How to Call Mauritania
Complete guide to dialing Mauritania (country code +222)
Looking to connect with someone in Mauritania? Learning how to call Mauritania 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 every time. This comprehensive guide walks you through everything you need to know about calling Mauritania from anywhere in the world. We'll cover step-by-step dialing instructions, highlight common mistakes that could prevent your call from connecting, explain local phone etiquette to help you make a positive impression, and provide useful numbers you might need during your stay or correspondence. By the end of this guide, you'll feel confident making international calls to Mauritania without any hassle or confusion.
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Quick Reference
Dialing Instructions
International Dialing Format for Mauritania
To call Mauritania (country code +222), you need to understand the international dialing structure: Exit Code + 222 + Local Number. The exit code varies by country, while Mauritania's country code remains constant.
Step-by-Step Dialing Instructions
1. From the United States:
Dial 011 (US exit code) + 222 + local number
Example for Nouakchott landline: 011-222-45-25-XXXX
Example for mobile number: 011-222-22-XX-XXXX
2. From the United Kingdom:
Dial 00 (UK exit code) + 222 + local number
Example for landline: 00-222-45-25-XXXX
Example for mobile: 00-222-36-XX-XXXX
3. From Other Countries:
Most countries use 00 as their exit code. Replace it accordingly:
- Canada: 011-222-XX-XX-XXXX
- Australia: 0011-222-XX-XX-XXXX
- From mobile phones worldwide: +222-XX-XX-XXXX (the + symbol replaces any exit code)
Understanding Mauritanian Phone Numbers
Mauritanian numbers consist of 8 digits total. Mobile numbers typically start with 22, 32, 33, 36, or 44, while landlines begin with area codes like 45 (Nouakchott) or 46 (Nouadhibou).
Important: Leading Zero Rule
Mauritanian numbers do not use a leading zero. When dialing internationally, simply add the country code directly to the 8-digit local number.
Specific Examples by Number Type
Calling a Nouakchott landline (45-25-XXXX) from USA:
011-222-45-25-XXXX
Calling a mobile number (22-XX-XXXX) from UK:
00-222-22-XX-XXXX
Calling a Nouadhibou landline (46-XX-XXXX) from any mobile:
+222-46-XX-XXXX
When using smartphones, the + prefix method works universally, automatically applying the correct exit code for your location. This makes international calling to Mauritania straightforward regardless of your originating country.
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Common Mistakes
When calling Mauritania, avoid these common dialing mistakes:
1. Forgetting to drop the leading zero
Mauritanian phone numbers often appear with a leading zero domestically (e.g., 022 12 34 56). When dialing internationally, you must remove this zero. From abroad, dial +222 22 12 34 56, not +222 022 12 34 56.
2. Using the wrong exit code
Many people forget that exit codes vary by country. While 011 works from the US/Canada, Europeans use 00, and other countries differ. Alternatively, use the "+" symbol, which works universally on mobile phones.
3. Confusing the country code with area codes
Mauritania uses +222 as its country code for all regions. There are no separate area codes—the remaining 8 digits form the local number. Don't add extra digits thinking you need an area code.
4. Incorrect spacing or formatting
Adding random spaces or hyphens can cause confusion. Follow the format: +222 XX XX XX XX for clarity.
5. Not accounting for time differences
Mauritania operates on GMT, so check the time difference before calling to avoid disturbing recipients during late hours.
Cultural Etiquette
In Mauritania, phone etiquette reflects the country's Islamic traditions and emphasis on respect and hospitality. Understanding these customs helps build stronger relationships.
Always begin phone calls with proper Islamic greetings. "As-salaam alaikum" (peace be upon you) is essential, followed by inquiries about the person's health and family. Rushing directly to business matters is considered impolite. Expect several minutes of courteous exchanges before discussing your main purpose.
For business calls, maintain formality and use titles when addressing someone, especially elders or people in authority. French and Arabic are common languages for professional communications. Personal calls can be more relaxed but should still show respect, particularly when speaking with older relatives.
The best times to call are mid-morning or late afternoon. Avoid calling during prayer times, which occur five times daily, or during lunch hours (1-3 PM). Evening calls to personal contacts are generally acceptable, but avoid calling too late.
Mauritanians value direct conversation over voice messages. If someone cannot answer, they typically prefer you call back rather than leave a lengthy voicemail. Brief messages are acceptable, but expect return calls for detailed discussions.
Remember that relationships come before transactions in Mauritanian culture. Taking time for proper greetings and personal conversation demonstrates respect and sincerity. Patience during phone interactions shows cultural awareness and will be greatly appreciated by your Mauritanian contacts.
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Emergency Numbers
Essential Emergency Numbers:
- Police: 17
- Fire Department: 18
- Ambulance/Medical Emergency: 101
- Gendarmerie (Rural Police): 116
Important Information:
These emergency numbers are accessible from both landlines and mobile phones throughout Mauritania. Calls to emergency services are free of charge. However, it's crucial to note that operators primarily speak French and Arabic, with limited English availability. Service coverage and response times can vary significantly between urban areas like Nouakchott and rural regions.
For medical emergencies requiring immediate attention, private clinics may offer faster response than public services. It's advisable to keep contact details of your country's embassy or consulate readily available. The emergency services operate 24/7, though infrastructure limitations may affect response efficiency, particularly outside major cities.
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
- Mauritanian Office of Tourism: +222 4529 0280 (guidance on attractions, accommodations, and travel permits)
Embassy Contacts
- U.S. Embassy Nouakchott: +222 4525 2660
- French Embassy: +222 4529 9100
- British Embassy (consular services via Morocco): +212 537 633 333
Utility Services
- SOMELEC (Electricity): 115
- SNDE (Water): 116
Transportation
- Nouakchott-Oumtounsy International Airport: +222 4524 5754
Banking
- Banque Centrale de Mauritanie: +222 4525 2206
Keep these numbers saved in your phone, as internet connectivity may be limited in remote areas. Most services operate in French and Arabic.
Tips for Calling Mauritania
When calling Mauritania (UTC+0), timing is crucial for successful connections. The country operates on Greenwich Mean Time year-round with no daylight saving changes.
For business calls, aim for 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM local time, Monday through Thursday. Friday is the weekly holy day, making it unsuitable for business matters. Many offices close early on Thursdays and remain closed through Friday afternoon.
Schedule important business calls in advance via email to ensure availability and demonstrate professionalism. Avoid calling during Ramadan's fasting hours (dawn to sunset), when business activity significantly slows. Plan around major Islamic holidays including Eid al-Fitr and Eid al-Adha.
Personal calls are best made during evening hours (6:00 PM - 9:00 PM) when connection quality typically improves and rates may be lower.
For clearer communication, speak slowly and distinctly, as French and Arabic are primary languages. Confirm call details beforehand, including date, time, and agenda. Keep backup contact methods ready, as connectivity can be unreliable. Using internet-based calling apps often provides better quality than traditional phone lines when stable internet is available.
Frequently Asked Questions
The country code for Mauritania is +222. You need to dial this code before the local phone number when making international calls to Mauritania from anywhere in the world.
To dial Mauritania from your cell phone, dial + (or your country's international access code), then 222 (Mauritania's country code), followed by the 8-digit local phone number. For example: +222-XXXX-XXXX.
Mauritanian phone numbers don't typically use a leading zero in their local format. Simply dial +222 followed by the 8-digit phone number you're trying to reach without adding or removing any digits.
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In Mauritania, the main emergency numbers are: 17 for Police, 18 for Fire Services, and local hospitals can be reached directly. Keep these numbers saved when traveling to Mauritania for quick access during emergencies.
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