Mauritânia

You should always carry copies of your photo ID, especially outside Nouakchott where there are police checkpoints. Follow any directions from the police or other Mauritanian security forces.

Mauritania recognises Islam as the only religion of its citizens and the state. It is illegal to participate in non-Islamic gatherings and activities that have not been authorised by the Mauritanian authorities. Attempting to convert people to other religions is illegal – those caught doing this can be arrested or deported. Blasphemy is a criminal offence and the maximum penalty is death. Respect local traditions, customs, laws and religion at all times and be aware of your actions to ensure they don’t offend, especially during the holy month of Ramadan or when visiting religious sites.

Ramadan is a holy month for Muslims. The dates vary by year and country. During this time, do not eat, drink, smoke or chew gum in public in the daytime, including in your car.

Get more advice when you arrive from your tour guide, hotel or business contacts.

You should also:

• check opening hours of shops and restaurants
• follow local dress codes – clothing that does not meet local dress codes may cause more offence at this time
• be aware that driving may be more erratic, particularly when people are trying to get home at dusk

It is illegal for Muslims and non-Muslims to import or consume alcohol and pork products in Mauritania. The Mauritanian authorities scan all baggage on arrival at Nouakchott International Airport and may search vehicles at land borders. They will confiscate alcohol or pork products and arrest or fine people found carrying them.

Drug laws in Mauritania are severe. The penalties for possessing illegal drugs include imprisonment.

You should dress modestly when not on the beach. Women should cover their shoulders and not wear short skirts. Men should not wear sleeveless tops or shorts.

Police and members of the public can object to photography or filming if you do not get their permission. Do not photograph or film government and military sites or members of the security forces.  

There are no laws in Mauritania to protect LGBT+ people from discrimination.

Under Mauritanian law, the maximum penalty for sexual activity between men is death. Penalties for women include a prison sentence ranging from 3 months to 2 years and a fine.

Read more advice for LGBT+ travellers.

It is illegal to take Mauritanian currency (ougiyas) out of the country. The Mauritanian authorities may confiscate money from people trying to do so.

You can exchange US dollars and euros for Mauritanian ouguiyas at banks, some hotels and official bureau de change. You can exchange British pounds at some official bureau de change, but the exchange rate is very poor.

Mauritania is mainly a cash-based society. A few hotels in Nouakchott and Nouadhibou accept credit cards – some hotels only accept Visa cards. Some ATMs accept foreign credit or debit cards.