Algeria and Türkiye Real Estate Investment: Strong Ties Between Casablanca and Ankara

Real Estate Investment in Algeria and Turkey: Strong Ties Between Casablanca and AnkaraIn recent years, wealthy and middle-class families in Algeria, one of North Africa's largest economies, have increasingly turned to Turkey in their search for home ownership. This movement isn't just a random trend; it's the natural result of deep historical, cultural, and economic ties. At the heart of this trend are both Casablanca, Algeria's commercial heart, and Ankara, Turkey's political and economic center. For many years, Casablanca's businesspeople had turned to Europe. However, in the past decade, especially since 2018, this trend has gradually shifted toward Turkey. Why? Because Turkey is no longer just a neighboring country; it has become a safe, accessible, and culturally familiar alternative. Foreign currency shortages, housing shortages, and administrative barriers in Algeria have forced many families to buy property abroad. However, European countries now face high costs, complex visa policies, and cultural distances. This is where Turkey comes in. Ankara is not only Turkey's capital but also an ideal destination for Algerian investors. The city's well-organized infrastructure, low crime rates, international schools, good healthcare, and, especially, its "less expensive than Europe but as modern" standard of living are significant advantages for Algerian families. Furthermore, the thousands of Algerian students and diplomats living in Ankara create a sense of belonging to the city. Many Algerians say, "I feel at home in Ankara." There are no language differences, the traditions are similar, the food is familiar, and in some neighborhoods, Algerian communities have even established their own social circles. Turkey's 2019 law allowing foreigners to purchase real estate has accelerated this trend. Algerian citizens can purchase houses, apartments, or land in Turkey without any restrictions. This allows property ownership with just a passport and title deed, eliminating the need for special permits like those in France or Spain. Some wealthy families in Casablanca have turned to Ankara, rather than Istanbul, seeking a quieter, cleaner, and safer life. Projects for Algerian families purchasing new homes have increased, particularly in districts like Çankaya, Mecidiyeköy, Keçiören, and Mamak. Some have not only purchased second homes but also begun generating passive income through rental apartments. Rental returns can be several times higher than bank interest rates in Algeria. Some Algerian entrepreneurs are opening small offices in Ankara and collaborating with construction companies in their home country. High-quality construction materials and technologies from Turkey are now being preferred in Algerian projects. This relationship is not limited to individual ownership; it is evolving into economic cooperation. Furthermore, the number of Algerian tourists in Turkey is rapidly increasing. However, these tourists no longer come solely for summer vacation. Many become permanent, saying, "We came once, bought a house, and didn't want to go back." The Algerian community gatherings, dinner parties, and cultural events held in Ankara are no longer just local events; they have become a constantly growing social structure. This bond is fueled not only by money but also by human values. When considering their children's education in Turkey, Algerian families choose the family-oriented society of Turkey over the cultural exclusion of Europe. Women can freely walk the streets without wearing headscarves, and children receive an education grounded in both Turkish and Islamic culture. Therefore, Casablanca and Ankara are no longer just an investment connection, but a life connection. Although both cities are situated in different geographies, they are moving forward with similar values, similar goals, and similar hopes. The joy and energy of Istanbul are magnificent, but the calm, security, and order of Ankara offer a greater sense of home for Algerian families. This is not just a property—it's a future. And this connection isn't just a trend that began a few years ago. It's now a dynamic, enduring, and growing relationship. Those coming from Algeria don't just buy a house when they come to Ankara. They choose a life. They find a home. And a homeland, later on, becomes a country.