How to Call Djibouti
Complete guide to dialing Djibouti (country code +253)
Planning to connect with someone in East Africa? Learning how to call Djibouti doesn't have to be complicated. Whether you're reaching out to family, friends, or business contacts, understanding the proper dialing process ensures your call goes through smoothly the first time. This comprehensive guide walks you through everything you need to know about calling Djibouti from anywhere in the world. We'll cover step-by-step dialing instructions, highlight common mistakes that could prevent your call from connecting, share essential phone etiquette tips to help you make a great impression, and provide a list of useful emergency and service numbers you might need. By the end of this guide, you'll feel confident making international calls to Djibouti without any hassle or confusion.
On This Page
Quick Reference
Dialing Instructions
International Dialing Format to Djibouti
When calling Djibouti (country code +253), follow this standard structure: Exit Code + 253 + Local Number. The exit code varies by country, while Djibouti's country code remains constant at 253.
Step-by-Step Dialing Instructions
1. From the United States:
Dial 011 (US exit code) + 253 + local number
Example 1 - Djibouti landline: To call +253 21 35 20 95, dial 011-253-21-35-20-95
Example 2 - Djibouti mobile: To call +253 77 83 45 67, dial 011-253-77-83-45-67
2. From the United Kingdom:
Dial 00 (UK exit code) + 253 + local number
Example 3 - Djibouti landline: To call +253 21 45 78 90, dial 00-253-21-45-78-90
3. From Other Countries:
Replace the exit code with your country's specific code (commonly 00 for most European, Asian, and African nations) + 253 + local number.
From Australia: Use 0011-253-XX-XX-XX-XX
From Canada: Use 011-253-XX-XX-XX-XX (same as USA)
Important Note About Leading Zeros
Djibouti phone numbers do not use leading zeros in their local format, so you won't need to drop any zero when dialing internationally. Simply add your exit code and 253 before the complete local number as displayed.
Mobile vs. Landline Numbers
Landline numbers in Djibouti typically start with 21
Mobile numbers usually begin with 77 or 78
Both follow the same dialing format internationally—just add your exit code + 253 before the full number.
Quick Reference
Dialing format: Your country's exit code + 253 + 8-digit local number
From mobile phones: You can often replace the exit code with + symbol
Example: +253-77-83-45-67
The Easy Way with ZippCall
Don't want to memorize exit codes, country codes, and dialing formats? With ZippCall, you don't have to.
Simply select "Djibouti" from the country list, enter the local phone number exactly as you see it, and ZippCall automatically handles all the international dialing codes for you. No confusion, no mistakes—just easy calling.
Join 7,744 users who choose ZippCall for simple international calling.
Common Mistakes
When calling Djibouti, avoid these common mistakes that can prevent your call from connecting:
1. Forgetting to drop the leading zero
Djibouti phone numbers often appear with a leading zero domestically (like 077-XX-XX-XX). When calling internationally, always remove this zero. Dial +253 followed by the remaining digits only.
2. Using the wrong exit code
Many callers use incorrect exit codes for their country. Instead of memorizing codes (011 for US, 00 for Europe), use the universal "+" symbol, which works from any mobile phone worldwide.
3. Confusing the country code with an area code
Djibouti uses +253 as its country code for all calls. There are no additional area codes within Djibouti, so don't add extra digits thinking you need one.
4. Adding unnecessary spaces or hyphens
While formatting like +253-77-XX-XX-XX helps readability, your phone only needs the numbers. Ensure spaces don't create gaps that confuse your dialing system.
5. Not verifying the number length
Djibouti numbers are typically 8 digits after the country code. If you have more or fewer, double-check the number before dialing.
Cultural Etiquette
When making phone calls in Djibouti, understanding local customs helps build respectful relationships. The country's communication style reflects its blend of African, Arab, and French influences.
Greetings Matter
Always begin calls with proper greetings. A simple "Assalamu alaikum" (peace be upon you) is widely appreciated, followed by inquiries about the person's health and family. Rushing straight to business is considered impolite.
Formality Levels
Business calls require formal language, especially when addressing elders or professionals. Use titles like "Monsieur" or "Madame" unless invited to be casual. Personal calls with friends allow more relaxed conversation, but maintain respectfulness.
Timing Considerations
Avoid calling during prayer times, particularly Friday midday prayers. Early mornings before 8 AM and late evenings after 9 PM are generally inappropriate. Business hours typically run from 7:30 AM to 12:30 PM and 4 PM to 6 PM due to the afternoon heat.
Voice Messages
Leaving voicemails is acceptable, but many Djiboutians prefer callback notifications. Keep messages brief and clear, stating your name and purpose.
Cultural Sensitivities
Patience is valued—conversations may seem lengthy by Western standards, but relationship-building is essential. Speaking too loudly can be perceived as aggressive, while a moderate, calm tone demonstrates respect.
Language Flexibility
While French and Arabic are official languages, many speak Somali and Afar. Starting in French is usually safe for formal situations, but be prepared to switch languages if needed.
Ready to call Djibouti?
ZippCall lets you make cheap international calls to Djibouti from any device. No contracts, no hidden fees—just simple pay-as-you-go rates.
Join 7,744 users making affordable international calls with ZippCall.
Emergency Numbers
In Djibouti, the following emergency numbers are essential for travelers and residents:
- Police: 17
- Fire Department: 18
- Ambulance/Medical Emergency: 19
- Gendarmerie (Military Police): 17
These emergency numbers are operational 24/7 and can be dialed from both landlines and mobile phones free of charge. However, it's important to note that French and Arabic are the primary languages used by operators, with limited English availability. Consider having a French-speaking contact assist with calls if needed.
For serious medical emergencies, many expats prefer contacting their embassy directly, as medical facilities in Djibouti may be limited compared to Western standards. The French military hospital (Bouffard Hospital) provides higher-standard care but requires prior authorization except in life-threatening situations. Keep your embassy contact information readily accessible.
Useful Numbers
Directory Assistance & Information Services
- 12: Directory inquiries for local and national numbers
International Services
- 00: International operator for assistance with overseas calls
Tourist Information
- Djibouti Tourism Office: +253 21 35 28 00 (general inquiries and visitor guidance)
Embassy Contacts
- US Embassy: +253 21 45 30 00
- French Embassy: +253 21 35 09 63
- Ethiopian Embassy: +253 21 35 06 18
- British Consulate (handled through Addis Ababa): +251 11 617 0000
Utilities & Services
- Electricité de Djibouti (EDD): 1010 (electricity issues)
- ONEAD: 1020 (water services)
- Djibouti Telecom: 1012 (telecommunications support)
Medical Non-Emergency
- Peltier Hospital: +253 21 35 20 31
- Bouffard Hospital: +253 21 35 22 31
Keep these numbers accessible during your stay for convenient assistance.
Tips for Calling Djibouti
When calling Djibouti (UTC+3), plan your calls carefully to ensure you reach contacts during appropriate hours. Business hours typically run from 7:30 AM to 1:00 PM and 4:00 PM to 6:00 PM, Saturday through Thursday, with Friday being the weekly day of rest.
For international callers, early morning or late afternoon in Djibouti often works best, avoiding the midday break. If calling from North America, late evening your time corresponds to Djibouti's morning business hours. European callers should aim for mid-morning to early afternoon.
Always schedule business calls in advance via email to confirm availability and demonstrate professionalism. This is particularly important given the time difference and cultural expectations.
Avoid calling during Ramadan's fasting hours (dawn to sunset), as productivity shifts to evening hours. Major Islamic holidays like Eid al-Fitr and Eid al-Adha warrant rescheduling. French Independence Day (June 27) and Djibouti Independence Day (June 27) are also public holidays.
For clearer communication, speak slowly and confirm important details via follow-up email, as connections can occasionally be unreliable. French and Arabic are official languages, though many business professionals speak English.
Frequently Asked Questions
The country code for Djibouti is +253. You need to dial this code before the local phone number when making international calls to Djibouti from anywhere in the world.
To call Djibouti from your cell phone, dial + (or your country's international access code), then 253 (Djibouti's country code), followed by the local phone number. For example: +253-XX-XX-XX-XX.
Djibouti phone numbers typically don't use a leading zero in their local format. Simply dial +253 followed by the 6-digit local number. If you see a zero, it's safe to omit it when dialing internationally.
The cheapest way to call Djibouti 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 Djibouti.
In Djibouti, the main emergency numbers are: Police - 17, Fire Department - 18, and Medical Emergency/Ambulance - 19. These numbers can be dialed directly within Djibouti for emergency assistance.
Yes! ZippCall allows you to make calls to Djibouti directly from your web browser. Simply visit ZippCall, add credit to your account, and start calling Djibouti without any software downloads or installations required.
Start Calling Djibouti Today
Now that you know how to dial, make cheap calls to Djibouti with ZippCall's crystal-clear connections and unbeatable rates.
Join7,744users who have made13,437minutes of calls in the last 7 days.
View rates for calling Djibouti