How to Call Chad
Complete guide to dialing Chad (country code +235)
Planning to make a phone call to Chad? Whether you're contacting family, friends, or business associates, understanding the proper dialing procedures is essential for successfully connecting with this Central African nation. Many people struggle with international calling, often making simple mistakes that prevent their calls from going through. This comprehensive guide on how to call Chad will walk you through everything you need to know about calling Chad from anywhere in the world. We'll cover step-by-step dialing instructions, highlight common mistakes to avoid, share important phone etiquette tips for communicating with Chadian contacts, and provide a list of useful numbers including emergency services and helpful resources. By following these straightforward instructions, you'll be confidently placing calls to Chad in no time.
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Quick Reference
Dialing Instructions
International Dialing Format to Chad
To call Chad from abroad, follow this structure: Exit Code + 235 + Local Number (without leading zero)
Step-by-Step Dialing Instructions
1. Start with your country's exit code:
- USA/Canada: 011
- UK: 00
- Australia: 0011
- Most European countries: 00
2. Dial Chad's country code: 235
3. Drop the leading zero from the local Chad number if present, then dial the remaining digits.
4. Complete the local number (typically 7-8 digits)
Practical Examples
Example 1: Calling a Chad mobile number (66123456) from USA
Dial: 011-235-66-12-34-56
Example 2: Calling a N'Djamena landline (22501234) from UK
Dial: 00-235-22-50-12-34
Example 3: Calling a Chad mobile (77654321) from Australia
Dial: 0011-235-77-65-43-21
Example 4: Calling from other countries (using 00 exit code)
For a landline (22608888): 00-235-22-60-88-88
Mobile vs. Landline Numbers in Chad
- Mobile numbers typically start with 6, 7, or 9
- Landline numbers usually begin with 22 (N'Djamena) or other two-digit area codes
- All numbers follow the same dialing format—no special prefixes needed
Important Tips
When dialing Chad, remember that local numbers don't use a leading zero in their standard format. If you encounter a number written with a zero (like 022501234), simply remove it before dialing internationally.
Alternative dialing: Many smartphones allow you to use the + symbol instead of exit codes. Simply dial +235 followed by the local number. For example: +235-66-12-34-56
This universal format works from any country, making it the simplest method for international calls to Chad.
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Common Mistakes
When calling Chad, avoiding these common mistakes will ensure your call connects successfully:
Forgetting to drop the leading zero: Chad's local phone numbers often start with 0, but you must remove it when dialing internationally. For example, if the local number is 066 12 34 56, dial +235 66 12 34 56 instead.
Using the wrong exit code: Different countries have different exit codes (011 for the US, 00 for most of Europe). Many people forget to check their country's specific code. To avoid confusion, use the + symbol instead, which works universally from mobile phones.
Confusing the country code with an area code: Chad uses +235 as its country code for all regions. There are no additional area codes needed, unlike many larger countries. Simply dial +235 followed by the local number.
Including spaces incorrectly: While spaces don't affect connectivity, inconsistent formatting causes confusion when saving contacts. Follow the standard format: +235 XX XX XX XX for eight-digit numbers.
Not verifying number length: Chad mobile numbers are typically eight digits. If you have fewer or more digits, double-check the number before dialing to avoid connection failures.
Cultural Etiquette
When making phone calls in Chad, understanding local customs helps build positive relationships. French and Arabic are the main languages for formal communications, while local languages are common for personal conversations.
Greetings Matter
Always begin calls with proper greetings. Ask about the person's well-being and family before discussing your purpose. Rushing directly to business is considered rude. A typical greeting might be "Salaam Aleikum" (Arabic) or "Bonjour" (French), followed by inquiries about health.
Timing Your Calls
Avoid calling during prayer times, especially on Fridays, as Chad has a significant Muslim population. The best times are mid-morning or late afternoon. Evening calls should be reserved for close friends or family, as this is family time.
Formal or Casual Approach
Business calls require formality. Use titles like "Monsieur" or "Madame" unless invited otherwise. Personal calls can be more relaxed but should still show respect, especially when speaking with elders.
Voice Messages
Keep voice messages brief and clear. State your name, purpose, and contact information. Many Chadians prefer speaking directly rather than leaving messages, so be prepared to call back multiple times.
Cultural Considerations
Speaking loudly is acceptable and shows engagement rather than anger. Allow for longer pauses in conversation, as rushing can seem disrespectful. Building rapport takes precedence over efficiency, so patience is essential when communicating by phone in Chad.
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Emergency Numbers
Police: 17
Fire Department: 18
Gendarmerie (Rural Police): 16
Chad does not have a centralized ambulance service. Medical emergencies typically require contacting local hospitals directly or arranging private transport to the nearest medical facility.
Important Notes:
These emergency numbers function from both landlines and mobile phones and are free to call. However, service availability can be unreliable, particularly outside N'Djamena, the capital city. Response times vary significantly depending on location, with rural areas experiencing substantial delays.
French and Arabic are the primary languages used by operators; English-speaking assistance is rarely available. Due to limited emergency infrastructure, expatriates and travelers should maintain contact information for their embassy, local hospitals, and private security services. Consider arranging emergency evacuation insurance before traveling to Chad.
Useful Numbers
Directory Assistance & Information Services
- Dial 12 for national directory assistance to locate phone numbers and addresses within Chad.
International Operator
- Contact 10 for international operator assistance when placing calls abroad or requiring help with overseas connections.
Tourist Information
- Ministry of Tourism: +235 22 52 55 76 for travel inquiries and tourist guidance.
Embassy Contacts
- US Embassy N'Djamena: +235 22 51 70 09
- French Embassy: +235 22 52 25 75
- British interests handled through French Embassy
Other Helpful Services
- Police (non-emergency): +235 22 51 26 64
- Chadian Red Cross: +235 22 51 41 27
- N'Djamena International Airport: +235 22 52 32 81
Note: Mobile coverage varies significantly outside N'Djamena. Keep important numbers written down as backup.
Tips for Calling Chad
When calling Chad, remember the country operates on West Africa Time (UTC+1). For international calls, early mornings (8-10 AM local time) and late afternoons (4-6 PM) typically yield better connection rates. Avoid calling during midday heat when many businesses close for extended lunch breaks.
Business hours generally run from 7:30 AM to 3:30 PM, Monday through Thursday, with shortened Friday hours due to prayer times. Always schedule business calls in advance, as drop-in communication is less common in professional settings. Email or WhatsApp ahead to confirm availability.
Avoid calling during Ramadan's fasting hours or on major Islamic holidays like Eid al-Fitr and Eid al-Adha. National holidays including Independence Day (August 11) should also be avoided for business matters.
For clearer communication, speak slowly and confirm details multiple times, as connections can be inconsistent. French is the official language, so having a translator ready is advisable if you're not fluent. Mobile networks are more reliable than landlines. Keep calls concise due to potential connectivity issues, and always have a backup communication method like email ready.
Frequently Asked Questions
The country code for Chad is +235. You need to dial this code before the local phone number when making international calls to Chad from anywhere in the world. Always start with your country's international access code, followed by 235.
To dial Chad from your cell phone, start by entering the + symbol (usually by holding the 0 key), then dial 235 (Chad's country code), followed by the local phone number. For example: +235-XX-XX-XX-XX.
Yes, if the local Chad phone number starts with a zero, you should drop it when dialing internationally. After entering +235, dial the remaining digits of the phone number without the leading zero.
The cheapest way to call Chad 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 Chad.
In Chad, the main emergency number for police is 17. However, emergency services infrastructure may be limited in some areas. It's advisable to have contact information for your embassy and local medical facilities when traveling in Chad.
Yes, you can call Chad directly from your web browser using ZippCall. Simply visit the ZippCall website, enter the Chad phone number with the +235 country code, and start calling without needing to download any software or apps.
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