About .ma domain
.ma is a country code top-level domain (ccTLD) delegated to Morocco. It is operated by the Agence Nationale de Réglementation des Télécommunications (ANRT). The extension was launched in 1993. It is a standard ccTLD product offered through accredited registrars, with registrations available directly at the second level or under specific third-level categories.
Who can register .ma domain
Registration is open to any natural or legal person. However, a local administrative contact within Morocco is required to complete the registration. There are no restrictions based on nationality or residency for the registrant themselves, but they must appoint a local contact. Different second-level domains like .gov.ma or .ac.ma have additional restrictions for government and educational entities, respectively.
How to register .ma domain
- Search for your desired .ma domain name's availability through an accredited .ma registrar, checking both the general .ma second level and relevant third-level options like .co.ma or .org.ma.
- Compare offers from different ANRT-accredited registrars, as pricing and bundled services like local contact provision may vary.
- Complete the checkout process with your chosen registrar, providing your registrant details and arranging for the mandatory local administrative contact in Morocco.
- Verify your contact information and configure your domain's DNS settings through your registrar's control panel to point the domain to your website or email service.
Typical uses of .ma domain
The .ma domain extension is primarily used by entities connected to Morocco, including local businesses, organizations, and individuals seeking a clear geographic association. It is popular for commercial websites targeting the Moroccan market, often using .co.ma, as well as for educational institutions (ac.ma), government services (gov.ma), and non-profits (org.ma). Users choose it to establish local credibility and relevance within the country's digital landscape.
Tips for registering .ma domain
- A local administrative contact with a Moroccan address is mandatory for all .ma domain registrations.
- Domain names can include specific accented Latin characters (like
é, ç, ü) but cannot begin or end with a hyphen.
- Registrations are available directly at the second level (.ma) or at the third level beneath categorized second-level domains like .net.ma or .press.ma.
- The registry provides a formal dispute resolution policy for handling complaints and claims related to domain registrations.
Frequently asked questions about .ma domain
How much does it cost to register and renew a .ma domain?
As of today, .ma domains start from $26.94/yr on NameBeta, with prices ranging up to $121.00/yr across 7 registrars. See the registrar comparison table on this page for live prices.Which registrars support .ma domains?
NameBeta tracks 7 registrars that support .ma domain registration, with the cheapest option at $26.94/yr. Full list on this page.Who operates .ma domain?
The registry for .ma domains is ANRT, administered by Agence Nationale de Réglementation des Télécommunications (ANRT).
Who can register a .ma domain?
While anyone can be a registrant, you must provide a local administrative contact based in Morocco to complete the registration. This contact can be an individual or a company, but their local presence is a strict requirement. Different second-level domains have specific eligibility criteria; for example, .gov.ma is reserved for governmental entities.
Can I transfer a .ma domain between registrars?
Transferring a .ma domain between accredited registrars is possible and follows a standard process. You will need to obtain an authorization code from your current registrar and initiate the transfer with the gaining registrar. The mandatory local contact information must remain valid and up-to-date throughout the transfer to avoid any interruptions.
Can I register a .ma domain with accented characters?
Yes, the .ma registry allows the registration of domain names containing specific accented Latin characters, such as à, â, ç, è, é, ê, ë, î, ï, ô, ù, û, ü, and ÿ. This supports the use of French and other languages. However, the domain name cannot begin or end with a hyphen, and a hyphen cannot be placed in the third and fourth character positions.
What is the dispute policy for .ma domains?
The ANRT registry has a formal complaints and disputes procedure for .ma domain names. This policy provides a mechanism for resolving conflicts, such as trademark disputes or abusive registrations. Parties involved in a dispute can submit their case through the official registry website, where it will be reviewed according to the established regulations.
Are there different types of .ma domains I can register?
Yes, you can register a domain directly at the second level (e.g., example.ma) or at the third level under specific second-level categories. These categories include .co.ma for commercial entities, .org.ma for organizations, .ac.ma for educational institutions, .gov.ma for government, .net.ma for internet providers, and .press.ma for press and publications, each with its intended use.
