In Mauritania, the mobile market in early 2026 is undergoing significant changes due to strict new regulatory requirements and a major network modernization push in the capital, Nouakchott. The market is led by Moov Mauritel, Chinguitel, and Mattel.
Major Network & Data Offers (February 2026)
Biometric Requirement Note: As of January 2026, the Mauritanian Regulatory Authority (ARE) has mandated that all SIM cards (including eSIMs) must be linked to biometric identification. If you are purchasing a new device or SIM, you must provide biometric data to avoid service suspension.
Mattel Mauritania: "Best Coverage" Bundles
Mattel is currently competing heavily on data volume and "Turbo" packs.
* Monthly Data King: A popular high-volume plan is the 30GB bundle (plus 150 SMS and 12 hours of talk time) for approximately $34 USD (roughly 1,350 MRU) valid for 30 days.
* Mid-Range Option: 15GB of data, 100 SMS, and 5 hours of talk time for about $17 USD (approx. 675 MRU).
* Short-Term "Flash": Small data bursts like 1GB for 24 hours are available for roughly $8 USD, often used as a stop-gap for heavy social media use.
Chinguitel: Modernized 4G/5G Transition
Having recently completed a massive network upgrade in Nouakchott with Huawei, Chinguitel is focusing on speed.
* Broadband Boost: Following their base station modernization, Chinguitel is offering "4G+" bundles that are significantly faster in the capital.
* App-Exclusive Deals: Users topping up via the Chinguitel digital portal often see better data-per-Ouguiya rates than standard scratch cards.
Moov Mauritel: The Market Leader
Mauritel leverages its extensive coverage and connection to the Morocco Telecom group.
* Libon Integration: For those with family abroad, Mauritel remains the easiest network to top up internationally, with specialized data packages like 2.5GB for roughly $6 USD.
* Moov Money Promos: Using Moov Money for recharges often unlocks "Double Credit" or extra data volumes during weekend windows.
Retail Smartphone Prices (Nouakchott)
Prices in Mauritania are often quoted in the New Ouguiya (MRU).
* High-End Flagships: The iPhone 17 Pro Max and iPhone 16 Pro are available in Nouakchott's premium boutiques. A brand new iPhone 16 Pro (128GB) is currently listed around 55,000 – 60,000 MRU.
* Samsung Galaxy Deals: * Galaxy S25 Ultra: Retailing for approximately 52,000 MRU.
* Galaxy A56 5G: A popular mid-range choice at 14,500 MRU.
* Galaxy A07: The entry-level favorite for 2026, priced near 4,500 – 5,500 MRU.
* Used Market (OpenSooq): A thriving second-hand market exists for older flagships. An iPhone 13 (128GB) in excellent condition can be found for roughly 18,000 – 22,000 MRU.
Connectivity News & Trends
* Satellite Internet Tender: In late January 2026, Mauritania launched an international tender for satellite internet licenses. While Starlink is not yet fully public, it is expected to launch commercially later this year, which may force mobile operators to lower their data prices further.
* eSIM Availability: eSIM is now supported by the major carriers, though the biometric registration process remains a mandatory step for activation.
Major Network & Data Offers (February 2026)
Biometric Requirement Note: As of January 2026, the Mauritanian Regulatory Authority (ARE) has mandated that all SIM cards (including eSIMs) must be linked to biometric identification. If you are purchasing a new device or SIM, you must provide biometric data to avoid service suspension.
Mattel Mauritania: "Best Coverage" Bundles
Mattel is currently competing heavily on data volume and "Turbo" packs.
* Monthly Data King: A popular high-volume plan is the 30GB bundle (plus 150 SMS and 12 hours of talk time) for approximately $34 USD (roughly 1,350 MRU) valid for 30 days.
* Mid-Range Option: 15GB of data, 100 SMS, and 5 hours of talk time for about $17 USD (approx. 675 MRU).
* Short-Term "Flash": Small data bursts like 1GB for 24 hours are available for roughly $8 USD, often used as a stop-gap for heavy social media use.
Chinguitel: Modernized 4G/5G Transition
Having recently completed a massive network upgrade in Nouakchott with Huawei, Chinguitel is focusing on speed.
* Broadband Boost: Following their base station modernization, Chinguitel is offering "4G+" bundles that are significantly faster in the capital.
* App-Exclusive Deals: Users topping up via the Chinguitel digital portal often see better data-per-Ouguiya rates than standard scratch cards.
Moov Mauritel: The Market Leader
Mauritel leverages its extensive coverage and connection to the Morocco Telecom group.
* Libon Integration: For those with family abroad, Mauritel remains the easiest network to top up internationally, with specialized data packages like 2.5GB for roughly $6 USD.
* Moov Money Promos: Using Moov Money for recharges often unlocks "Double Credit" or extra data volumes during weekend windows.
Retail Smartphone Prices (Nouakchott)
Prices in Mauritania are often quoted in the New Ouguiya (MRU).
* High-End Flagships: The iPhone 17 Pro Max and iPhone 16 Pro are available in Nouakchott's premium boutiques. A brand new iPhone 16 Pro (128GB) is currently listed around 55,000 – 60,000 MRU.
* Samsung Galaxy Deals: * Galaxy S25 Ultra: Retailing for approximately 52,000 MRU.
* Galaxy A56 5G: A popular mid-range choice at 14,500 MRU.
* Galaxy A07: The entry-level favorite for 2026, priced near 4,500 – 5,500 MRU.
* Used Market (OpenSooq): A thriving second-hand market exists for older flagships. An iPhone 13 (128GB) in excellent condition can be found for roughly 18,000 – 22,000 MRU.
Connectivity News & Trends
* Satellite Internet Tender: In late January 2026, Mauritania launched an international tender for satellite internet licenses. While Starlink is not yet fully public, it is expected to launch commercially later this year, which may force mobile operators to lower their data prices further.
* eSIM Availability: eSIM is now supported by the major carriers, though the biometric registration process remains a mandatory step for activation.
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