How to Call Gambia
Complete guide to dialing Gambia (country code +220)
Staying connected with friends, family, or business contacts in Gambia is easier than you might think. Whether you're planning your first call or looking to avoid common dialing mistakes, understanding how to call Gambia properly will save you time and frustration. This comprehensive guide walks you through everything you need to know about calling Gambia, from the correct country code and area codes to step-by-step dialing instructions. We'll cover the most frequent errors people make when placing international calls, share essential phone etiquette tips to ensure smooth conversations, and provide a helpful list of important numbers you might need. By the end of this guide, you'll feel confident making calls to Gambia from anywhere in the world.
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Quick Reference
Dialing Instructions
International Dialing Format Structure
To call Gambia from anywhere in the world, you need to follow this structure: Exit Code + 220 + Local Phone Number. The exit code varies by country, while +220 is Gambia's country code that remains constant for all international calls.
Step-by-Step Dialing Instructions
From the United States:
- Dial 011 (US exit code)
- Dial 220 (Gambia country code)
- Dial the local number
From the United Kingdom:
- Dial 00 (UK exit code)
- Dial 220 (Gambia country code)
- Dial the local number
From Other Countries:
Replace the exit code with your country's international access code (commonly 00 in most European and African nations, or + on mobile phones).
Important Note About Leading Zeros
Gambian phone numbers do not typically use leading zeros in their local format. When dialing internationally, simply add the country code directly before the local number without dropping any digits.
Specific Dialing Examples
Example 1 - Calling a Gambian Mobile Number (7 digits):
- From USA: 011-220-XXX-XXXX
- From UK: 00-220-XXX-XXXX
- From mobile anywhere: +220-XXX-XXXX
Example 2 - Calling a Banjul Landline:
To call +220 422 8000 from USA: dial 011-220-422-8000
From UK: dial 00-220-422-8000
Example 3 - Calling a Gambian Mobile Starting with 3:
To call +220 301 2345 from USA: dial 011-220-301-2345
From UK: dial 00-220-301-2345
Example 4 - Using the Plus (+) Format:
On mobile devices, press and hold 0 to generate the + symbol, then dial: +220-XXX-XXXX. This automatically uses your country's exit code.
Quick Reference
Most Gambian numbers are 7 digits long. Mobile numbers typically start with 2, 3, 6, or 7, while landlines vary by region.
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Common Mistakes
When calling Gambia, avoid these common dialing errors:
1. Forgetting to drop the leading zero
Gambian phone numbers often appear with a leading zero (like 0301 2345), but you must remove it when dialing internationally. The zero is only for domestic calls within Gambia. Dial +220 followed by the number without the zero.
2. Using the wrong exit code
Many callers forget their country's exit code. Instead of +220, dial your exit code first (011 from the US/Canada, 00 from most European countries), then 220. Alternatively, use the + symbol, which works universally on mobile phones.
3. Confusing the country code with an area code
Unlike larger countries, Gambia doesn't use area codes. The +220 is the country code, and all local numbers follow directly after it. Don't add extra digits thinking you need a city code.
4. Adding unnecessary spaces or dashes
While formatting helps readability, adding spaces incorrectly can cause dialing errors on some systems. The correct format is: +220-XXX-XXXX, where X represents the 7-digit local number.
5. Not verifying number length
Gambian mobile and landline numbers are typically 7 digits after the country code. If your number is shorter or longer, double-check its accuracy.
Cultural Etiquette
In Gambia, phone etiquette reflects the country's warm and respectful culture. Understanding these customs helps build strong relationships, whether for business or personal connections.
Greetings Matter
Always begin calls with proper greetings. Ask "How are you?" and inquire about family before discussing your main purpose. Rushing immediately into business is considered rude. Gambians value these social exchanges, which may last several minutes.
Formal vs. Casual Approach
Use formal language when calling elders, business contacts, or people you don't know well. Address them with titles like "Mr.," "Mrs.," or professional designations. With friends and younger relatives, a more relaxed tone is acceptable.
Timing Your Calls
Avoid calling during prayer times, particularly Friday afternoons when many attend mosque. Early mornings before 9 AM and late evenings after 9 PM should be reserved for emergencies. Business calls work best between 10 AM and 5 PM.
Business vs. Personal Calls
Business calls still require personal greetings but can be somewhat shorter. However, never skip the preliminary courtesies entirely, as relationship-building is essential in Gambian business culture.
Voice Messages
Leaving voicemails is less common, as many prefer calling back when they see a missed call. If you leave a message, keep it brief and clear.
Cultural Considerations
Patience is vital. Gambians often take time to respond thoughtfully. Speaking loudly or impatiently is considered disrespectful and may damage relationships.
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Emergency Numbers
In Gambia, the following emergency numbers are essential to keep on hand:
- Police: 117
- Fire Department: 118
- Ambulance: 116
- General Emergency Hotline: 112 (connects to all emergency services)
These numbers are accessible from both landlines and mobile phones throughout the country. The 112 emergency hotline follows the international standard and can be dialed free of charge from any network.
Important Context: English is Gambia's official language, so operators typically speak English. However, response times may vary significantly between urban areas like Banjul and rural regions. Emergency services operate 24/7, though infrastructure and resources can be limited. It's advisable to also have contact information for your embassy and private medical facilities, as private ambulance services may offer faster response times in some situations.
Useful Numbers
Directory Assistance & Information Services
- 151: National directory enquiries for local phone numbers
- 191: International directory assistance
Tourist Information
- Gambia Tourism Authority: +220 446 2491/2 - Travel information, guidance, and complaints
International Services
- 100: International operator for assisted calls and billing inquiries
Key Embassy Contacts
- British High Commission: +220 449 4133
- US Embassy: +220 439 2856
- French Embassy: +220 449 2121
Other Useful Numbers
- Gambia Telecommunications Company (Gamtel): 124 - Technical support and service inquiries
- Banjul International Airport: +220 447 2831
- Serrekunda Hospital: +220 437 3233
Banking Helplines
Most major banks operate customer service lines during business hours. Contact your specific bank for their dedicated helpline number.
Keep these numbers saved in your phone for convenient access throughout your stay.
Tips for Calling Gambia
When calling Gambia (UTC+0), timing is crucial for successful connections. The country operates on Greenwich Mean Time year-round without daylight saving changes.
Best Times to Call
For business calls, aim for 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM local time, Monday through Friday. Government offices typically close earlier, around 3:00 PM. Avoid calling during Friday prayers (1:00-3:00 PM) when many businesses pause operations.
Scheduling Considerations
Always schedule business calls in advance via email or WhatsApp, which is widely used in Gambia. This shows respect and ensures availability. For international callers, early morning Gambian time often means better connection quality during off-peak network hours.
Days to Avoid
Steer clear of major holidays including Independence Day (February 18), Eid al-Fitr, Eid al-Adha, and the Islamic New Year, which follow the lunar calendar.
Communication Tips
Speak clearly and slightly slower than usual, as connections may experience delays. Confirm important details via text after calls. Mobile networks are more reliable than landlines, and having backup contact numbers helps ensure you reach your party despite occasional network challenges.
Frequently Asked Questions
The country code for Gambia is +220. You'll need to dial this code before the local phone number when making international calls to Gambia from anywhere in the world.
To dial Gambia from your cell phone, start with + (or your country's international access code), then dial 220 (Gambia's country code), followed by the 7-digit local number. For example: +220 XXX XXXX.
Gambian phone numbers don't typically use a leading zero in their local format. Simply dial +220 followed by the 7-digit local number without adding or removing any digits.
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In Gambia, the main emergency numbers are: 117 for Police, 116 for Fire Service, and 118 for Ambulance services. Keep these numbers handy when traveling or residing in Gambia.
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