Mauritania visa requirements for Mauritians

Travel and visa requirements

Mauritanian Visa is not required for Mauritians

Stay Duration: 90 days

Entry Requirements

  • Mauritians can obtain a 90-day visa on arrival for travelling to Mauritania for tourism.
  • Visas on arrival are available at the Nouackchott- Oumtounsy International Airport, Mauritania.
  • Visa costs 55 EUR/ 60 USD.
  • Visitors are to possess an original passport valid for at least 6 months upon entry into Mauritania.
  • Visitors are to also possess 2 completed visa application forms and 4 passport photographs.
  • Confirmation of hotel bookings or letter from a Mauritanian host is required.
  • Proof of travel allowance (sufficient to cover the entire stay in Mauritania) and employment  is required.
  • Visitors are also required to possess an onward or return ticket.
  • Business visitors are required to tender a letter of invitation from the host company.
  • Visitors are required to get vaccination against Malaria, Cholera, Tuberculosis, Yellow  fever, Dengue fever, Hepatitis and Typhoid as these diseases are prevalent in Mauritania.
  • Mauritania recognizes Islam as the sole religion of its citizens and religious freedom is  restricted.
  • Arabic is the official language in Mauritania.
  • Mauritanians drive on the right hand side of the road.
  • Attempts to convert citizens from their religion is illegal and may lead to deportation, arrest or prosecution.
  • Public display of affection between members of the opposite sex is prohibited.
  • The country adopts the use of the Mauritanian Ouguiya as its official currency, with 1.03 Mauritanian Ouguiya equaling 1 Mauritian Rupee. 
  • In Mauritania, the power plugs and sockets are type C. The standard voltage is 220 V  and standard frequency is 50 Hz.
  •  Internet speed in Mauritania is averaged at 3.47 Mbps for downloads and  2.12 Mbps which is low.
  • About two-third of the country has the Saharan climate, with daytime temperatures exceeding 38 degree Celsius in most areas for over 6 months of the year, however the nights are cool.
  • Homosexuality is a punishable offence in Mauritania and drug laws are severe.
  • Ignoring people who greet you is considered rude. Visitors are advised to reply greetings and greet people they meet in a shop or store upon entry.
  • Sale and consumption of alcohol in Mauritania is illegal.
  • Traditional dishes in Mauritania include chebu jen, yassa poulet and rice with vegetables. Mint tea is widely drunk.
  • There are no public buses in Mauritania, however there are bush taxis, private taxi companies and train services (Only available in North Mauritania).

Frequently Asked Questions

Is alcohol legal in Mauritania?

The sale and consumption of alcohol is illegal in Mauritania although some restaurants do serve it. Those found in possession of illegal drugs might also get prison sentences.

Is English spoken in the country?

Yes, English language is increasingly spoken in Mauritania after it was introduced into secondary schools 10 years ago.

Is Sharia law practiced in Mauritania?

Mauritania follows the sharia law being an Islamic country. This might account for their zero tolerance to consumption of alcohol and indecent dressing. 

Is Mauritania a desert?

Yes it is because much of Mauritania encompasses the Sahara desert.