Mauritania

Geographic Location

Location in Africa: Mauritania is located in Northwest Africa, bordered by the Atlantic Ocean to the west, Western Sahara to the northwest, Algeria to the northeast, Mali to the east and southeast, and Senegal to the southwest.
Latitude and Longitude: 20°N, 12°W
Size: 1,030,700 square kilometers, making it one of the largest countries in Africa.

Population

Current Population: Approximately 5 million (UN estimate).

Economy

GDP (2025):

• Nominal GDP: Around $11.2 billion
• GDP per capita: Approximately $2,240

National Symbols

Anthem: “Bilādī” (“My Country”)
National Pledge: Mauritania does not have an official national pledge.

Culture and Customs

Ethnic Groups: Moors (Arab-Berber), Haratine (freed slaves and their descendants), Sub-Saharan African groups including Fulani, Soninké, and Wolof.
Languages: Arabic (official), Pulaar, Soninké, Wolof (national languages), and French (widely used in education and government).
Religion: Islam (Sunni), which is the state religion and practiced by nearly the entire population.

Main Airports

Nouakchott–Oumtounsy International Airport – Main international gateway, located near the capital.
Nouadhibou International Airport – Serves the northern economic center.

Popular Tourist Destinations

Chinguetti: A historic caravan town and UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Atar: Gateway to the Adrar Plateau and desert oases.
Banc d’Arguin National Park: UNESCO-listed park known for birdwatching and marine life.
Terjit Oasis: A picturesque desert oasis near Atar.
Nouakchott: The capital city with markets, mosques, and Atlantic beaches.

Events and Festivals

Independence Day (November 28): Celebrates independence from France in 1960.
Eid al-Fitr and Eid al-Adha: Major Islamic religious holidays celebrated nationwide.
Nouakchott Book Fair: Annual event celebrating literature and culture.

Practical Information

Calling Code: +222
Country Domain: .mr
Currency: Ouguiya (MRU)