rise due to better cross-border trade with Senegal
Rosso, near the Senegal River, is seeing a rise in property values thanks to booming cross-border trade with Senegal.
Trade between Senegal and Mauritania is thriving, with Senegal exporting $95.01 million worth of goods to Mauritania in 2022. This includes essentials like iron, steel, and oils, fueling Rosso's economic growth as businesses jump on these opportunities.
Infrastructure is a game-changer here. With the transport sector in Mauritania expected to grow, reaching a GDP of MRU 17.3 billion by 2025, new roads and bridges are making trade smoother. This efficiency is drawing businesses and investors to Rosso.
Government efforts, such as the Emerging Senegal Plan, are breaking down trade barriers and boosting economic activity. This has led to a surge in demand for commercial properties in Rosso, as businesses look to expand.
Logistics and warehousing investments are also key, providing the backbone for storing and distributing goods. This has further energized the local real estate market, with businesses expanding their footprint in Rosso.
Local reports consistently show rising property prices in Rosso, driven by economic activity and a growing population. This demographic shift is creating a vibrant real estate market.
Media coverage is painting Rosso as a trade hotspot, attracting more businesses and investors. Local business testimonials highlight the positive impact of cross-border trade on property values, making Rosso a promising investment.
Sources: Senegal Exports to Mauritania, Mauritania's Trade Profile, Islamic Republic of Mauritania: Poverty Reduction and Growth, Foreign Trade Figures of Senegal
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3) Foreign buyers will flock to coastal properties for their tourism potential
Foreign buyers are showing increased interest in Mauritania's coastal properties thanks to a surge in international tourism.
In March 2024, international tourist arrivals in Mauritania jumped by 14% compared to the previous year, with 750,968 tourists exploring the country. This uptick highlights a growing fascination with Mauritania's coastal attractions, drawing more eyes to its potential.
Significant investments are being made in coastal infrastructure, making these areas even more appealing. For instance, a public-private company is working on projects like reinforcing dunes and creating pedestrian paths along Nouakchott’s coastline. These enhancements not only beautify the environment but also spark new economic activities, enticing both tourists and investors.
The Mauritanian government is actively promoting tourism in these regions. By focusing on fiscal sustainability and infrastructure development, they are setting the stage for a booming tourism industry. This includes risk-informed urban planning and integrated water resources management, essential for sustainable coastal tourism.
With these efforts, Mauritania is becoming a hotspot for those looking to invest in coastal properties. The combination of increased tourist interest and improved infrastructure is creating a perfect storm for real estate opportunities.
Foreign buyers are likely to find the coastal areas particularly attractive due to their tourism potential and ongoing development projects. As more people discover the beauty of Mauritania's coast, the demand for property is expected to rise.
Sources: Statistics South Africa, Meridiam, World Bank, UNWTO
4) Foreign investors target properties near economic hubs like ports and mining areas
Foreign investors are eyeing properties near Mauritania's economic hubs, like ports and mining areas.
In recent years, Mauritania has seen a surge in foreign direct investment, especially in mining. Big names like Kinross Gold and First Quantum Minerals are pouring money into gold and copper projects, making these areas a hot spot for investment.
The government is also stepping up its game by developing infrastructure around these hubs. Take the deep-water port in Nouadhibou, for instance. It's part of a strategic plan to turn the area into a multi-purpose service platform, which is set to boost regional growth and attract more investors.
Then there's the Grand Tortue Ahmeyim project, a massive natural gas venture along the Mauritania-Senegal border. With about $5 billion invested over six years, it's clear that international players are keen on resource extraction and export, underscoring the value of these economic hubs.
Properties near these bustling areas are becoming increasingly attractive. The combination of foreign investment and government-backed infrastructure projects is creating a perfect storm for growth, making these locations prime real estate.
For those looking to invest, focusing on areas near these economic centers could be a smart move. The ongoing development and international interest suggest that these properties will continue to gain value.
Sources: Trade.gov, World Bank, Lloyds Bank Trade
5) Nouadhibou will attract more investors because of its booming fishing industry and expanding port
Nouadhibou is catching the eye of investors, and it's easy to see why.
The city is poised for growth thanks to its booming fishing industry. While Mauritania's waters produce a hefty 1.2 million tons of fish each year, only a small portion is processed locally. This gap is a golden opportunity for expanding fish processing, which could lead to more exports and job creation.
On top of that, the government is pouring resources into upgrading the port infrastructure. A massive $323 million project is underway to develop a deepwater port, aiming to boost trade with big markets like Europe and America. This upgrade is set to make the port more competitive and could draw in industries like tuna canning.
Nouadhibou's port is already bustling with activity, with numerous ships coming and going. This lively scene signals the region's potential for growth in logistics and trade. The government sweetens the deal by offering incentives for investment in coastal areas, making Nouadhibou even more appealing for business ventures.
Investors are also eyeing the expansion of related industries around the port. With the fishing industry on the rise, there's a ripple effect that could benefit sectors like packaging and transportation.
Nouadhibou's strategic location and government support make it a prime spot for future development. The city's transformation is not just a possibility; it's already in motion.
Sources: UNCTAD, Energy Capital & Power, Maritime Optima
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6) Mining towns will have stable rents with potential increases if mining activities grow
Mining towns in Mauritania are seeing stable rents, with potential for increases if mining activities expand.
Thanks to a boost in mining output and ongoing investments, these towns are buzzing with activity. For example, in September 2024, mining production in Mauritania rose by 3.10% compared to the previous year. The Tasiast Gold Mine also hit a milestone in 2023, with a 15% increase in gold production from the year before.
The government is pushing for more iron ore production, aiming for 45 million metric tons by 2030. This ambitious target means more infrastructure and logistics investments, which could lead to more jobs and attract more people to these towns. As more folks move in, the demand for housing is likely to rise, potentially driving up rents.
Globally, the appetite for minerals like iron ore, copper, and gold is expected to stay strong. This is largely due to the push for clean energy and decarbonization, which keeps the mining sector thriving. This growth not only boosts the local economy but also helps stabilize or even increase rents in these areas.
For those considering buying property in these towns, it's worth noting that the mining sector's growth is a key factor in the local real estate market. As mining activities continue to expand, the potential for rent increases becomes more likely.
So, if you're eyeing a property in a Mauritanian mining town, keep an eye on the mining sector's progress. The ongoing developments could mean a promising future for property investments in these areas.
Sources: Trading Economics, IntelliNews, EITI
7) Rental yields in mining towns will fluctuate with the mining industry's performance
In Mauritania, rental yields in mining towns fluctuate based on the mining industry's ups and downs.
When global prices for commodities like iron ore and gold are high, mining companies thrive, and this prosperity spills over into the real estate market. More profits mean more demand for housing and commercial spaces, which naturally pushes rental yields up. But when those prices dip, companies might cut back, leading to less demand and lower rental yields.
Take 2013, for instance. Mauritania's iron ore production was booming, and this boom translated into higher real estate values and bustling economic activity. The job market in these towns is closely linked to mining operations. When mines are active, they create jobs, drawing people in and boosting the need for housing, which in turn affects rental yields.
Changes in the mining sector, like new projects or closures, can shake things up significantly. New projects aiming to diversify beyond iron ore and gold could mean more economic activity and higher rental yields. On the flip side, if a major mine shuts down, it could lead to job losses and a drop in housing demand, pulling rental yields down.
Real estate trends in these areas are tightly connected to mining performance. In urban spots like Nouakchott, when mining is bustling, there's a noticeable uptick in demand for housing and commercial spaces. This demand is a direct reflection of the mining sector's health.
Sources: Energy Capital & Power, IntelliNews
8) Rural rental yields will drop as people move to cities
In Mauritania, more people are moving from rural areas to cities.
Back in 2023, the rural population had already dropped to 42.3% of the total population, showing a clear trend towards urban living. This shift is largely due to a high urbanization rate of about 3.84% annually from 2020 to 2025. People are leaving the countryside, drawn by the promise of better opportunities in the cities.
One major factor driving this migration is the loss of livelihoods in rural areas. Environmental challenges, like droughts, are making it tough for people to sustain their way of life. As a result, many are heading to urban centers in search of better job prospects and living conditions.
With more people moving to cities, the demand for rental properties in rural areas is naturally declining. This trend is expected to continue, as urban centers offer more amenities and opportunities compared to rural regions.
For potential property buyers, this means that rural areas might see a decline in rental yields. The shift in population dynamics is reshaping the real estate landscape, making urban properties more attractive for investment.
Sources: Trading Economics, Migrants & Refugees, Trading Economics
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9) Rural rents will drop as people flock to cities
In Mauritania, urban areas are growing rapidly as more people move to cities.
In 2023, the urban population growth rate hit 4.3206%, highlighting a significant shift towards city living. This trend shows that people are leaving rural areas, drawn by the promise of better opportunities in urban centers.
From 2016 to 2017, the rural population percentage dropped from 39.554% to 38.983%, indicating a steady migration away from the countryside. The IMF notes that cities are becoming more appealing due to improved infrastructure and economic prospects.
The FAO report suggests that while population growth could be beneficial, lack of economic opportunities in rural areas is pushing people towards urban centers. This shift is evident in the struggles of rural landlords who find it hard to attract tenants, pointing to a decline in rural populations.
Media coverage and interviews with rural landlords reveal that depopulation is a growing concern in these areas. As more people flock to cities, rural communities face challenges in maintaining their populations.
For potential property buyers, this means that rents in rural areas may decline as urbanization continues to draw people away from the countryside.
Sources: Urban Population Growth, Rural Population Decline, Urbanization Pressure, Demographic Dividend
10) Urban migration will strain city housing markets in Mauritania
In Mauritania, urban migration is putting pressure on city housing markets.
With the urban population growing at an annual rate of 4.32% in 2023, cities are bustling with new arrivals. This trend shows no signs of slowing down, meaning more people are flocking to urban areas, and the demand for housing is skyrocketing. Nouakchott, the largest city, is a prime example, as it already houses over a quarter of the country's population.
As people continue to migrate to cities like Nouakchott and Nouadhibou, population density is on the rise. This influx is stretching the housing resources thin, making it harder for newcomers to find a place to live. The situation is particularly intense in Nouakchott, where the city's infrastructure is struggling to keep up with the rapid growth.
Economic hardships in rural areas are a major driver of this migration. Frequent droughts and the loss of traditional livelihoods push people to seek better opportunities in urban centers. This shift not only swells the urban population but also fuels the demand for housing in cities.
For those considering buying property in Mauritania, understanding these dynamics is crucial. The urban housing market is under pressure, and this could impact property availability and prices. As more people move to cities, the competition for housing intensifies, potentially driving up costs.
Investors and potential homeowners should keep an eye on these trends. The ongoing migration from rural to urban areas is reshaping the housing landscape, and staying informed can help navigate this evolving market.
Sources: Migrants & Refugees, Trading Economics, Worldometers
11) Eco-friendly homes are becoming more popular as environmental awareness grows
Eco-friendly homes are gaining popularity as more people become aware of environmental issues.
In recent years, especially in places like Mauritania, there's been a noticeable increase in the construction of these homes. Companies such as Karmod are leading the way by building energy-efficient and comfortable prefab sustainable homes. These homes are not just a trend; they represent a shift towards more responsible living.
The demand for sustainable building materials is also on the rise. From 2024 to 2030, the market is expected to grow significantly, driven by the use of eco-friendly materials like wood, recycled plastic, bamboo, and ferrock. These materials are popular because they reduce the environmental impact of construction, making them a smart choice for new homes.
People's preferences are changing too. A 2024 survey by the National Association of REALTORS revealed that nearly half of the clients were interested in environmentally friendly housing. This shift reflects a broader societal trend towards eco-conscious living, which is further supported by media coverage highlighting benefits like lower energy bills and reduced environmental impact.
As environmental awareness grows, the appeal of eco-friendly homes is likely to increase. This trend is not just about saving money; it's about making a positive impact on the planet. With more people looking for sustainable options, the real estate market is adapting to meet these new demands.
Sources: Karmod, National Association of REALTORS, 6Wresearch
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12) Zouerate's property demand will soar as mining expands and draws more workers
The mining town of Zouerate is gearing up for a property demand boom as mining activities expand and more workers move in.
In 2023, SNIM kicked off several big projects in Zouerate, like the F'Dérick mine, which plans to churn out two million tonnes of iron ore annually. This move is set to boost SNIM's market position and draw in a larger workforce.
To keep up with this growth, Zouerate's infrastructure is getting a makeover. The town saw the inauguration of an extended road network in November 2023, alongside a new 30 MW thermal power plant. These upgrades are vital for handling the uptick in population and economic activity.
Mining towns often see a spike in property demand when mining ramps up, and Zouerate is no exception. This pattern is common in mining towns worldwide, and Zouerate is poised to follow this trend. The town is also investing in local amenities, like the expansion of the brackish water desalination plant, which will enhance living conditions and attract newcomers.
With these developments, Zouerate is becoming more appealing to potential residents. The combination of job opportunities and improved infrastructure is a strong pull for those considering a move. The town's efforts to upgrade its facilities are making it a more attractive place to live.
As mining activities continue to grow, Zouerate is set to become a bustling hub. The influx of workers and the expansion of local services are creating a vibrant community, ready to welcome new residents.
Sources: SNIM, SNIM Report, DWS
13) Kaédi property demand will rise as regional agricultural projects expand
Kaédi is becoming a hotspot for agricultural development in Mauritania.
Thanks to a boost in agricultural infrastructure, like the $767,000 investment from the African Development Bank, the region is seeing significant growth. This funding is crucial for building infrastructure near Kaédi, which is essential for expanding agricultural activities. The town is buzzing with potential as these projects take off.
Government initiatives are also stepping up. Programs like the Inclusive Livestock Sector Development Project (AWKAR) and the National Agricultural Development Plan are working to enhance agropastoral resources in the area. These efforts are tackling the challenges faced by the agricultural sector, making Kaédi a more attractive place for investment and development.
As these agricultural projects grow, they’re creating more job opportunities. With livestock farming being a major income source for many, the increase in agricultural jobs is drawing more workers to Kaédi. Naturally, this influx of people means a higher demand for housing as new residents look for places to live.
Improved transportation links are also playing a role in the rising property demand. The construction of feeder roads around Kaédi is enhancing connectivity, making it easier for goods and people to move. This better accessibility supports agricultural logistics and makes the area more appealing for both living and investment.
Sources: GAFSP Fund, African Development Bank
This article gives you valuable insights, but remember, it’s not and will never be investment advice. We pull data from a range of sources to provide you with the most accurate picture possible, yet we can’t guarantee complete accuracy. Markets are difficult to predict. Make sure to do your own research and consult a professional before making any financial moves. Any risks or losses are your own responsibility.