Mauritania
Emerging Investment and Resource Partner with Strategic Development Cooperation
- Band cut
- ≥ 40
- Countries in band
- 104
The seven measures behind Mauritania's 46
Each is scored 0–100, where higher is always better. Open a row to read the analysis behind its number.
| Measure | Score | Position on 0–100 |
|---|---|---|
| 45 | ||
| 85 | ||
| 55 | ||
| 35 | ||
| 5 | ||
| 70 | ||
| 35 |
Bonus considerations — useful, but they do not affect the score
These two are worked out for every country as context for a trip. They are not part of the 46 above, and nothing here can move it in either direction.
Higher means cheaper for an Indian traveller.
Higher means easier to eat vegetarian.
Why Mauritania?
The standing assessment behind the public sentiment reading of 85, rewritten at each refresh.
India-Mauritania relations continue to be characterized by exceptional warmth, robust diplomatic engagement, and a mutual desire for deeper collaboration. Diplomatic and official rhetoric from Mauritania consistently underscores 'long-standing ties of friendship and collaboration' and expresses strong interest in India's expertise and investment across key sectors such as port development, oil exploration, mining, power, agriculture, pharmaceuticals, engineering, and education. The historic State visit by India's President Droupadi Murmu in October 2024 significantly boosted bilateral ties, leading to the signing of several Memorandums of Understanding (MoUs) encompassing diplomat training, visa exemption, Foreign Office Consultations (FOC), and a Cultural Exchange Programme for 2024-2028. The establishment of Mauritania's Mission in New Delhi in July 2025 and ongoing utilization of India's Lines of Credit, ITEC slots, and ICCR scholarships further cement this dedicated partnership and development cooperation. The explicit recognition of 'cordial and friendly relations since its independence' by official Indian sources, which incorporate Mauritanian perspectives, underscores the enduring perception of India as a 'trusted friend'.
Reasons to visit
For the adventurous Indian traveler seeking an untamed frontier, Mauritania beckons as a truly off-the-beaten-path destination. With a low popularity score, it offers an unparalleled opportunity to explore a land largely untouched by mass tourism, providing an authentic and profound cultural experience. While its safety score suggests careful planning is essential, those who venture will be rewarded with the genuine warmth of its people, contributing to a moderately high Friendliness Index especially in rural communities. Imagine immersing yourself in ancient nomadic traditions, exploring vast, serene deserts, and discovering hidden oases, all while being welcomed with traditional hospitality. It's a journey for those who crave more than just a holiday; it's an expedition into the heart of West African and Arab culture, a place where time seems to slow down and every interaction becomes a story.
Where Indian travellers go
- 1Chinguetti (Ancient Ksar City & Libraries)
- 2Adrar Region (Gateway to the Sahara Desert, including Terjit Oasis)
- 3Banc d'Arguin National Park (UNESCO World Heritage Site & Bird Sanctuary)
Worth knowing
- Mauritania is home to the world's longest and heaviest train, a 2.5-kilometer-long iron ore train that traverses the desert from Zouérat to Nouadhibou.
- The country boasts several ancient Ksar (fortified village) cities, including Chinguetti and Ouadane, which are UNESCO World Heritage sites renowned for their medieval desert libraries containing priceless Islamic manuscripts.
- A significant portion of Mauritania is covered by the Sahara Desert, including the spectacular 'Eye of the Sahara' or Richat Structure, a prominent circular feature visible from space, believed to be a deeply eroded domed structure.
In the record
- Band
- Neutral / Developing
- Trade rank
- 124
- Trade volume
- $0.2B
- Share of India’s trade
- 0.02%
- GDP
- $11.7B