Living in Agadir: the ultimate expat guide

Agadir's economy is driven primarily by tourism, fishing, and agriculture, creating diverse employment opportunities for expatriates with the right skills. The Souss-Massa region accounts for approximately 70% of Morocco's coastal tourism, generating thousands of jobs in hospitality, hotel management, and related services. The fishing industry is equally significant, with Agadir's port being one of the largest in Africa for sardine exports.

Key Employment Sectors

The hospitality sector remains the primary employer for expatriates, with international hotel chains such as Sofitel, RIU, and Iberostar operating major resorts along the beachfront. Positions range from hotel management and guest relations to executive chef roles. The call center industry has also expanded significantly, with companies like Concentrix hiring multilingual staff for customer service positions in English, German, French, and Italian. Agriculture and agribusiness offer opportunities in the argan oil industry and citrus export sector.

Work Permits and Requirements

Foreign nationals require a work permit issued by the Moroccan Ministry of Employment, along with a work visa obtained from the Moroccan embassy in their home country. Employers must demonstrate that no qualified Moroccan candidate is available for the position through the ANAPEC (National Agency for Employment). Short-term work authorizations are available for assignments under 90 days. After arriving in Morocco, employees must apply for a residence permit (Carte de Séjour) through the local police.

The table below presents key employment indicators for the Agadir region:

Sources: Morocco High Commission for Planning (HCP), Numbeo

Agadir serves as a major educational hub for southern Morocco, offering both public and private higher education institutions. International students benefit from affordable tuition fees, diverse programs, and opportunities to experience Moroccan culture while pursuing their academic goals.

Ibn Zohr University

Université Ibn Zohr (UIZ) is the primary public university in Agadir, established in 1989 and named after the renowned 12th-century Andalusian scholar Avenzoar. The university enrolls over 150,000 students across multiple campuses in eight cities throughout the Souss-Massa region. UIZ offers bachelor's, master's, and doctoral programs in sciences, law, economics, humanities, medicine, and pharmacy. The Faculty of Medicine and Pharmacy, established in 2017, addresses regional healthcare training needs. International students pay approximately USD 1,000 per year in tuition fees. The language of instruction varies by program, with courses offered in Arabic, French, and some English-taught programs available.

Universiapolis – International University of Agadir

Universiapolis is a private international university offering programs through five schools: Business, Engineering, Hospitality and Communication, Law and Political Science, and Health Sciences. The university emphasizes international cooperation and provides programs with European partner institutions. Tuition fees are higher than public universities but include access to modern facilities and smaller class sizes.

Admission to Moroccan universities typically requires a high school diploma equivalent to the Moroccan Baccalauréat (similar to A-levels). International applicants must apply through the Moroccan Agency for International Cooperation (AMCI) for scholarships or directly to institutions for self-funded programs.

Sources: Ibn Zohr University, Universiapolis

Agadir has become an increasingly popular retirement destination for expatriates seeking year-round sunshine, affordable living, and quality healthcare. Nearly 60,000 retired French citizens currently live in Morocco, with many choosing coastal cities like Agadir for their golden years.

Why Retirees Choose Agadir

The city's 300+ days of sunshine and mild winters (average temperatures rarely drop below 15°C) provide an ideal climate for retirees with health concerns or those simply seeking to escape harsh northern winters. The cost of living allows pension income to stretch significantly further than in Europe or North America. Modern healthcare facilities, including private clinics with English and French-speaking staff, provide adequate medical care for most needs. The relaxed, less chaotic atmosphere compared to cities like Marrakech appeals to those seeking tranquility.

Residence Permit for Retirees

Morocco does not offer a specific retirement visa. Retirees from visa-exempt countries (including the US, UK, EU, Canada, and Australia) can enter Morocco and stay for 90 days without a visa. To stay longer, retirees must apply for a Carte de Séjour (residence permit) at the local police station within the first 30 days of arrival. Required documents include a valid passport, proof of financial resources (bank statements showing approximately USD 500+ monthly income), proof of accommodation, and a police clearance certificate. The permit is initially valid for one year and renewable annually or for 5-10 years thereafter.

Healthcare Considerations

Private health insurance is strongly recommended for retirees. Morocco has a public healthcare system (CNSS), but private hospitals in Agadir offer higher standards of care with modern equipment. International health insurance plans are popular among expatriate retirees to ensure access to quality treatment and potential medical evacuation if needed.

Agadir offers several schooling options for expatriate families, including international schools following British, American, and French curricula. While the selection is smaller than in Casablanca or Marrakech, quality education is available for children from preschool through high school.

International Schools in Agadir

The Lycée Français International d'Agadir (LFIA) is the most established international school, offering education from maternelle (preschool) through lycée (senior high school). Accredited by the French Ministry of Education, LFIA follows the French national curriculum and prepares students for the French Baccalauréat. The school is located in the Quartier Sonaba and serves both French nationals and international families seeking a rigorous French-language education.

The American Group International School (AGI), established in 2013, offers a K-12 American curriculum. Located in the Nahda district, AGI has hosted students from over 46 nationalities and specializes in personalized education, including programs for students with special needs. The school prepares students for SAT and ACT examinations.

Enrollment and Fees

Enrollment at international schools typically requires previous school records, passport copies, and health certificates. The academic year runs from September to June. Moroccan public schools operate in Arabic and French but are generally not suitable for non-Arabic speaking children.

Sources: LFIA, American Group International

Finding accommodation in Agadir is relatively straightforward, with options ranging from modern apartments in the city center to beachfront villas in the tourist zone. Rental prices are considerably lower than in European cities, making Agadir attractive for expatriates seeking good value.

Popular Neighborhoods for Expats

The Founty district is one of the most sought-after areas, located near the beach and marina, offering luxury apartments and villas with pools. Marina Agadir provides an upscale lifestyle with restaurants, shops, and yacht facilities at your doorstep. The city center (Talborjt and Hay Mohammadi) offers convenient access to amenities, markets, and public transport at more affordable rates. Secteur Touristique along the beachfront is ideal for those who prioritize proximity to the ocean and resort facilities.

Rental Process and Prices

Rentals are typically arranged directly with landlords or through local real estate agents. Standard lease terms are one year, with two months' deposit required upfront. Furnished apartments are widely available, particularly in tourist areas. Utilities (electricity, water, internet) typically add MAD 300–600 per month to rental costs.

The table below shows average monthly rental prices:

Sources: Numbeo 2025

Agadir offers a diverse range of leisure activities, from world-class beaches and water sports to cultural discoveries and outdoor adventures. The city's modern infrastructure and proximity to stunning natural landscapes make it an appealing destination for active lifestyles.

Beaches and Water Sports

Plage d'Agadir stretches over 10 kilometers of golden sand, equipped with sun loungers, lifeguards, and beachfront cafés. The sheltered bay offers calm waters ideal for swimming and water sports including jet skiing, paddleboarding, and parasailing. For surfing enthusiasts, Taghazout (23 km north) is a world-renowned surf destination with consistent Atlantic waves and a laid-back beach village atmosphere. Surf schools and equipment rentals are widely available.

Cultural Attractions

The Amazigh Heritage Museum (Musée du Patrimoine Amazigh) showcases Berber culture through collections of jewelry, carpets, traditional clothing, and musical instruments. Admission costs approximately MAD 20. Agadir Oufella (the Kasbah ruins) sits atop a hill overlooking the city, offering panoramic views of the bay and coastline—particularly spectacular at sunset. A cable car now connects the city to the hilltop. The Medina Polizzi (Nouvelle Médina), designed by Italian architect Coco Polizzi in 1992, recreates a traditional Moroccan medina with artisan workshops and craft shops.

Day Trips and Excursions

Paradise Valley (60 km from Agadir) features emerald pools, palm groves, and dramatic red rock formations—perfect for hiking and swimming. Souss-Massa National Park protects 33,800 hectares of wetlands and is home to the rare northern bald ibis. Crocoparc houses over 300 Nile crocodiles in a botanical garden setting. The Agadir Marina offers upscale restaurants, boutiques, and evening entertainment along the waterfront.

Sources: Moroccan National Tourist Office

Daily life in Agadir combines the relaxed pace of a beach town with the conveniences of a modern city. The wide, palm-lined boulevards make walking and cycling pleasant, while an expanding public transport network connects neighborhoods across the metropolitan area.

Transportation Options

Public buses operated by ALSA cover most of the city and surrounding areas. A single journey costs MAD 3.50–5, paid directly to the driver. In October 2025, Agadir received 70 new buses as part of Morocco's national urban transport modernization program, with an additional 177 buses planned. The AeroBus airport shuttle connects Al-Massira Airport to the city center in approximately 50 minutes for MAD 50 (round-trip MAD 80). Petit taxis (orange in Agadir) operate within the city limits using meters, with typical fares of MAD 15–40 for short trips. Grand taxis serve fixed routes to nearby towns like Inezgane and Taghazout.

Cultural Particularities

Agadir is known as the capital of Amazigh (Berber) culture, with Tamazight widely spoken alongside Arabic and French. The city is more relaxed than traditional Moroccan cities—modest dress is appreciated but Western attire is common along the beachfront. Souk El Had, one of Morocco's largest markets with over 6,000 stalls, offers fresh produce, spices, and local goods at reasonable prices. Most shops and businesses close for a few hours during the afternoon siesta. Alcohol is available in licensed hotels, restaurants, and supermarkets. The weekend is Saturday and Sunday, though some businesses observe Friday as a day of rest.

Sources: ALSA, Agadir Airport

Agadir offers one of the most affordable costs of living among popular expatriate destinations. Overall expenses are approximately 42% lower than in the United States and significantly cheaper than most European cities. Your budget will vary depending on lifestyle choices, but comfortable living is achievable even on modest income.

Monthly Budget for a Single Person

A single expatriate can live comfortably in Agadir on approximately USD 800–1,200 per month, including rent. This budget allows for a decent apartment, regular dining out, and leisure activities.

Monthly Budget for a Family of Four

A family of four can expect to spend approximately USD 1,800–2,500 per month, including rent but excluding international school fees (which add USD 4,000–8,000 annually).

Sources: Numbeo 2025, Livingcost.org