Nouakchott - Post Report Question and Answers
How much of the local language do you need for daily living? Are local language classes/tutors available and affordable?
The national language is Arabic and the local dialect called Hassaniya is unique to Mauritania/Western Sahara. Even for Arabic speakers it takes time to pick up. French is the language of commerce and business that most expats will be dealing with, so it is worthwhile to pick up some French. The reality is most interactions will be at restaurants or at the grocery store, which are fairly formulaic, so the vocabulary you need for these things isn’t extensive and there are individuals that get by with google translate and very limited language. - Jan 2023
You can survive with English but your life will be much easier and your experience much more rewarding if you can speak French. So much of the news, information, menus, signs, tips and tricks for getting around here is in French. It is important to note that Arabic (in reality, Hassaniya) is the most widely spoken language and the country's official language. French is secondary. Most (but not all) Mauritanians speak French but it's their second/third/fourth/fifth language. Interestingly, Spanish is more common than French in the northern city of Nouadibou. - Aug 2021
French and Arabic. More so French everyone speaks French, seldom does anyone speak English. - Aug 2021
Local language is helpful but one can get around with a smile and a friendly way. Mauritanians are very welcoming and ready to help. - Sep 2020
Arabic is extremely useful here. French is also good for some people. Tutors are available you can find them through the yahoo group ExpatRIM. - Apr 2019
Not too much. If you speak French you can get by making change in the store or shopping. Aside from shopping I don't know how much interaction you would do with locals, really. - May 2016
French or Arabic is necessary to get around the city. Most of your household help does not speak English. - Dec 2015
You will need to speak French and it helps if you speak Arabic. - Apr 2014
You need to know some French if you want to talk to people. - Aug 2011
French is useful. - Dec 2009
