Mauritania
Subregion: Western Africa
Mauritania is a country located in Western Africa. The Capital City is Nouakchott. The government is a Unitary semi-presidential Islamic republic. The official language of the country is Arabic. The predominant religion is Sunni Islam. The healthcare system in Mauritania has both public and private sectors. However, healthcare is only available in the major cities.
Safety:
Mauritania, like any country, has its own set of safety concerns that visitors and residents should be aware of. Mauritania has experienced terrorist attacks in the past, and there is a risk of further attacks. The threat is primarily from extremist groups such as Al Qaeda in the Islamic Maghreb (AQIM) and ISIS, who operate in the Sahel region. Visitors should avoid areas near the border with Mali and avoid traveling after dark. Petty crime such as pickpocketing and theft can occur in urban areas, especially in crowded places such as markets and bus stations. Visitors should take precautions such as not carrying large amounts of cash or valuable items, and avoiding walking alone at night. Mauritania is a desert country, and visitors should be prepared for extreme heat and sandstorms. It is important to stay hydrated and protect yourself from the sun, and to avoid traveling in the desert alone or without a guide. Visitors to Mauritania should take precautions to avoid contracting illnesses such as malaria and yellow fever, and should ensure they are up-to-date on routine vaccinations. It is also important to drink bottled or treated water to avoid water-borne illnesses. Mauritania has a high rate of traffic accidents, and the roads can be in poor condition. Visitors should exercise caution when driving or traveling by road, and avoid travel by road after dark. Mauritania, located in northwest Africa, has a largely undeveloped road infrastructure, and travel by road can be hazardous. The country's road network is mainly composed of unpaved and poorly-maintained roads, which can become impassable during the rainy season (July to October). Driving standards in Mauritania are generally poor, and there is a high incidence of road traffic accidents. Additionally, there are often hazards on the road such as livestock and other obstacles, as well as sand drifts that can make driving difficult. There is also a risk of banditry and other criminal activity on certain routes, particularly those leading to and from the border regions. Visitors are advised to exercise caution when traveling in these areas, and to travel in convoys when possible.
Cultural Customs:
Mauritania is a country located in Northwest Africa, and it has a rich cultural heritage that is deeply rooted in its Islamic and African traditions. In Mauritania, the traditional clothing for men is a long robe called a "boubou," which is typically made from cotton or wool. Women traditionally wear a "melhfa," which is a long, flowing robe that covers the head and body. Hospitality is highly valued in Mauritania, and guests are treated with great respect and generosity. It is common for Mauritanians to offer tea and snacks to visitors as a sign of hospitality. Music and dance play an important role in Mauritanian culture, with traditional instruments like the hoddu (a stringed instrument) and the tidinit (a lute-like instrument) being used in performances. In Mauritania, marriage is considered a very important event, and it involves elaborate ceremonies and celebrations. The bride and groom are typically surrounded by their families and friends, and there is often a large feast to celebrate the occasion. Mauritanian cuisine is characterized by the use of spices, and dishes often feature rice, meat (particularly lamb), and vegetables. Dates and couscous are also staple foods in the Mauritanian diet. Islam is the predominant religion in Mauritania, and it plays an important role in daily life. The call to prayer can be heard five times a day, and many Mauritanians observe Ramadan, the month of fasting. Family is highly valued in Mauritanian culture, and it is common for extended families to live together. Respect for elders is also an important value, and children are expected to show deference to their parents and grandparents.
Geography & Weather:
Mauritania has dual climates, desert in the north and center and semi-desert in the south.
In Zouérat, which is in the north, the average temperature ranges from 62 to 92 degrees Fahrenheit. The coldest month is January with a median temperature of 62 degrees F and August being the hottest month with a median temperature of 92 degrees F. There isn’t a rainy season in this area as they average only 2 inches of rain per year. The sun shines all year round.
In the capital city of Nouakchott, which is in the middle of the country, the average temperature ranges from 71 to 86 degrees Fahrenheit. The coldest month is January with a median temperature of 71 degrees F and October is the hottest month with a median temperature of 86 degrees F. The monsoon season in this area is from July - October, with most of the rain falling in August. The sea temperature stays cool, averaging about 72 degrees year round. This city falls in the region of the Sahel, the area located between the Sahara and the Savannah.
In Sélibaby, which is in the far south, the average temperature ranges from 76 to 95 degrees Fahrenheit. The coldest month is January with a median temperature of 76 degrees F and May being the hottest month with a median temperature of 95 degrees F. This area gets more rain than the northern part of the country. The rainy season in this area is June - September.
Economy:
Mauritania is a country located in the northwest of Africa, bordering the Atlantic Ocean to the west, Western Sahara to the north and northwest, Algeria to the northeast, Mali to the east and southeast, and Senegal to the southwest. The economy of Mauritania is primarily based on agriculture, livestock, fisheries, and mining. Agriculture is the largest sector of the economy, employing around 50% of the population and contributing to about 25% of the country's GDP. The main crops cultivated in Mauritania include dates, millet, sorghum, maize, and rice. Livestock, including cattle, sheep, and goats, is also an important sector, accounting for about 20% of GDP. Mauritania has a significant fishing industry, with fish and fish products being the country's second-largest export after iron ore. The fishing industry employs about 40,000 people and contributes about 5% of GDP. However, the industry has faced challenges such as overfishing, illegal fishing, and competition from foreign fleets. Mining is a significant contributor to the Mauritanian economy, with the country being a major producer of iron ore, copper, gold, and other minerals. The mining sector accounts for around 40% of the country's exports and contributes about 10% of GDP. Despite having abundant natural resources, Mauritania remains one of the poorest countries in the world, with a high poverty rate and low levels of human development. The country also faces challenges such as limited infrastructure, high unemployment, and political instability. The government has implemented various economic reforms in recent years to promote private sector development and improve the investment climate.
Currency/Foreign Exchange Rate:
Mauritania Ouguiya (MRU)
MRU 1.00 = USD .027
Country Stats:
Population (2020):
4,649,658
Median Age:
20.1 yrs
Life Expectancy:
65.57 yrs
Visa Requirements:
Needed for Entry for US Citizens? Yes
Cost: Tourist Visa, single entry, 90 days $45
Visa on arrival, 90 days $60
*Additional Information*
Yellow fever vaccination on WHO Yellow Card is required for entry. The card should be carried with you at all times.
Citizenship Requirements:
Dual citizenship - Yes, with approval
Naturalization - Mauritanian citizenship may be acquired upon fulfillment of the following conditions: Person has resided in Mauritania for at least ten consecutive years, is of good character, no physical or mental disabilities, and have no criminal convictions. The person must also prove competency in Arabic, Pulaar, Soninké, or the Wolof language.
Residency Requirements:
Information not available online
Resources:
Banque Populaire De Mauritanie
U.S. Embassy Nouakchott
Nouadhibou Road, Avenue Al Quds,
NOT PRTZ.
Nouakchott, Mauritania
Phone: +(222) 4525-2660
Emergency Phone: +(222) 3662-8163
Fax: +(222) 4525-1592
Email: ConsularNKC@state.gov