How to Call Aruba
Complete guide to dialing Aruba (country code +297)
Planning to connect with someone in the beautiful Caribbean island of Aruba? Understanding how to call Aruba correctly ensures your call goes through smoothly the first time. Whether you're coordinating travel plans, conducting business, or staying in touch with loved ones, calling Aruba requires knowing the proper international dialing format and country code. This comprehensive guide walks you through everything you need for successful international calls to Aruba. We'll cover step-by-step dialing instructions from various countries, highlight common mistakes that could prevent your call from connecting, share essential phone etiquette tips for calling the island, and provide useful emergency and service numbers you might need. By the end, you'll confidently make calls to Aruba without hesitation or confusion.
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Quick Reference
Dialing Instructions
International Dialing Format Structure
To call Aruba from anywhere in the world, you need three components: your country's exit code, Aruba's country code (+297), and the local Aruba number. Aruba uses 7-digit local numbers with no area codes or leading zeros to drop.
Basic Format: [Exit Code] + 297 + [7-digit Local Number]
How to Dial from Different Countries
From USA or Canada:
- Dial 011 (North American exit code)
- Dial 297 (Aruba country code)
- Dial the 7-digit local number
From UK or Europe:
- Dial 00 (European exit code)
- Dial 297 (Aruba country code)
- Dial the 7-digit local number
From Other Countries:
Replace the exit code with your country's international access code, then follow the same pattern.
Specific Dialing Examples
Example 1 - Calling an Aruba Landline from USA:
To call +297 582 3456 from the United States:
Dial 011-297-582-3456
Example 2 - Calling an Aruba Mobile from UK:
To call +297 593 7890 from the United Kingdom:
Dial 00-297-593-7890
Example 3 - Calling an Aruba Business from Australia:
To call +297 588 1234 from Australia (exit code 0011):
Dial 0011-297-588-1234
Example 4 - Using the + Symbol:
When dialing from mobile phones, you can replace exit codes with the + symbol:
Dial +297-582-3456 (long-press 0 to get +)
Important Notes
Aruba local numbers don't have leading zeros, so there's nothing to drop when dialing internationally. All Aruba numbers are 7 digits regardless of whether they're mobile or landline. Mobile numbers typically start with 56, 59, or 66, while landlines often begin with 58 or 52. Always verify the complete 7-digit number before dialing to ensure successful connection.
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Common Mistakes
When calling Aruba, these common mistakes can prevent your call from connecting:
1. Forgetting to drop the leading zero
If you have an Aruban number starting with 0, remove it when dialing internationally. The zero is only used for domestic calls within Aruba. From abroad, dial +297 followed by the remaining digits.
2. Using the wrong exit code
Many people forget that the exit code varies by country. While 011 works from the US/Canada, European countries use 00, and others differ. Alternatively, use the + symbol (press and hold 0 on mobile) which works universally.
3. Confusing the country code with an area code
Aruba doesn't use area codes—297 is the country code, not an area code. Simply dial +297 then the 7-digit local number directly.
4. Including unnecessary spaces or dashes
While spaces and dashes help readability when written, many phone systems don't recognize them. Dial the numbers consecutively: +297XXXXXXX.
5. Not accounting for time differences
Aruba operates on Atlantic Standard Time year-round. Check the time difference to avoid calling during inconvenient hours.
Cultural Etiquette
When making phone calls in Aruba, you'll find that locals blend Dutch formality with Caribbean warmth. Understanding local customs will help you communicate more effectively and respectfully.
Greetings and Tone
Start calls with "Bon dia" (good morning), "Bon tardi" (good afternoon), or "Bon nochi" (good evening) in Papiamento, the local language, before switching to English or Dutch. This shows cultural respect and is greatly appreciated.
Business vs. Personal Calls
Business calls should begin more formally, using titles and last names initially. However, Arubans are generally friendly, so conversations often become warmer quickly. Personal calls are typically casual and may include brief social pleasantries before getting to the point.
Timing Matters
Avoid calling during lunch hours (12:00-2:00 PM) when many businesses close. For personal calls, respect the siesta time and avoid calling before 8:00 AM or after 9:00 PM on weekdays.
Voice Messages
Leaving clear, concise voicemails is standard practice. State your name, reason for calling, and callback number. Don't be surprised if responses take a day—Arubans operate on "island time" and prefer face-to-face communication when possible.
Cultural Considerations
Arubans value personal connections, so don't rush conversations. Brief small talk about family or weather is normal and shows courtesy. Speaking too loudly is considered rude, so maintain a moderate, pleasant tone throughout your conversation.
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Emergency Numbers
Essential Emergency Numbers for Aruba:
- 911 - Universal Emergency Number (police, ambulance, fire)
- 100 - Police Department
- 911 or 115 - Ambulance Services
- 911 or 115 - Fire Department
- 913 - Coast Guard (marine emergencies)
All emergency numbers in Aruba are toll-free and accessible from both landlines and mobile phones, including international mobile phones. The universal 911 number connects you to all emergency services and is available 24/7 year-round.
English-speaking operators are readily available alongside Dutch and Papiamento speakers, making it convenient for tourists. When calling, clearly state your emergency, exact location, and contact information. For non-emergencies requiring police assistance, contact the local police station directly at +297-527-3300. Keep these numbers saved in your phone before traveling.
Useful Numbers
Directory Assistance & Information Services
- Domestic Directory Assistance: 118 - For local phone numbers and business listings
- International Operator: 121 - Assistance with overseas calls and international directory inquiries
Tourism Support
- Aruba Tourism Authority: +297-582-3777 - Travel information, attractions, and general tourist assistance
Embassy Contacts
- U.S. Consular Agency: +297-588-2900 - Consular services for American citizens
- Canadian Consulate: +297-582-2900 - Support for Canadian nationals
- Dutch Consulate: +297-583-4501 - Assistance for Dutch and EU citizens
Utility Services
- Water & Energy Company (WEB): 928 - Utilities information and service requests
- Airport Information: +297-524-2424 - Flight schedules and airport services
Transportation
- Taxi Dispatch: +297-582-2116 - Reliable taxi service throughout the island
Tips for Calling Aruba
When calling Aruba, keep in mind the island operates on Atlantic Standard Time (AST, UTC-4) year-round with no daylight saving changes. For international callers, early mornings or late afternoons typically offer the best connection quality and lower rates.
Business hours in Aruba generally run Monday through Friday, 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM, with many offices closing for lunch between noon and 2:00 PM. Avoid calling during major holidays including New Year's Day, Carnival Monday, National Anthem and Flag Day (March 18), King's Day (April 27), and Christmas.
For business calls, always schedule appointments in advance—Arubans appreciate punctuality and planning. Off-peak calling times (evenings after 7:00 PM and weekends) often feature reduced rates from most carriers.
To ensure clear communication, speak slowly and confirm important details. While Dutch and Papiamento are official languages, English is widely spoken in business settings. Have a backup communication method ready, such as email or messaging apps, in case connections drop. Test your equipment beforehand and consider using VoIP services for international calls to reduce costs while maintaining quality.
Frequently Asked Questions
The country code for Aruba is +297. You'll need to dial this code before the local phone number when making international calls to Aruba from anywhere in the world.
To call Aruba from your cell phone, dial your country's international exit code (like 011 from the US), then 297 (Aruba's country code), followed by the 7-digit local number. For example: 011-297-XXX-XXXX.
Aruba's local phone numbers don't use a leading zero, so there's nothing to drop. Simply dial +297 followed by the 7-digit local number to connect your call successfully.
The cheapest way to call Aruba is using ZippCall, which offers affordable pay-as-you-go international calling rates. With ZippCall, you can call from your web browser, iPhone, or Android device with no contracts, no subscriptions, and no hidden fees—just transparent, low-cost rates for calling Aruba.
In Aruba, dial 911 for all emergencies including police, fire, and ambulance services. This number is toll-free and available 24/7 from any phone on the island.
Yes! ZippCall allows you to make calls to Aruba directly from your web browser. Simply visit the ZippCall website, add credits to your account, and start calling—no downloads or special equipment required.
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