Currency and cash
The currency is the ouguiya, which is non-convertible and cannot be taken out. The economy is cash-based; declare foreign currency on arrival (exports are limited to the declared amount). Exchange offices only accept dollars and euros; some hotels in Nouakchott and Nouadhibou accept cards.
Verified factVerified on 10/2/26High confidenceGovernment of Canada, Travel advice: Mauritania
Accounts and mobile money
According to the World Bank (Global Findex, 2024 survey), 27% of adults have an account, at a bank or with mobile money. To open a mobile money account, ask the mobile operators which documents they require and what the fees are.
Verified factVerified on 10/2/26High confidenceWorld Bank, Global Findex 2025 database (accounts and mobile money, adults aged 15 and over)
Sources for this guide
- Government of Canada, Travel advice: Mauritania · Source updated: September 8, 2026 · Checked on October 2, 2026
- World Bank, Global Findex 2025 database (accounts and mobile money, adults aged 15 and over) · Source updated: October 6, 2025 · Checked on October 2, 2026
AfriPilot is not an official body. Information comes from the sources cited and may change: each source's date is shown.