Moroccan financial authorities are investigating suspected money laundering activities linked to studio apartment purchases for short-term rental purposes near Casablanca, well-placed sources told Hespress AR.
The probe, led by the National Financial Intelligence Authority (ANRF), was triggered by suspicious transaction reports (SARs) submitted by local real estate agents. These reports revealed unusually large cash down payments—sometimes covering up to 70% of a property’s value.
Investigators have reportedly identified several individuals who presented themselves as young investors to developers, claiming to use international platforms such as Airbnb and Booking.com to generate income from short-term rentals. Both platforms are regulated under Morocco’s Law 80.14 governing tourist establishments.
However, ANRF findings point to several red flags, including the buyers’ lack of officially registered employment or tax records. The individuals under scrutiny are not affiliated with Morocco’s National Social Security Fund (CNSS), and authorities found no evidence of real estate ownership elsewhere that could justify the large sums involved.
Sources also cited direct cash deposits into bank accounts from these individuals, as well as links to relatives of Moroccan migrants involved in real estate development. These networks reportedly engage in subdividing and reselling large plots of land, raising further suspicions.
The investigation comes amid a nationwide boom in short-term rental listings, particularly in Morocco’s tourist hubs. Much of the activity is unregulated, posing heightened risks of money laundering and tax evasion.
Authorities have not disclosed the number of properties or individuals involved, but sources say the inquiry is at an advanced stage and could lead to broader regulatory action.
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