New opportunities in Morocco

Morocco’s emergence as a popular tourist destination is driving the creation of new properties across the country. According to the ‘Associated Press’, the north African nation is increasingly attracting highly sophisticated and fashionable visitors, becoming a focal point of activity for foreign property buyers and developers.

The news provider stated that many upmarket developments are being created in areas such as Marrakech, as this is one of the most popular locations.

Commenting on the city, it said: ''Marrakech is fast becoming a real estate hotspot thanks to its warm winters and priceless landscapes.'' The media outlet added that house prices in the city have appreciated very healthi;y in the last decade as a result of the extra interest from abroad.

The views, a Moroccan alternative to saturated Spain

Apart from the six Plan Azur seaside resorts, the Moroccan government has various other action plans, the move throughout the country, Tamuda Bay, one of them. This stretch of coast between Tetouanaise the city Fnideq just outside the Spanish enclave of Ceuta in the fishing town and beach resort M'diq is responsible for the 3.3bn Dirhams value of the investment (over 200 million pounds) to 5000 beds, two new 18 - Hole golf courses and upgrades to the existing three marinas. Details of residential property, such as mushrooms along Tamuda Bay and offers some tough competition in the saturated Spanish coast just a few kilometres on the Mediterranean.

Trevor Byrne, GEM Estates Moroccan experts commented: "The Moroccan government has the tactical move to give the coast an identity of synchronization is Tamuda Bay back in October 2006 and the clear intention is to create a very affordable alternative to the Spanish Costas. Golfer and yacht owners are a prime target and planners hope to secure a market share of the more established golf courses and marinas found in southern Spain and in fact along the French Riviera. Apart from the reliable climate, price is a driving factor with Tamuda Bay to undercut its rivals Residential Real Estate, a round of golf, moorings, yacht maintenance, cost of living and so on. The formula for success is spot-on. "

The site is such a place living less than 10km from the chic 450-berth Marina Smir the right to bear a similarity with their Spanish colleagues. Completed in 1992 by the Marina Group of Companies (a British company, established in 1982 has also the Marina Marbella) the plant can yachts up to 60m in length and styles itself as "port experience, just 10 miles from the road." Flanked by bars, boutiques and sand beaches, this is just one of the views strong selling point points, while the lovers of culture can in the old Medina of Tetouan, declared a heritage town of UNESCO or admire the unique blue rinsed old properties of Chauen, both reached on a short drive.

The site itself is part of Alcudia Smir Beach Resort, an exotic and popular location of the Morocco's unique character. An authentic Medina is located in the heart of the project with shops, cafes and restaurants and more than 30% of Alcudia Smir Beach Resort is in Andalusian style landscaping. Low-level and low-density, the gated development of the views is enviable position, within walking distance of a flat-rate sand beach and the on-site service. The residents can get a private lagoon-style pool and beautiful views of the Rif Mountains in one direction and Gibraltar and Spain mainland on the other side.

The 120 one, two and three bedroom apartments have European standard kitchens, walk-in closets, private terraces with far-reaching views, guarded parking and a guarantee ten years to build. Fusing contemporary and modern interiors have high ceilings and a true sense of space, while the adjacent five-star hotel opened more possibilities for leisure and pleasure. Open for holders of views, the hotel has a fitness center, business center, indoor and outdoor pools, spa, tennis courts and a conference centre.

Tangiers airport, less than an hour drive of the views of low-cost Royal Air Maroc subsidiary Atlas Blue, flies directly to London and several other European cities like Paris and Barcelona, and the 45-minute crossing from the southern tip of the ferry from mainland Spain is both efficient and regularly.

Prices in the views from 122027 euro and a two-year rental guarantee pitched at 5% is available as an option.

APM Terminals reports on developments in Morocco property

APM Terminals has assumed management and operational control of the container facility at the port Pecémin in the north-eastern Brazil, construction began in APM SP terminal in southern Vietnam, as well as APM Terminals Tangier takes delivery of its last three super post-Panamax cranes.

According to Etienne Roche, managing director of APM Terminals Tangier in Morocco property, indicators of the level at the port of Tangier-Med already compare with those of long-established, in full force terminals.

Import container activities started in February, and will increase significantly in coming months. Overloading of full containers, operation, which is crucial to the function of Tangier-Med-Port, has also seen rapid growth in volume. It is anticipated that one million TEU will be handled at the APM Terminals Tangier for the period from April 2008 to March 2009 - ahead of original projections when the subject is under development.

Air Arabia to open Morocco hub this year

Air Arabia budget carrier Air Arabia opens third centre in Morocco property in the later half of this year to join the European tracks, according to the airline's Chief Executive.

"We do not have the exact date yet, but we look at the operation, starting from our Moroccan knot sometime in the fourth quarter of this year. Overall, the challenge is to connect with Europe, North Africa and the Middle East more destinations across Morocco property, "Adel Ali, CEO of Air Arabia, reported Emirates Economy.

Sharjah-based carrier in January this year launched its second centre in Kathmandu, Nepal, in a joint venture with Yeti Airlines, the leader in domestic air travel in Nepal.

For its hub in Moroccon capital Rabat, which was originally scheduled Air Arabia ArabiaAir second hub, Air Arabia ArabiaAir already entered into a joint venture with Morocco's leading private carrier Regional Airlines and Bahrain-based investment bank, the Bank Ithmaar, According to Ali.

"Although I can not disclose its share in the joint venture, Air Arabia will be the main shareholder in the case and will have management control as well," he said.

"We originally were going to begin to Morocco to the center of Katmandu center, but as it turned out, Morocco, will be much more knots and thus it takes time.

"Establishment of the center in Kathmandu, on the other hand, was much faster process", added Ali.

In addition, the airline may be opening a fourth hub in the near future in order to begin flights to Morocco. "At present there is no firm plan, but if necessary we could look at the hub to fly to Morocco at a late stage. However, that was not a priority, as it is now. If at all, we can serve one or two points that would

Early fruit and vegetables exports grow 16% up to April

In world exports of early fruits and vegetables reached 60000 tons (MT) until April, which represents 16% growth compared with same period last year, a press release the Ministry of Agriculture and Fisheries announced on Tuesday.

Early fruit and vegetable production was 1.8Mn MT from the beginning of the current crop growing year, that is 13% increase over the same period last year and 29% increase compared to the average production over the past five years. Citrus fruit exports fell 5%, as only 488 000 million tons were exported.

Citrus fruits also growing after the downward course, as soon as 1.1 million tons were produced, which represents 14% drop compared with last year and 12% decrease compared with the last five years.

With regard to grain growing areas, the Ministry noted that autumn grain growing area has decreased by 11% compared to same period last year to stand at 5 million hectares.

900 000 of the total area devoted to the hard wheat, 1.9 million ha for wheat and 2.2 million hectares are for barley, according to which the Ministry expects that the decline in cereal production will stand at 50Mn quintals.

Dams for agricultural use of global opportunities filling in 6,4 billion square meters, compared with 7 billion sq. m. for a similar period last year, the ministry said.

Morocco takes part in the first US-Arab Urban Forum

North African country represented at this conference, held co-chaired by Chicago Mayor Richard M. Daley, Mayor Omar Maani in Amman, Jordan, and Mayor Mohamed Sajid Casablanca, for mayor Chefchaoun (north) and Temara (center) together with Mr. Sajid .

The Forum, whose meetings are held at the University of Illinois at Chicago-Conference Centre, aimed at sharing information and implementing strategies to build local economies, which are competitive in a global society.

Stressing the importance of the meeting, Mr Sajid said, "this meeting is intended to facilitate the exchange of best practices, the requirement for sustainable and prosperous city."

For his part, Mayor Daley said that "as mayors and heads of municipal governments, we share the same problems. And, as technology continues to advance, we all face the challenge and opportunity, living and working in the global economy". "It is for this reason a meeting of this kind is very important. The information that we are here and sharing relationship we are building will pay enormous benefits for all our cities and our citizens in future."

Conference program focuses on three main themes: economic development and improving quality of life, education and youth, as well as environmental protection and sustainability.

Discussions will focus on the latest innovations that protect the local environment while improving the local economy, such as the development of green building standards, increase the use of renewable energy projects that reduce congestion and improve infrastructure for water and protect water resources practices.

More than 50 municipal leaders from the United States, Canada and the Arab world, participate in this meeting, including leaders from Algeria, Iraq, Jordan, Kuwait, Lebanon, Libya, Morocco property, the Palestinian Authority, Qatar and Yemen.

OFID lends Morocco USD 30 million to finance Fes-Oujda highway project

The OPEC Fund for International Development (OFID), provided by Morocco property USD 30 million loan for the construction segment Fes-Oujda highway in accordance with the agreement signed here Monday.

328-kilometre motorway will be invoked, as in 2010 the central city of Fes in the eastern town of Oujda, on the border with Algeria.

1 billion dollars a draft final phase of ambitious programs to achieve the 1500 km road network by 2010.

When finished, Fez-Oujda motorway will be included in future Maghreban motorway network linking Nouakchott (Mauritania) to Tobrouk (Libya).

OFID has provided Morocco fifteen loans since 1977, covering strategic sectors, such as drinking water, sanitation, energy, health, education, construction of dams and rural development.

300 000 USD loan agreement will be signed on May 5, between the two parties to finance a project to conserve Tambardoute perimeter in the southern province of Guelmim.

Morocco set to face housing deficit, Minister

The annual demand for residential houses in Morocco property, estimated at about 30000 or 40000, which calls for the north African countries to focus efforts to correct this situation, Minister of Housing, Taoufik Hejira said.
Over 60% of the Moroccan population under the age of 30 years, which generates an annual demand of up to 40 000 new housing units, adding the activities of the existing shortfall in the area, Hejira told French daily, L'Echos.
He voiced that Morocco property is set to build 130000 houses to expand access to housing for low-income families. Entities housing will be built by 2012, and their price will not overtop 13000 euros," he said.
Flats, which will be built using earthquake resistant technology, will be from 50 to 60 square meters and will be devoted to households with monthly income less than 270 euros.
These projects, worth 1.5 billion the euro will contribute to the fight speculation, who recently rapid growth of prices and lower prices per square meter to 180 euros.
In 2005, the Government had set up a program of guaranteed loans, known as FOGARIM, in order to facilitate access to generic housing for families with low or irregular incomes, reminded the minister, adding that 33000 families so far benefited from this program.
About the program, aimed at eradicating slums, Hjira noted that 400000 slum dwellers were re-deployed so far, and ten cities have been declared "cities without slums".
The program was initiated in 2004 and aims at the eradication of some 1000 slums throughout the country.
In the same vein, the government is building new towns, in collaboration with French enterprises, the official said, referring to examples of Tamesna in the outskirts of Rabat, and Tamansourt, near Marrakesh. The six new towns in total should be created.

Pierre and Vacance 270 million euro to invest in Morocco

France and Pierre Vacance, operating in holiday resorts, will invest in 270 million euro tourism project in Morocco property as 10 000 beds.

The investment program includes the construction of tourist resorts in the cities of Marrakesh and Agadir, and tourist homes and apartments in Tangier, Rabat and Casablanca.

A total of 2 264 units/apartments will be built by 2013, in accordance with the memorandum of understanding signed between the biggest operator in Europe on holiday resorts and the Moroccan government during the 9 ministers, the joint meeting held in Rabat.

The project will create 700 direct jobs and stable, Ministry of Tourism said.

During the meeting, co-chaired by Moroccan property prime-minister, Abbas El Fassi, and its French peer, Francois Fillon, the two countries signed 16 tie-ups.

UK nationals taking 3-day holidays

Many families in Britain, choosing to take holidays only three or four days, the new study has found.

According to research at the Hotel Holiday Inn, only 48 per cent of people intend to follow the traditional two-week break with their children this year.

The company cited several reasons for this trend, such as parents can not get enough time from work and complexity of obtaining the same dates as their partner.

As a result, more and more people choosing to use their holiday allowance during the year and go to about three or four short breaks throughout the year. This is good news for those are thinking of buying buy-to-let Morocco property abroad.

Holiday Inn said that, as well as having a positive impact on the family unit, is also being more cost-effective than travel abroad during the peak tourist season.

Chris Hale, the official representative of the company, said: "Why spend your hard-earned cash for one big celebration, when three or four weekends a year less stress, less money and much more fun?"

Earlier this week, Lastminute web site forecasted that Morocco propertywill be very popular for recreation this year, along with the islands of Cape Verde.

Competition mounts in Euro property market

The European market is facing increased competition from new values of some "hot spots" in other parts of the world.

International Herald Tribune reports that countries in Africa and South America attracted a higher level of interest from foreign investors' Morocco property rights.

It states their ability to demand the combination of sun, sea and sand, as well as easy access to major cities helps them to rival their European counterparts.

Morocco property, in particular, proved popular and quickly catch up on the likes of Spain and Portugal as the top choice for foreign investment property.

Relatively low prices for most attractive to buyers and increase the number of tourists visiting the country is fuelling demand for rental housing, which means opportunities for buying, that investors in abundance.

Tourism is the country is expected to give further impetus through the Moroccan Government Vision 2010 tourism strategy which aims to raise visitor to five times compared with 2002 levels.

Morocco appeals to different types of buyers

Morocco is attractive to a wide spectrum of foreign property buyers in Britain, according to experts.

Amberlamb Independent analysts said that North Africa is now attracting increased amount of interest from British-based investors.

The organization said Morocco property is very popular among people who want homes for their own personal use, such as cottage owners and expatriates.

However, he noted that the appointment was also provided an attractive Morocco property place for investment, and buyers.

Amberlamb said, the country now accounts for one of five properties in Africa, which are owned by Britons.

Commenting on his call, the group said: "This proves that the country has a serious and growing interest in the Britain-based buyers."

This came after foreign buyers of real estate on the site said that the Government plans to increase the number of tourists in Morocco property in the next two years "is a good" for its rental market.

Mission Possible: Making Money in Morocco

Paul Staines, director of Saffron Villas speaks with Adam Samuel of Nubricks.com to give us his insider information to buy property in Morocco, the full interview is available for download only on nubricks.com.

Morocco. A land of the living culture, classically beautiful coastlines and the contrast of traditional villages and bustling cities. It is just 9 miles away from Spain by sea, you can use in a new way of life and certainly a new world full of possibilities for real estate investors.

Paul Staines has no less than three off-plan apartments in the town of Saidia, the Playa Vista development in Tangiers and at Sunset Beach, south of Casablanca. You can also expect a director to buy one of his company's properties, but to buy three… he clearly knows that we will not.

In 2001 Morocco's new king Mohammed VI announced the "Azure plan and Vision 2010" which intends to tourist flows into the country of 2 million to 10 million within 10 years through the development of major tourism property development projects. Since 2001, the market has grown by around 50-75% with the first new properties will be launched 2 years and with new developers moving into the market, including local companies and developers from Dubai and Europe.

The average price of property currently in Morocco is £ 100000 to £ 125000, but the market offers for the budget £ 50000 as well as luxury multi-million pound properties. There are many types of property in the Azure Plan, including apartments and villas. If you want an original property outside the Azure's plan then riad in the historic Medina, but they can be problematic with title deeds!

Paul called in the podcast "There is a risk when buying outside the plan Azure Resort, use your due diligence and research the developers well. There are a number of large and established developers who are outside the plan, it is the smaller and less well-known developers and agents that you really have to do your research. "

The purchase of a new build property in Morocco, however, is straight forward and similar to European countries, a reservation contract must be signed and the title deeds, signed at the local notary, will be handed over on completion and full payment. One issue to be aware of is that the country is a relatively new market and as such do not have bank guarantees, so that choosing the right developer with a good track record is crucial. Mortgages are easy to reach is subject to state loans of up to 70% are very common and interest rates are between 5.5% to 6.5%.

Buying in Morocco does not have to be either the taxation; taxes for the completion of approximately 5% for the stamp tax, land registration and notary fees. Capital gains tax is 20% on the profits more than £ 60000 €, and after 5 years, goes down to 10% and after 10 years there has been no capital gains tax as it evaluates to 0%. If you plan to rent your property once it is finished, then there is no rental tax for 5 years, and there is no inheritance tax, if your property to a family member.

Morocco, how successful tourist sites before her, more and more accessible, which is good for visitors and investors alike. Ferries are of Gibraltar and Algeciras in southern Spain, but for the majority, and in the sky for the 3 hour direct flight from the United Kingdom is most popular. The open-skies agreement from Morocco from the beginning of this year is also the country up to the low-cost airlines. News, which is also a good omen in the case for Moroccan property investments is the confirmation that the Swiss engineering firm Lombardi has the contract to design the railway tunnel between Europe and Africa running under the Strait of Gibraltar. Like the Channel Tunnel between England and France, the tunnel's degree enables a continuous rail link between the north of Scotland and in Africa.

If you are still not convinced about buying in Morocco, then a visit to sample the local cuisine will help change your mind, it was attracting top-notch celebrity guests such as Kate Moss and P Diddy as far back as 2003. Moroccan cuisine is reputation as one of the top kitchens from all over the world, including the famous couscous, Mechoui, Pastilla, steaming Tagines, pastries and the national drink, mint tea. The climate varies from region to region, the coast has a very mild climate in the humid summer and in winter, average temperature of 16 ° C to 26 ° C; inland ports is much warmer in the summer of up to 33 ° C.

Despite a common belief that it is a claim to speak either Arabic, the native language, or French is spoken in most regions; English is widespread, especially in big cities and tourist areas.

So what about the future of Morocco? Saffron Villas offers the following tips and tricks… Marrakech is gaining in popularity and will see an increase in property development to meet the demand. This city is a wonderful blend of tradition and modernity, but retains its charm, Ski-1 hour and 30 minutes and currently has 3 golf courses with 7 recently received planning permission.

Taghazout place will be available for purchase options during the year 2007, is the sentence to be extremely popular. It is located in the region of Agadir, where it is clean, clear session coast of the Atlantic Ocean, ideal for water sports enthusiasts.

The growth rate and strength of the housing market in Morocco makes it financially attractive. The tourist market has grown from 2 million to 5 million visitors today and it is expected that up to 10 million by the end of the decade and, of course, these visitors will have places to stay. Overall, Morocco should be on your wish list list of places to visit, if not a potential for real estate investments.

Moroccan property satisfaction – guaranteed

Merchants have often inspired confidence in their products by offering money-back guarantee. "Return the product to us in their original state within 30 days and we will be fully reimbursed ..." But what about a property? And what is not 30 days later, but nine years later? The concept seems doubtful, but incredibly developer of the gardens of Fedala in Marrakesh are prepared to do just that, and throw in a 7% Net rental guarantee for the same period. What's more, world-renowned financial protection company, AXA Group, supported both.

Gardens of Fedala is a Moroccan-style sanctuary of a resort interrupted by orange trees, olive trees and rose gardens only 15 minutes from Marrakech's international airport. The two bedroom riads and three bedroom duplex are fully furnished down to the last teaspoon and operated by a club house, health centre, restaurant, bar, swimming pool and a small boutique hotel with sauna and hammam. Private plunge pools are an optional extra, and the completion of the entire system is expected in mid-2009. Already impressed? Read how undoubtedly the transaction makers, the financial guarantees.

Adam Cornwell, CEO of GEM Estates explains: "The French developers behind the gardens of Fedala place their faith in their product and in Morocco as a target in the same way by offering a number of assurances for buyers. Prices in the city of Marrakesh agreements 18% below market value so you immediately locked-in capital and two other reasons, we simply can not lose your money. Firstly, a 7% per year net rental guarantee for nine years by AXA. This represents an income of about 13000 euros per year, after costs, and if you have a 70% mortgage option, the rental guarantee should mean that your property will pay for itself. "

Adam continued, "Secondly, a 100% buy-back guarantee, also supported by AXA is in place for a long nine years. Healthy income and capital growth can be expected, almost a given, taking into account the effects already being felt by Vision 2010, but if you want to sell at any point, you're guaranteed to the price you have paid in full. In the event of a surge in the market, how unlikely it is, AXA is the shortfall so that your full purchase price reduction is guaranteed. Both benefits, guaranteed rent and buy-back, are fully transferable to the new owner should you happen to sell at any time within the nine years. Like other freebies developer of a free return flight for two per year for the first three years, free financial management for the same period and the personal use free of charge for two weeks per year, without the rental guarantee. This is an investment no-brainer. "

A few hours south in the chill-cum-resort town Mirleft Fishing is a sister city gardens of Fedala characterized by fragrant rose beds and green meadows. In the developer inimitable style of this fully equipped villas directly on the beach with ocean views protected and the same number of amenities from a restaurant to small boutique hotel also pay for itself in a princely fashion. Prices 27% below the market value of the two and three bedroom villas with private pools optional come with the same 7% per year net rental guarantee for nine years, supported by AXA, which should comfortably cover mortgage repayments - even at 70% LTV . The project also Mirleft, you guessed it, the gift of a free flight for two per year and budget for the first three years after completion in June 2009 and two weeks personal use without adverse impact on the rental guarantee. The benefits are transferable to the new owner for the sale within nine years.

Rates Gardens Fedala in Marrakesh from 189000 euros for two bedrooms Riads and 249000 euros for three-bedroom duplex. 70% LTV status mortgages are available from the developer with interest currently at 6.6%.

Rates Gardens Fedala in Mirleft launch of 149000 euros for a villa with two bedrooms and 169000 euro for a period of three bedrooms. 70% LTV status mortgages are available from the developer with interest currently at 6.6%.

Shariah investors record high returns

As Morocco to the national tourism strategy, Vision 2010, begins to unfold, and a whole range of new infrastructure improvements into play, the future looks brighter than ever before in Morocco. Investors election luxury property in each of the six King's resort developments, the SHA by King Mohammed VI himself, buys in a rock-solid and fast growing tourist market.

Morocco, the exotic country, famous by Hollywood's "Casablanca", welcomes tourists who try unmistakable Arabic culture, together with outstanding natural beauty can enjoy where they are a multitude of attractions and activities. It is easy to see why the likes of American billionaire Malcolm Forbes, founder of the "Fortune Magazine", among others, began to invest in the area in the 1970s. Today, the castle is purchased Forbes as a "Forbes Museum" and has an impressive collection of 120000 soldiers, as well as many other curiosities, right in the heart of Tangier.

Today, Morocco is seen unprecedented growth, both in the infrastructure and visitor numbers, tourism demand with a rise of 6% in 2006, according to the United Nations World Tourism Organization (UNWTO). The World Travel & Tourism Council predicts the country tourism will continue to grow at a rate of 4% per annum, real, between 2008 and 2017.

The World Travel and Tourism Council Morocco agrees that the market share of the global travel and tourism industry is generally increasing, the major market participants, the French (figures exclude Moroccan nationals in foreign residents), but there was also a tremendous increase in British visitors Des country. Tourists from the United Kingdom to 29% in 2007, compared with 2006, amounting to a total of 418606 visitors in the country.

Much of Morocco's strong performance in the latest period was attributed to increased foreign investment. The country has been particularly successful at attracting foreign direct investment from Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) countries such as the United Arab Emirates and Qatar. A number of mega-projects that are part of Vision 2010, is due to come into fruit within the next 5 to 10 years, and now, after the UNWTO, "Efforts are being made to ensure that the seating capacity in this country , including low-cost airline services, rising in line with the growth in accommodation. "

Sara Romera, product analyst at propertyshowrooms.com explains why the country is always so exciting: "Morocco is still a unique location for real estate investors, and offers the opportunity to purchase property in an early emerging market at very low prices . What is special about the market for real estate in Morocco is the sense of security for investors: With tourism already on a rapid improvement in the speed and buy-to-Investors years of reporting 85% occupancy in prime locations in the high season, Morocco offers a powerful arena in which to invest in property. "

Property development is booming in this North African country, city, but still the key, especially when buying property as an investment. Places in the Mediterranean region is expected to see high rents, especially since they are more easily accessible than some more southerly locations and provide a better climate and weather conditions. Mediterrania Saidia projects such as "The Green" and "The fairways are situated in what is one of the most groundbreaking Morocco and the Mediterranean destinations, the first of the King's resorts will be launched. The complex has room for the in the search for relaxation, tranquillity and elegance, all within the convenience of a purpose-built resort. The fact that the entire complex is used by the king adds a welcome element of the confidence of investors and the expectation that Mediterrania Saidia probably one of the best investment opportunities in Morocco today.

Morocco plans infrastructure improvements

Government of Morocco invests almost 9 billion pounds to improve its transportation network, as was discovered.

Houses for reports that the authorities are seeking to upgrade its transport infrastructure in order to improve the economy of Morocco property.

More than 7 billion pounds will be spent on improving ports, airports and roads, while £ 1.3 billion move to a planned high-speed rail services.

The new train link connecting Tangier and Casablanca properties, offering direct passage between the two cities in just two hours.

This can significantly enhance the property markets in both places, while cities along the route can also use the additional demand.

Morocco property hopes that the government, as well as the strengthening of the economy, the improvement may also attract more foreign investors to the country.

Morocco offers strong rental market

Property of foreign investors who are looking for profitable buying-to-let investment Morocco can find a suitable place, according to industry experts.

NuBricks company said that the tourism sector in the north African country was "on" and has seen some "spectacular growth in recent years.

This has been attributed largely to the efforts of the Government to enhance the desirability of the nation to foreign leisure travelers.

The authorities have recently pumped money into new buildings, recreation and infrastructure modernization in order to make Morocco property a more attractive destination for holiday-makers.

However, it also led to increased interest from foreign property investors, many of whom feel a strong tourism is a strong rental potential.

NuBricks also said: "Overseas property investors would not be less reason to buy the Moroccan property smart and healthy addition to their real estate portfolios."

New "hot spots" of real estate will develop where there is the budget airlines

"Budget" Airlines will be one of the best indicators of where in the next few years will be "hot spots" of real estate.

Nevertheless, cheap air travel as such will not be enough to turn the economy growing any country to the main destination for tourists and investors in Morocco property and real estate.

According to Justin Figginsa from Rightmove Overseas real estate company, it is necessary to pay attention to the growth of tourism as well as for investments in infrastructure.

Infrastructure Bulgaria, for example, are still not very well developed, and in Morocco property, on the other hand, gathers momentum, and, moreover, there goes a lot of tourists, indicating that the country would be profitable to invest in real estate.

EU Trade Commissioner voices readiness to contribute to achieving Morocco's advanced status request

European Union Trade Commissioner, Peter Mandelson expressed his readiness to contribute fully to the achievement of the Moroccan request of advanced status vis-à-vis the European Union (EU), a press release of Foreign Trade Ministry said on Friday.

During a meeting with Minister of Foreign Trade, Abdellatif Maâzouz, in Brussels, the EU official voiced resolve to undertake approaches with other European Commissioners to give a concrete and innovative content to that status.

The two officials also discussed on the Euro-Med process, in particular the effective implementation of the Agadir Agreement signed in 2004 for the establishment of a free trade zone between the four Arab countries (Morocco, Jordan, Egypt and Tunisia).

On that occasion, Mr. Mandelson expressed hope that Morocco could be more involved in the process of Euro-Mediterranean Road Map, stressed that this commitment will help give new impetus to the Barcelona Process.

For his part, stressed Mr. Maâzouz the North African country's commitment to the implementation of the Agadir Agreement, compliance with the Euro-Med process, and their determination to conclude the negotiations with the EU within the agreed time frame.

In this respect, the EU Commissioner for External Relations and European Neighbourhood Policy, Benita Ferrero-Waldner, had stressed on Thursday that the agreement with Morocco on the granting of an advanced status "could be concluded under the French presidency of the European Union."

Morocco is a strong political will to more forward, she stressed that the "advanced status", by the way Morocco for the "broad possibilities of cooperation" with the EU, above all, more liberalization of trade, a deeper political Dialogue, a better harmony vis-à-vis common foreign and security policy issues.

King launches construction works of USD 15 million dam center

King Mohammed VI of Morocco launched, on Monday, the construction works of a dam in the rural commune of Guigou (Boulemane province), for a total investment of USD 15 million.

With a capacity of 7 million cub. meters, the dam is destined to protect the commune of Guigou (19,000 inhabitants) from floods, irrigate agricultural lands downstream, and supply the region with drinking water.

The sovereign heard explanations on the preparation of the project for rural development in the Middle Atlas mountains, in the amount of approximately USD42 million.

The project provides for the establishment of hydro-agricultural facilities and achieving 114 - km of rural roads. Its goal is to enhance and diversify agricultural production in 6150 hectares planting fruit trees, livestock development, and encouraging rural women entrepreneurs and income-generating activities.

The project also aims at reducing poverty, improving the living conditions of the population, conservation of natural resources and rationalize their use for sustainable economic development.

On this occasion, the king laid the cornerstone for the construction of a social centre in a Boulemane province, Morocco property, as part of a large-scale anti-poverty program, the National Initiative for Human Development (INDH), launched in mid-2005 to fight poverty and social exclusion.

Built in 2400 square meters, the USD 150000 facility provides vocational training for women and young people and promoting income-generating activities.

African Emerging Markets Forum praises Morocco's developments

The first African Emerging Markets Forum, held in Rabat last week, brought together officials and experts from 18 countries. Hailed as the first major event of its kind, the Forum provided an opportunity for exchange and dialogue between government leaders and world-renowned specialists.

Economics Professor Salim Karroumi said that the main events of this kind encourage foreigns and stimulate the labor market. "This is very important for Morocco property to hold this kind of meeting, as it will raise the country's profile in the eyes of investors," he said. "It will also have a significant impact on the national economy, which would be easier to serve job seekers."

Moroccan economy and finance minister, Salaheddine Mezouar said Morocco property has put forward in three areas in order to help preserve the country's socio-economic growth: democracy and freedom, openness and social development. "Our country has defined its own characteristics and assets on the basis of which it can build a strong and attractive economics. Therefore decided to take advantage of its strategic geographical location, its highly skilled manpower, natural resources and its openness to the means of free trade agreements "he said.

Calling to united Maghreb a "strategic imperative", as well as economic opportunities, the Minister for Foreign Affairs Taieb Fassi Fihri insisted on the need for regional cooperation. He expressed regret that the Arab Maghreb Union, established in 1989, is the "least developed" by such an authority on the continent.

He said that although the country had made progress in the development of bilateral relations, economic integration at the regional level is essential for further progress.

Morocco 'good example' for emerging countries that take up challenge of joining global market, expert

Morocco is a "good example for emerging countries that took up the challenge of joining the global market and embracing globalization, while developing its economy," executive manager of "Forum of Emerging markets", Hatrinder Kohli said on Monday.

"The Moroccan economy is doing well. His majesty the king and the cabinet are looking forward," said the Indian expert in a statement to the Moroccan property news Agency on the fringes of the two-day meeting (April 7-9 in Rabat).

Touching on the negative impact of the soaring prices of basic products, Mr. Kohli said that African countries, including Morocco, face a challenge of how to invest southern riches carefully.

Echoing Mr. Kohli, honorary governor of Banque de France and former International Monetary Fund director-general, Michel Camdessus, said Morocco property has made, over the past fifteen years, sustained efforts aiming to consolidate macroeconomic balances, production structures, irrigation and agricultural development, which have enabled Morocco property to face the oil price hike on international markets.

Commending the Moroccan property experience in this field as “very typical”, he underlined that “Morocco faces a shock which would have been difficult to overcome had these works not been achieved.”

Morocco a 'priority country' in co-operation with Catalonia, Spanish official

Morocco property is a "priority country" in foreign cooperation with Catalonia, said Thursday President of the autonomous government of this region, José Montilla.

Speaking at a press conference at the end of his three-day visit to Morocco, Spain said that his official visit, the first outside the European Union "showed interest in the Catalan government to strengthen the cooperation relations with the Kingdom in all sectors."

Mr. Montilla, who chaired the important business of the Moroccan property delegation, stressed the growing interest of Catalan companies in investment opportunities, Morocco, particularly in the automotive field.

On bilateral cooperation, Mr. Montilla recalled that his Government had allocated about USD 3.4Mn to finance projects in partnership with NGOs and local communities.
This visit, according to a Spanish official, was to create a "high-level bilateral economic relations, the strengthening of economic and trade relations and to explore opportunities to increase the existing relations between the two sides in various fields of mutual interest.

Morocco, Egypt, Nigeria deliver strong returns for Shariah investors in Q1

Standard & Poor's ratings services said equity markets in Morocco property, Egypt and Nigeria delivered the highest returns for investors in companies famous to meet Islamic law during the first three months of 2008.

S&P said over the first quarter of 2008, Shariah-compliant equities in Morocco property returned 34.45 percent on a total return basis, followed by Egypt with 18.93 percent returns and Nigeria with 13.42 percent returns.

S&P noticed that Shariah-compliant equities in Turkey, China and India suffered the largest declines during the quarter.

In Turkey, Shariah-compliant stocks decreased by 26.67 percent, followed by China which fell 26.57 percent and India which fell 26.43 percent, S&P added.

Is Morocco "dark horse" in the real estate investment market?

Over the next three years, Morocco will become the primary destination for visitors to the Mediterranean region. Partly due to the fact that investment in real estate in the region will grow.

According to the Property showrooms site, referring to the Daily Reckoning, experienced buyers of foreign real estate knows that real estate in Morocco can be purchased for about a third of the amount that would have been spent on the same level of real estate in Portugal or Spain.

According to the publication, thanks to the emergence of new facilities built real estate prices in Morocco could rise to the south of Spain.

Dubai invests $ 19 billion in Morocco real estate

The two biggest companies in the real estate market of Dubai Emaar Properties and Dubai Holding signed an agreement with the Moroccan government to invest $ 19 billion development of the real estate market in the Kingdom of Morocco.

Dubai Holding signed a $ 12 - ty billion construction contract for 5 years, residential real estate and hotel complexes in large Moroccan cities. Emaar Properties invests in Morocco $ 6.8 billion on the implementation of six projects. "Most of them roaring" is the construction of towers Dubai Towers - Casablanca and Marina de Casablanca worth 1.1 billion that incorporate residential apartments, hotel, business centre and entertainment centre.