A domain name is usually ready to use just seconds after registration. However, this is not always the case for .ma domains. You try to use your .ma domain only to find it is not active yet. You check the domain status in theWHOIS database, and you findPendingCreate or ServerHold instead of Active/OK status.
If this happens to you, don't worry. We will explain why this status appears, what it means for your domain name, and what you can do to resolve it.
What is a PendingCreate/ServerHold domain status?
When you register a.MA domain, the request does not become active instantly. It first goes through a validation filter managed byANRT (Agence Nationale de Réglementation des Télécommunications), which is the official registry for .MA domains.
Registrars like ours act as intermediaries, but ANRT has the final say to approve or reject a domain.
One common reason a domain is flagged is because it may contain areserved term. You can learn more in our detailed guide:
How to register a .MA domain name with a reserved term?
It is important to note:
The list of reserved terms is not exhaustive.
ANRT may place a domain on hold for other reasons, according to their internal review process.
In this case, your domain entersPendingCreate/ServerHold and is temporarily on hold pending further review.
What to do if your domain is on hold
If your domain name is on hold, you will receive anotification email explaining the situation. This email is crucial as it informs you of what is required to proceed.
In most cases, you will need to:
Respond to the email detailing how you intend to use the domain name.
Provide supporting documents if requested. These may include:
A registered trademark certificate.
A company registration document.
Once you provide the required information to your registrar, ANRT will continue its review.
What happens after submitting the request?
Two outcomes are possible:
Approved domain : If your justification is accepted, the hold is lifted and the domain becomes active.
Cancelled domain : If the justification is insufficient or eligibility conditions are not met, the domain registration is cancelled.
What happens if you do not respond?
If the ANRT requests additional information and you do not respond within five (5) business days, the domain is automatically removed from the register. This means you will lose your registration and must restart the process if you still wish to obtain this domain.
Important note
Sometimes, domains are put on hold due to a false alarm during the screening process. In this case, no action is required on your part — the domain will be automatically activated once the registry has validated it.
In summary: PendingCreate/ServerHold is not an error, but rather a verification step. As long as you respond promptly to the ANRT request and provide the necessary documents, your domain can be successfully released.