Where the Sahara Meets the Atlantic — Ancient Libraries & Desert Wonders
In Mauritanian ouguiya (MRU). Note the 2018 redenomination replaced old MRO at 1 new MRU = 10 old MRO, so verify which unit older figures use.
Through the ITS salary tax, withheld monthly by your employer and remitted to the DGI. It is progressive, with higher marginal rates on higher pay.
Mauritania primarily taxes Mauritanian-source income. Your worldwide-income exposure depends on your residency status and your home country's rules; treaty relief is limited, so check both jurisdictions.
The standard TVA rate is 16%, with some exemptions and special treatments for essential goods and specific sectors.
Obtain a tax ID (NIF) from the DGI, register the company, enrol for corporate tax and VAT, and register employees with the CNSS social security fund.
Yes. Comprehensive private insurance that includes medical evacuation is strongly advised, because serious cases often need treatment abroad.
In Nouakchott, at the main national hospital and reputable private clinics. Complex or emergency care frequently requires evacuation to Dakar, Morocco, Europe, or the Gulf.
Do not rely on tap water for drinking. Use bottled or properly treated/filtered water, and be careful with food hygiene.
Yellow fever (certificate required from endemic areas), plus commonly hepatitis A/B, typhoid, tetanus, meningococcal, and malaria prophylaxis for the south. See a travel clinic before arrival.
City pharmacies stock common medicines, but specialist drugs can be unreliable. Bring an adequate personal supply with a prescription and documentation.
Rarely. Mauritania is a cash economy; cards work only at some hotels, larger supermarkets, and select businesses in Nouakchott. Carry ouguiya cash.
Alcohol is officially prohibited for the general public in this Islamic republic. Do not assume it is available or acceptable in public.
French will get you far in cities, business, and administration; learning basic Hassaniya Arabic greetings earns real goodwill. English is limited outside international circles.
Many workplaces observe a Friday–Saturday weekend with the working week running Sunday to Thursday, reflecting Friday as the main prayer day.
Cash for most things, plus mobile money services like Bankily, Sedad, and Masrvi for transfers and bills. WhatsApp coordinates much of daily communication.