Spain’s housing crisis: what it means for Moroccans living there

This update focuses on Spain housing crisis. Spain is facing a deepening housing crisis, with mass protests against soaring rents and evictions that are directly affecting many Moroccans living in the country.

Spain housing crisis sparks nationwide protests

Thousands of people took to the streets on Saturday in several Spanish cities to denounce the steady rise in rents and a wave of evictions. This Spain housing crisis intensified after political parties rejected two draft laws designed to strengthen tenant protections.

Public outrage grew after the eviction of 87-year-old Maricarmen Abascal from the home where she had lived her entire life. Her case has become a symbol of the current brutality of the rental market.

Authorities in Madrid estimate that around 70,000 people joined the march in the capital, while organisers claim up to 500,000 participants. Demonstrations were blocked in some cities, and tenant groups are already considering further protests and even a general strike.

Moroccan tenants on the front line

In many major Spanish cities, a significant share of tenants are foreign nationals, including a large Moroccan community. They are exposed to the same pressures: rents rising faster than wages, unstable contracts and the risk of eviction in case of payment difficulties.

Activists blame the boom in short-term tourist rentals, such as those listed on platforms like Airbnb, and the growing role of investment funds. These players are accused of pushing up prices and shrinking the supply of homes available for long-term residents.

Tenant groups are calling for:

• more secure rental contracts, and even lifetime leases for vulnerable residents;
• strict caps on rent increases;
• tight regulation of tourist apartments;
• a major increase in public investment in affordable housing.

For Moroccans who live and work in Spain, these demands reflect everyday concerns: difficulty finding housing close to work, forced flat-sharing, and gradual displacement from city centres and essential services.

Impact on travel, family visits and plans to return

For Moroccans in Spain who regularly travel back to Morocco for family visits or holidays, the Spain housing crisis is making it harder to manage a life split between both sides of the Mediterranean.

Rising rents weigh directly on household budgets and affect:

• what can be spent on plane or ferry tickets for regular trips to Morocco;
• summer holidays with family in the homeland;
• the ability to save for a property purchase in Morocco.

Higher monthly rent can delay buying a home back in Morocco or reduce the amount of money sent to relatives there. In the most expensive tourist areas, some residents are forced to move into smaller homes or to more distant neighbourhoods, complicating the organisation of travel and seasonal returns.

So far, no measure linked to this situation has changed travel conditions between Spain and Morocco. Air and sea connections are operating normally, but tighter personal budgets make early planning more important. It is advisable to book tickets well in advance, especially in peak season, and to compare offers on official websites of airlines and operators such as Royal Air Maroc.

Between housing in Spain and long-term roots in Morocco

For those considering a gradual return to Morocco or a dual life split between the two countries, this tense housing market can accelerate decisions. Renegotiating a lease, moving to a cheaper home or advancing plans to buy in Morocco are becoming strategic choices.

Before making major decisions, it is useful to:

• understand tenant rights and eviction procedures in Spain;
• review your real budget after rent and utilities;
• consult guidance specifically designed for Moroccans abroad, such as Canal212’s practical guides for expatriates;
• think long term about where your family, work and main investments should be based.

The situation is still evolving. Tenant organisations have vowed to keep up the pressure until stronger housing protections are put in place. In the meantime, Moroccans living in Spain must navigate an increasingly strained rental market and adjust their travel plans, savings strategy and long-term projects between Spain and Morocco.

For more context, readers can follow Canal212 news for Moroccans abroad.