How to Call Uzbekistan
Complete guide to dialing Uzbekistan (country code +998)
Staying connected with friends, family, or business contacts in Uzbekistan doesn't have to be complicated. Whether you're planning your first international call or looking to avoid common dialing errors, understanding how to call Uzbekistan properly will save you time and frustration. This comprehensive guide walks you through everything you need to know about calling Uzbekistan, from step-by-step dialing instructions to the specific country and area codes you'll need. We'll cover the most frequent mistakes people make when placing international calls, share essential phone etiquette tips to help you make a great impression, and provide a list of useful numbers for emergencies and general inquiries. By the end of this guide, you'll be confidently making calls to Uzbekistan like a pro.
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Quick Reference
Dialing Instructions
How to Dial Uzbekistan: Complete International Calling Guide
Calling Uzbekistan requires understanding the international dialing format and country-specific number structures. Follow these clear instructions to successfully connect your calls.
International Dialing Format Structure
The complete format for calling Uzbekistan is:
Exit Code + 998 + Area Code + Local Number
- Exit code varies by country
- 998 is Uzbekistan's country code
- Area codes are 2 digits for landlines
- Mobile numbers don't use area codes
Dropping the Leading Zero
When dialing Uzbekistan internationally, always drop the leading zero from local numbers. For example, if a local number appears as 071-123-4567, dial it as 71-123-4567 when calling from abroad.
Step-by-Step Dialing Examples
Example 1 - Tashkent Landline from USA:
Local format: (071) 234-5678
Dial: 011-998-71-234-5678
Example 2 - Mobile Number from UK:
Local format: 090 123 4567
Dial: 00-998-90-123-4567
Example 3 - Samarkand Landline from Australia:
Local format: (066) 234-5678
Dial: 0011-998-66-234-5678
Country-Specific Exit Codes
From USA/Canada: Use exit code 011
Format: 011-998-XX-XXX-XXXX
From UK/Europe: Use exit code 00
Format: 00-998-XX-XXX-XXXX
From Australia: Use exit code 0011
Format: 0011-998-XX-XXX-XXXX
Using Mobile Phones: Replace exit codes with +
Format: +998-XX-XXX-XXXX
Common Area Codes
- Tashkent: 71
- Samarkand: 66
- Bukhara: 65
- Namangan: 69
Mobile Network Prefixes
Uzbek mobile numbers begin with 9X (90, 91, 93, 94, 95, 97, 98, 99) and don't require area codes.
Mobile example from any country:
+998-91-234-5678
When using smartphones, simply enter +998 followed by the area code and number. The plus symbol automatically selects your country's correct exit code, making international dialing simpler and error-free.
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Common Mistakes
When calling Uzbekistan, avoid these common mistakes that can prevent your call from connecting:
Forgetting to drop the leading zero: Uzbekistan phone numbers often appear with a leading zero in local format (e.g., 071-xxx-xxxx). When dialing internationally, always remove this zero. Dial +998 71 xxx xxxx, not +998 071 xxx xxxx.
Using the wrong exit code: Many people dial "+" when they should use their country's exit code. If your phone doesn't support "+", use your exit code (011 from the US/Canada, 00 from most of Europe) followed by 998.
Confusing the country code with area codes: The country code +998 comes first, followed by the city code. For example, Tashkent is 71, Samarkand is 66. The complete format is: +998 (city code) (local number).
Incorrect spacing or formatting: While spaces don't affect the connection, inconsistent formatting causes confusion. Use: +998 XX XXX XXXX for clarity.
Not accounting for time differences: Uzbekistan is UTC+5 with no daylight saving time. Check the local time before calling to avoid disturbing contacts during late hours.
Cultural Etiquette
When making phone calls in Uzbekistan, understanding local customs helps build respectful relationships. Uzbeks value politeness and warmth in communication, whether for business or personal matters.
Always begin calls with a proper greeting. "Assalomu aleykum" (peace be upon you) is the traditional Islamic greeting widely used. Follow this by asking about the person's health and family before discussing your purpose. Rushing into business is considered impolite.
For business calls, maintain formality and use titles like "janob" (Mr.) or appropriate professional designations. Business hours typically run from 9 AM to 6 PM, Monday through Friday. Avoid calling during lunch (1-2 PM) or after 9 PM. Personal calls are more flexible but respect late evening and early morning hours.
Personal conversations tend to be warmer and can be lengthy, as relationship-building is important in Uzbek culture. Don't be surprised if calls last longer than expected—abrupt endings seem rude.
Voice messages are increasingly common among younger Uzbeks, but older generations prefer direct conversation. If leaving a message, keep it respectful and clear.
Important cultural consideration: Uzbeks often ask detailed questions about family and well-being. This isn't intrusive but shows genuine care. Answer warmly and reciprocate the questions.
Lastly, speaking calmly and avoiding raised voices demonstrates respect. Patience during conversations, even with language barriers, is greatly appreciated and reflects positively on your character.
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Emergency Numbers
Police: 102
Ambulance: 103
Fire Department: 101
Universal Emergency Number: 112
The 112 emergency number connects to all services and works from any phone, including mobiles, even without a SIM card or credit. All emergency calls are free of charge throughout Uzbekistan.
Important Context:
- All services operate 24/7
- English-speaking operators are limited; Russian and Uzbek are primary languages
- Response times vary significantly between major cities like Tashkent and rural areas
- Mobile phone users can dial both traditional three-digit numbers and 112
- Keep your location details ready, as GPS tracking may not be available
- Consider having a Russian or Uzbek speaker assist if possible
- Save your embassy contact information for additional support
Always remain calm and speak slowly when calling emergency services.
Useful Numbers
Directory Assistance & Information Services
- 109: Directory inquiry service for local phone numbers and addresses throughout Uzbekistan
International Services
- 8-10-country code-number: International direct dialing format
- International operator assistance available through major hotels and telecom offices
Tourist Information
- State Committee for Tourism: +998-71-238-6888
- Tourist police helpline: 1171 (multilingual support available)
Embassy Contacts
Contact your embassy directly for citizen services. Major embassies are located in Tashkent, with numbers available through their official websites or the Ministry of Foreign Affairs.
Additional Helpful Numbers
- Uzbekistan Airways: +998-71-140-0200
- Railway information: 1135
- Weather information: 115
- Taxi services: Major apps include Yandex Go and Uber
- Bank hotlines: Available on bank cards for financial assistance
Keep these numbers saved for convenient access during your stay.
Tips for Calling Uzbekistan
When calling Uzbekistan (UTC+5), timing matters for successful connections. The country is 5 hours ahead of UTC year-round, as they don't observe daylight saving time.
For personal calls, early evening your time often works well if calling from Western locations, catching Uzbekistanis during their morning or early afternoon. Business calls require more precision—standard business hours run Monday through Friday, 9:00 AM to 6:00 PM local time, with many offices closing for lunch between 1:00 PM and 2:00 PM.
Always schedule business calls in advance. This shows respect and ensures availability, particularly when dealing with government offices or larger companies. Avoid calling during Ramadan (dates vary annually), when work schedules shift significantly, and on major holidays like Navruz (March 21) and Independence Day (September 1).
For clearer communication, speak slowly and articulate carefully—many Uzbekistanis speak Russian or Uzbek as their first language. Poor connection quality can occur in rural areas, so consider using internet-based calling apps when possible. Confirm important details via follow-up email to prevent misunderstandings. Finally, be patient with potential language barriers and maintain a respectful, professional tone throughout conversations.
Frequently Asked Questions
The country code for Uzbekistan is +998. You'll need to dial this code before the local phone number when making international calls to Uzbekistan from anywhere in the world.
To dial Uzbekistan from your cell phone, start with + (or your country's international access code), then dial 998 (Uzbekistan's country code), followed by the area code and local number. For example: +998 XX XXX XXXX.
Yes, if the local Uzbekistan phone number starts with a zero, you should drop it when dialing internationally. After dialing +998, enter the area code and number without the leading zero.
The cheapest way to call Uzbekistan 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 Uzbekistan.
In Uzbekistan, the main emergency numbers are: 101 for fire, 102 for police, and 103 for ambulance. The unified emergency number 112 also works from mobile phones throughout the country.
Yes! ZippCall allows you to make calls to Uzbekistan directly from your web browser. Simply log into your ZippCall account, enter the Uzbekistan phone number, and start calling—no downloads or special equipment required.
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