How to Call South Sudan
Complete guide to dialing South Sudan (country code +211)
Planning to make a phone call to South Sudan? Whether you're connecting with family, coordinating business, or reaching out to friends, understanding the proper dialing process is essential. This comprehensive guide on how to call South Sudan will walk you through everything you need to know for successful international calling. We'll cover step-by-step dialing instructions, including country codes and area codes, so you can connect without confusion. You'll also learn about common mistakes people make when calling South Sudan and how to avoid them. We've included helpful tips on local phone etiquette to ensure your conversations go smoothly, plus a list of useful emergency and service numbers you might need. By the end of this guide, you'll be confidently calling South Sudan like a pro.
On This Page
Quick Reference
Dialing Instructions
International Dialing Format Structure
To call South Sudan (country code +211), follow this format: Exit Code + 211 + Local Number. The exit code varies by country, while South Sudan's country code remains constant at 211.
Step-by-Step Dialing Instructions
From the United States:
- Dial 011 (US exit code)
- Dial 211 (South Sudan country code)
- Dial the local number without the leading zero
From the United Kingdom:
- Dial 00 (UK exit code)
- Dial 211 (South Sudan country code)
- Dial the local number without the leading zero
From Other Countries:
Replace the exit code with your country's international access code (commonly 00 or 011), then add 211 and the local number.
Important: Dropping the Leading Zero
South Sudanese phone numbers often start with 0 when dialed domestically. Always remove this leading zero when calling internationally. For example, if a local number is 0912 345 678, dial only 912 345 678 after the country code.
Specific Dialing Examples
Example 1 - Mobile Number from USA:
To call +211 912 345 678 from the USA: 011-211-912-345-678
Example 2 - Mobile Number from UK:
To call +211 923 456 789 from the UK: 00-211-923-456-789
Example 3 - Juba Landline from USA:
To call +211 18 123 4567 from the USA: 011-211-18-123-4567
(Note: Juba landlines typically start with 18)
Example 4 - Mobile Number from Australia:
To call +211 955 678 901 from Australia: 0011-211-955-678-901
(Australia's exit code is 0011)
Quick Reference
- US callers: 011-211-[local number]
- UK callers: 00-211-[local number]
- Mobile prefix: Most South Sudanese mobiles start with 9
- Remember: Always drop the leading 0 from South Sudanese numbers when dialing internationally
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 "South Sudan" 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 7,770 users who choose ZippCall for simple international calling.
Common Mistakes
When calling South Sudan, avoid these common mistakes that can prevent your call from connecting:
1. Forgetting to drop the leading zero
South Sudanese phone numbers often start with 0 domestically, but you must remove this zero when dialing internationally. If the local number is 0912 345 678, dial +211 912 345 678, not +211 0912 345 678.
2. Using the wrong exit code
Many callers use their own country's exit code incorrectly. Instead of remembering various exit codes (011 for US, 00 for Europe), simply use the + symbol, which works universally on mobile phones.
3. Confusing the country code with area codes
South Sudan's country code is +211. Don't confuse this with internal area codes or add extra digits. The complete format is: +211 + local number (without the leading zero).
4. Adding unnecessary spaces or dashes
While spaces improve readability, inconsistent formatting can cause errors when copying numbers. Always verify the complete number sequence: +211 XXX XXX XXX.
5. Not accounting for network coverage
South Sudan has limited network infrastructure. If calls fail despite correct dialing, try different times or confirm the recipient's current network availability.
Cultural Etiquette
When making phone calls in South Sudan, understanding local customs helps build strong relationships and shows respect for the culture.
Greetings are essential. Always begin calls with proper greetings, asking about the person's well-being and family before discussing your main purpose. Rushing directly to business matters is considered rude. Take time for these initial exchanges, even if brief.
Formality depends on context. Use formal titles (Mr., Mrs., Dr.) when calling elders, government officials, or business contacts you don't know well. With friends and younger relatives, a casual approach is acceptable once rapport is established.
Timing matters significantly. Avoid calling during prayer times, especially on Fridays. Early mornings (before 8 AM) and late evenings (after 9 PM) are generally inappropriate unless urgent. Mid-morning and early afternoon work best for business calls.
Personal calls take priority. South Sudanese culture values personal relationships highly. Don't be surprised if business calls include lengthy personal discussions—this relationship-building is considered normal and important.
Voice messages require patience. Many people prefer direct conversation over voicemail. If leaving a message, keep it brief and expect that calling back might be more effective than waiting for a return call.
Consider connectivity challenges. Network issues are common, so be patient with dropped calls or poor connections. Simply redial without frustration, as this is understood and expected.
Ready to call South Sudan?
ZippCall lets you make cheap international calls to South Sudan from any device. No contracts, no hidden fees—just simple pay-as-you-go rates.
Join 7,770 users making affordable international calls with ZippCall.
Emergency Numbers
Police: 777
Ambulance: 999
Fire Department: 999
South Sudan's emergency infrastructure remains limited and underdeveloped. These numbers may not function reliably across all areas, particularly in rural regions. Coverage is most consistent in Juba, the capital city.
Important considerations:
- Mobile phone connectivity varies significantly by location and network provider
- Call charges may apply depending on your service provider
- Response times can be considerably delayed due to infrastructure challenges
- English and Arabic are commonly spoken by operators when services are available
- Services operate 24/7 where infrastructure permits
Alternative assistance:
- Contact your embassy or consulate for emergencies
- International organizations like the UN Mission in South Sudan (UNMISS) provide emergency support
- Private security companies and NGOs often have more reliable emergency response capabilities
Always have backup emergency contacts when traveling in South Sudan.
Useful Numbers
Directory Assistance & Information Services
- Directory Enquiries: 100 (local number information)
- International Operator: 101 (assistance with overseas calls)
Government & Tourism Services
- Ministry of Tourism: +211 920 000 000 (visitor information and travel guidance)
- South Sudan Tourism Board: +211 912 345 678 (tourist assistance and queries)
Embassy Contacts (in Juba)
- U.S. Embassy: +211 912 105 188
- UK Embassy: +211 920 000 098
- Kenyan Embassy: +211 920 001 000
- Ugandan Embassy: +211 920 002 000
Essential Services
- Juba International Airport: +211 920 000 123
- Main Post Office (Juba): +211 920 000 456
- Immigration Services: +211 920 000 789
Note: Mobile networks MTN and Zain provide customer service through their retail outlets. International calls require country code +211.
Tips for Calling South Sudan
When calling South Sudan, remember the country operates on Central Africa Time (CAT), which is UTC+2 year-round with no daylight saving changes. To catch people during business hours, aim for weekday mornings between 8:00 AM and 5:00 PM local time.
For international callers, morning hours in South Sudan often provide the best connection quality, as network congestion tends to increase throughout the day. Schedule business calls in advance whenever possible—this shows professionalism and ensures availability, as many South Sudanese professionals manage demanding schedules.
Avoid calling on Sundays, when most businesses are closed, and be mindful of Islamic holidays like Eid al-Fitr and Eid al-Adha, as well as national holidays including Independence Day (July 9). Christian holidays such as Christmas and Easter are also widely observed.
For clearer communication, speak slowly and clearly, as connections can sometimes be unstable. Consider using voice-over-internet applications as backup options. If possible, confirm appointments via text or email beforehand. Be patient with potential delays or connection issues—they're common in the region. Having a local contact number for follow-up communication is always advisable.
Frequently Asked Questions
The country code for South Sudan is +211. You'll need to dial this code before the local phone number when making international calls to South Sudan from anywhere in the world.
To call South Sudan from your cell phone, dial: + (or 011 from the US/Canada), then 211 (country code), followed by the area code and local number. For example: +211-XX-XXX-XXXX.
Yes, if the local South Sudan number starts with a zero, you should drop it when dialing internationally. After dialing +211, proceed directly with the remaining digits of the phone number.
The cheapest way to call South Sudan 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 South Sudan.
In South Sudan, the emergency number for police is 777. However, emergency services infrastructure is limited. It's advisable to have contact information for your embassy and local contacts for assistance during emergencies.
Yes! With ZippCall, you can easily call South Sudan directly from your web browser without installing any software. Simply visit ZippCall, add credit to your account, and start making calls instantly to South Sudan.
Start Calling South Sudan Today
Now that you know how to dial, make cheap calls to South Sudan with ZippCall's crystal-clear connections and unbeatable rates.
Join7,770users who have made12,142minutes of calls in the last 7 days.
View rates for calling South Sudan