Forbes Afrique (October 2026) looks at how Africa’s wealthiest families are turning second homes into real investment assets. Dr Abdelhadi Laaouina, luxury real estate advisor at Morocco Sotheby’s International Realty, shares his view of the Marrakech market in the article.
What I shared with Forbes Afrique
- A more diverse clientele. Marrakech’s luxury market has historically been driven by foreign buyers, mainly European. Over the last three years, I have seen more Moroccans living abroad, dual nationals and buyers from other African countries, even if foreign clients still account for most luxury purchases.
- Location follows lifestyle. Some buyers want to be close to the city, international schools or golf courses; others look for privacy and calm further out.
- Yield now drives decisions. Over the past five years, profitability has become central: many clients calculate their expected return precisely before buying.
- Tourism makes second homes work. Strong tourism lets owners rent their villa, riad, kasbah or estate when they are away, offering travellers a high-end alternative to hotels.
The bigger picture
The article cites the Africa Wealth Report 2025 (Henley & Partners and New World Wealth): Marrakech is one of the African hubs where the number of millionaires grew fastest over the past decade (+67%). With Morocco welcoming around 9.4 million visitors in the first half of 2026, the case for second homes that generate rental income keeps getting stronger.
Thinking about a second home or a hospitality asset in Marrakech? Let’s talk about your project.