Investing in the restaurant industry in Morocco is attracting more and more entrepreneurs: Moroccans from abroad returning to the country, European expatriates settled on the coast, restaurateurs looking to open a new venue. Agadir is one of the most interesting cities for this type of project. Here’s what you need to know before getting started: the context, the rules for foreigners, the choice between franchise and independent concept, the premises, and the key steps.
Why invest in a restaurant in Agadir?
Agadir thrives on tourism year-round thanks to its mild climate and beaches, and hosts a significant community of expatriates and European retirees. The local population is increasingly dining out, whether with family or friends. As a result, demand spans all formats, from street food snacks to large dining establishments.
The city is also transforming rapidly. The Agadir City Center project, located between the city center and Founty, features a mall of 87,000 m² with a food court, a hotel, and a convention center. To the north, Taghazout Bay is upscale with its golf course, hotels, and villas. New commercial areas are developing on the outskirts, such as in Drarga. These are all locations where new venues will be established.
To get an idea of the current offerings, browse our restaurant guide for Agadir: it clearly shows the neighborhoods where customers are concentrated and the cuisines that are still underrepresented.
Investing in Morocco as a foreigner or MRE
Morocco is open to foreign investors. Here are a few points to know:
Creating a company
- A foreigner can own 100% of a Moroccan company.
- The SARL is the most common form, and there is no longer a legal minimum capital requirement.
- The Regional Investment Center (CRI) Souss-Massa serves as a one-stop shop for business creation.
Financing and repatriating
- A contribution financed in foreign currency through a Moroccan bank grants access to the convertibility regime.
- Dividends and proceeds from a resale can then be transferred abroad, after taxes.
- Keep all currency exchange receipts from the first transfer.
These rules are evolving: have your setup validated by a domiciled bank and a Moroccan accountant before committing funds. We can connect you with the right contacts in Agadir.
If your project also includes real estate purchase, check out our guide to investing in real estate in Agadir.
Franchise or independent concept?
The franchise model attracts many investors in Morocco: a well-known brand, established recipes and suppliers, support during the opening. In return, you need to budget for an entry fee, royalties, and a strict specification regarding location and layout.
The independent concept requires more initial work, but you retain full freedom over the menu, pricing, and the venue’s identity, as well as the entire margin. In Agadir, several restaurateurs started with a small snack before opening larger establishments: this is often the safest way to test a concept.
Renting a premises or taking over a business
Renting an empty premises
- Total freedom on the concept and layout
- Kitchen and extraction work may be required
- A key money payment is often requested by the owner
Taking over a business
- Faster opening, kitchen already equipped
- Clientele and permits may already be in place
- Check the accounts, lease, and condition of the equipment
In both cases, location makes a difference: foot traffic, parking, terrace, and possible extraction. The best premises go quickly, often before they are even published on listing sites, which is why having a local network is beneficial.
The steps to open your restaurant in Agadir
- Define the concept and budget: type of cuisine, average ticket, seating or street food.
- Choose the area: beachfront, city center, Founty, Taghazout Bay, or new zones.
- Find the premises and negotiate the lease or business takeover.
- Create the company and open a professional bank account.
- Obtain the permits: operating, hygiene and health safety, fire safety, signage.
- Fit out and equip the kitchen and dining area, then choose suppliers.
- Recruit the team and prepare for the launch: Google listing, Instagram, website.
A restaurateur based in Agadir and our digital team will assist you, from finding the premises to attracting your first customers.
Discover the supportFrequently Asked Questions
Can a foreigner invest in a restaurant in Morocco?
Yes. A foreigner can create a company in Morocco, own 100% of the capital, and operate a restaurant. The SARL is the most commonly used form by small and medium-sized enterprises.
Can profits from a restaurant in Morocco be repatriated?
When the investment is financed in foreign currency through a Moroccan bank, it benefits from the convertibility regime: dividends and proceeds from a potential resale can be transferred abroad, after taxes. Keep all currency exchange receipts and have the setup validated by your bank and an accountant.
Is there a minimum capital requirement to create an SARL in Morocco?
There is no longer a legal minimum capital requirement for an SARL in Morocco. However, the capital should be consistent with the project, as it reassures banks, landlords, and suppliers.
Which neighborhood should be chosen for a restaurant in Agadir?
This depends on your clientele: the beachfront and marina for tourists, the city center and Talborjt for local clientele and offices, Founty and Agadir City Center for the new commercial hub, Taghazout Bay for high-end international clientele.