Nouakchott: what to see and whether to move there

Is it worth moving to Nouakchott in 2026

Nouakchott is Mauritania's capital on the Atlantic coast of the Sahara, a young city that grew from a small settlement after independence in 1960. It hosts ministries, international organisations, a fishing port and mining and gas companies. People move here almost exclusively for work: life on local terms is inexpensive, but strict religious laws, the hot climate and limited infrastructure do not suit everyone.

What it costs to live in Nouakchott

Prices come from two independent 2026 price databases, with ouguiya converted at about 40.14 per dollar based on September 2026 data. Housing for foreigners with security and a generator costs noticeably more than average prices.

Where to live

• Tevragh Zeina - the district of embassies, restaurants and villas, most popular with foreigners.
• Ksar - the old part of the city near the centre.
• The centre by the main market - trade and offices, lively and noisy.
• The coast by the fishing port - colourful but far from offices.

Entry, work and residence

Since 2025 Mauritania issues visas electronically before departure, embassies no longer issue them, and requirements for Russian citizens should be checked before travel. Work requires a work permit and residence through an employer. There are no separate residence programmes for investors, pensioners or remote workers.

Taxes

Income tax on salary is progressive, from 15% to 40% depending on monthly income. Residents pay tax on worldwide income, but foreign income is exempt if already taxed in another country, and non-residents pay only on Mauritanian income. Tax is withheld by the employer.

Work and economy

The economy rests on iron ore mining, fishing in one of the Atlantic's richest fishing grounds and gold, and in recent years an offshore gas project on the border with Senegal has been added. Foreigners work in mining and gas companies, international organisations and embassies, usually on contracts with housing and security allowances.

Laws, climate and everyday life

Mauritania is an Islamic republic: alcohol is banned, dress should be modest, and during Ramadan eating and drinking in public are restricted. The official language is Arabic, and French is widely spoken in business. The climate is hot and dry with sandstorms, while the ocean keeps winters mild. Healthcare is limited, people fly to Morocco, Senegal or Europe for complex treatment, and cash ouguiya is mostly used.

Getting there

Nouakchott-Oumtounsy International Airport lies north of the city. Flights connect via Casablanca, Paris, Istanbul, Tunis and Dakar, with no direct flights from Russia. Overland, roads link Mauritania with Morocco via Western Sahara and with Senegal via a crossing on the Senegal River, but desert travel away from main routes requires caution.

Family, schools and safety

Foreign children can attend a French lycée and several private schools teaching in French and English. The city is generally calm, but areas far from the capital and near the Malian border have restrictions, and trips there follow embassy advice. Foreigners live in Tevragh Zeina in houses with security and a generator, and leave the city in four-wheel drives.

Money and connectivity

The local currency is the ouguiya, mostly used in cash, and bank cards are accepted in few hotels and supermarkets. Large payments with employers and landlords are often made in US dollars or euros. Mobile service and mobile internet work in the city, and home internet costs about $60 a month and can be unstable.

Housing

Foreigners mainly rent walled villas or flats in new buildings in Tevragh Zeina. Landlords often ask for several months' rent upfront, and the lease should be in writing and in French. It is important to check the generator, water storage and air conditioning: summer heat lasts long and power cuts happen. Furniture and appliances often have to be bought separately.

Pitfalls

• Strict laws and restrictions on public behaviour.
• Heat and sandstorms.
• Limited healthcare and choice of goods.
• Visas are issued only electronically and rules change.
• No residence programmes without a job.

Murblz specialists check work documents and, for life in North Africa, suggest other countries such as Morocco.