Culture and Holidays in Mauritania

Languages

In corporate sectors like mining and energy, French is the primary language for communication, documentation, and client interactions, especially in multinational companies (MNCs). Meetings, presentations, and official emails are generally conducted in French, though employees may use Hassaniya Arabic informally. 

In government offices and public sector organizations, Arabic and French are commonly used for internal communication and documentation. Mauritania recognizes Arabic as the official language, with French maintaining prominence in extractive industries. 

The mining and fisheries sectors rely on local languages for daily operations, especially in labor-intensive industries. Extraction sites, processing plants, and fishing vessels primarily use Hassaniya, Pulaar, or Soninke, while management-level communication is in French. 

In customer service, language use depends on clientele. Arabic is common for domestic support, while mining/energy firms hire speakers of English and Chinese to cater to international commodity buyers.

Workplace norms and professional etiquette

Mauritanian workplace culture combines tradition, respect for hierarchy, and Islamic principles with a strong sense of formality. Understanding these traits is fundamental for success in Mauritania.

Workplace hierarchy and authority

Organizations are structured and hierarchical; titles (Sidi, Sayyida, professional titles) are used formally in address.

Email and phone etiquette

In Mauritania, emails are formal, using correct titles and polite phrasing. In calls, polite greeting followed by a concise business overview is the norm; chasing without notice is frowned upon.

Meeting etiquette and punctuality

Punctuality is essential — arriving 10–15 minutes early is recommended. Meetings start with light small talk then straight into the agenda; delays are not tolerated.

Professional dress code

Formal business attire (conservative and modest) is standard. Social events like dinners are key for relationship-building — you’ll often see gatherings with tea or banquets in professional contexts.

National holidays

Employees in Mauritania are entitled to several national holidays.

• Jan. 1: New Year's Day
• Eid al-Fitr
• Eid al-Adha
• May 1: Labor Day
• May 25: Africa Day
• Islamic New Year
• Mawlid al-Nabi
• Nov. 28: Independence Day 

Employees may also receive local or sector-specific holidays depending on their region or industry. 

Employees who work on public holidays are entitled to compensatory time off or additional pay, as regulated by Mauritania’s labor law and collective agreements. Standard rates apply on make-up days unless stated otherwise in employment terms.