How to Call Senegal
Complete guide to dialing Senegal (country code +221)
Calling Senegal from abroad doesn't have to be complicated. Whether you're connecting with family, friends, or business contacts in Dakar or other cities, understanding the proper dialing process ensures your call goes through smoothly. This comprehensive guide walks you through everything you need to know about how to call Senegal, including step-by-step dialing instructions, international codes, and formatting requirements. We'll cover the most common mistakes people make when calling Senegal and how to avoid them, proper phone etiquette to respect local customs, and a helpful list of essential numbers you might need. By the end of this guide, you'll feel confident making international calls to Senegal from any country, saving time and avoiding frustration with incorrect dialing attempts.
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Quick Reference
Dialing Instructions
International Dialing Format Structure
To call Senegal from abroad, follow this structure: Exit Code + 221 + Local Number. The exit code varies by country, +221 is Senegal's country code, and the local number is typically 9 digits.
Dialing from Different Countries
From USA or Canada:
Dial 011 (exit code) + 221 + local number
- Example: 011-221-77-123-4567
From UK:
Dial 00 (exit code) + 221 + local number
- Example: 00-221-33-821-5678
From other countries:
Most countries use 00 as the exit code, though some differ. Alternatively, dial +221 directly from mobile phones, which automatically applies the correct exit code.
Specific Dialing Examples
Example 1 - Mobile Number (Senegal mobile numbers typically start with 7):
To call +221 77 123 4567 from USA: 011-221-77-123-4567
From UK: 00-221-77-123-4567
Example 2 - Dakar Landline (starts with 33):
To call +221 33 821 5678 from USA: 011-221-33-821-5678
From UK: 00-221-33-821-5678
Example 3 - Another Mobile (starting with 76):
To call +221 76 555 9876 from USA: 011-221-76-555-9876
From UK: 00-221-76-555-9876
Important Note About Leading Zeros
Senegalese local numbers do not use a leading zero when dialing domestically or internationally. If you see a number written as 077 123 4567 within Senegal, simply drop any leading zero and dial 77 123 4567 after the country code. The complete international format would be: 011-221-77-123-4567 (from USA).
Quick Tips
- Always verify the local number has 9 digits
- Mobile numbers commonly start with 76, 77, or 78
- Landlines in Dakar start with 33
- Use the + symbol on mobile phones for easier dialing across all countries
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Common Mistakes
When calling Senegal, avoid these common mistakes that can prevent your call from connecting:
1. Forgetting to drop the leading zero
Senegalese phone numbers start with 0 domestically, but you must remove it when dialing internationally. If the local number is 077 123 4567, dial +221 77 123 4567, not +221 077 123 4567.
2. Using the wrong exit code
Many people dial "011" (US exit code) when their country uses a different code. From the UK, use "00" instead. Alternatively, use "+" which works universally from mobile phones.
3. Confusing the country code with an area code
Senegal doesn't use area codes. The country code +221 is followed directly by the local number. Don't add extra digits thinking you need a regional code.
4. Dialing outdated 7-digit numbers
Senegal switched to 9-digit numbers years ago. If you have an old contact with only 7 digits, it won't work. Verify you have the current format.
5. Including incorrect spacing
While spaces don't affect connection, inconsistent formatting causes confusion when saving numbers. Use standard format: +221 XX XXX XXXX for clarity.
Cultural Etiquette
When making phone calls in Senegal, proper greetings are essential. Always begin with "Asalaam alaikum" (peace be upon you) or a French greeting like "Bonjour." Take time to ask about the person's health, family, and well-being before discussing your reason for calling. Rushing directly to business is considered rude.
For business calls, maintain a respectful and somewhat formal tone, especially with elders or superiors. Use titles like "Monsieur" or "Madame" unless invited to be more casual. Personal calls allow for warmer, more relaxed conversation, though respect remains important.
The best times to call are mid-morning (after 10 AM) or late afternoon (after 4 PM). Avoid calling during prayer times, particularly Friday afternoon prayers, and during midday hours when many people rest. Evening calls after 9 PM should be reserved for close friends and family.
Voice messages are commonly used in Senegal. If someone doesn't answer, leaving a brief message is appropriate and appreciated. However, expect that many people prefer calling back rather than responding to voicemail.
A unique cultural consideration is the concept of "teranga," Senegalese hospitality. This extends to phone conversations through patience, warmth, and genuine interest in the other person. Long goodbyes are normal—don't be surprised if ending a call takes several minutes with repeated well-wishes. Building relationships through conversation matters more than efficiency.
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Emergency Numbers
Police: 17
Fire Department: 18
Ambulance (SAMU): 1515
Gendarmerie (Rural Areas): 800 00 20 20
General Emergency Number: 112
These emergency numbers are accessible from both landlines and mobile phones throughout Senegal. Calls to these services are free of charge. The 112 number follows the European emergency standard and can be particularly useful for tourists.
Important Context: Most emergency operators primarily speak French and Wolof, with limited English availability. Service quality and response times vary significantly between urban areas like Dakar and rural regions. In major cities, emergency services operate 24/7, but response times can be delayed due to traffic conditions. It's advisable to have a French-speaking contact available when calling, or consider contacting your embassy for assistance in serious emergencies.
Useful Numbers
Directory Assistance & Information Services
- 12: Directory assistance for finding local phone numbers and addresses throughout Senegal
International Operator
- 00: International operator for assistance with overseas calls and collect calls
Tourist Information
- Senegal Tourism Office: +221 33 849 95 92 - General tourism inquiries and visitor assistance
Embassy Contacts
- U.S. Embassy Dakar: +221 33 879 4000
- British Embassy: +221 33 823 7392
- Canadian Embassy: +221 33 889 4700
Useful Services
- Airports information (Dakar): +221 33 865 5050
- Senelec (electricity): 33 839 3939
- SDE (water): 800 00 11 11
- Time service: 15
- Weather information: +221 33 823 7160
Transport
- Dakar Dem Dikk (bus service): +221 33 825 5555
- Petit Train de Banlieue: +221 77 254 7070
Tips for Calling Senegal
When calling Senegal (UTC+0, same as GMT), timing is crucial for successful connections. The country doesn't observe daylight saving time, making scheduling straightforward year-round.
For business calls, aim for 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM local time, Monday through Friday. Schedule important calls in advance, as Senegalese business culture values punctuality and preparation. Avoid calling during Friday prayers (12:00-2:00 PM) when many businesses pause operations.
Key holidays to avoid include Independence Day (April 4), Labor Day (May 1), and major Islamic holidays like Eid al-Fitr and Eid al-Adha, which shift annually based on the lunar calendar.
For personal calls, late morning or early evening works best, avoiding meal times around 1:00-3:00 PM and after 10:00 PM. Off-peak calling rates typically apply during weekends and after 7:00 PM.
To ensure clear communication, speak slowly and verify important details—connection quality can vary. Many Senegalese speak French and Wolof, so confirm language preferences beforehand. Consider using video calls through apps when possible, as internet-based services often provide more reliable connections than traditional phone lines.
Frequently Asked Questions
The country code for Senegal is +221. You need to dial this code before the local phone number when making international calls to Senegal from anywhere in the world.
To dial Senegal from your cell phone, start with + (or your country's international access code), then dial 221 (Senegal's country code), followed by the 9-digit local phone number. For example: +221-XX-XXX-XXXX.
Senegal's phone numbers don't typically start with a leading zero. Simply dial +221 followed by the 9-digit local number. If you see a zero at the beginning, it's usually omitted for international calls.
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In Senegal, the key emergency numbers are: 17 for Police, 18 for Fire Department, and 15 for Medical Emergency (SAMU). These numbers can be dialed directly within Senegal for urgent assistance.
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