Africa
Money, cards and tipping in Mauritania
MRUOuguiya
Money in Mauritania
Mostly cash Cash economy. Euros and dollars change at bureaux in Nouakchott; the ouguiya cannot be reliably bought abroad. US$1 ≈ UM39.96 (03 Oct 2026).
Key facts
- Tipping: Small tips of 5-10% in restaurants are appreciated.
- ATMs: Few ATMs accept foreign cards; Nouakchott has some Visa machines with low limits.
- Paying by phone: Local apps like Bankily and Masrivi need a local SIM and ID.
- Price level: about 31% of US prices (World Bank PPP).
Cash or card, by place
| Place | Cards | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Nouakchott | Mostly cash | Mostly cash; cards work at few hotels. Foreign cards often fail at ATMs, so bring euros to change. Bankily and Masrivi mobile apps need a local SIM. |
Quick answers
Do you tip in Mauritania?
Small tips of 5-10% in restaurants are appreciated.
Is Mauritania cashless?
Mostly cash. Cash economy. Euros and dollars change at bureaux in Nouakchott; the ouguiya cannot be reliably bought abroad.
What currency does Mauritania use?
The Ouguiya (MRU). US$1 ≈ UM39.96 (03 Oct 2026).
Sources
- ExchangeRate-API open rates
- US State Department travel advisory
- UK FCDO travel advice: Mauritania
- World Bank open data
Compiled and reviewed by SoloSquare. How we compile and score this. Spotted something out of date? Tell us.