How to Use the +221 Country Code: A Guide for SMBs and Startups

Whether you’re contacting a supplier in Dakar or working with a partner in Thiès, formatting Senegalese phone numbers correctly is essential for clear and reliable global communication.

This guide covers everything SMBs and startups need to know about the +221 country code, how to dial Senegal from abroad, and how DialLink ‘s cloud phone system makes it easier to stay connected with your international contacts.

What Is the 221 Country Code?

+221 is the country code for Senegal. It’s used when dialing Senegalese phone numbers from outside the country. The local numbering format consists of 9 digits and follows a consistent structure for both mobile and landline numbers.

Here’s how it breaks down:

• Country Code: +221
• Local Number: 9 digits (no area codes)

Senegal does not use regional area codes. Instead, the first digit of the local phone number typically indicates the type of service or carrier.

Common Pitfalls in International Number Formatting

Incorrect formatting of Senegalese phone numbers can result in failed calls or CRM syncing issues. Here are some key things to watch out for:

• Omitting the country code (+221): This is required for all international dialing and VoIP systems.
• Adding a local prefix like “0”: Senegalese numbers do not use a leading zero—avoid adding one when saving or dialing from abroad.
• Not using E.164 format: Business platforms and CRMs often require numbers in +221XXXXXXXXX format for reliable delivery and lookup.
• Assuming 1-800 or 1-888 numbers apply: These are North American toll-free prefixes and are not used in Senegal.

Standardizing phone numbers across platforms helps prevent failed calls, duplicated contacts, and integration errors.

Make International Calling Easy with DialLink

DialLink is an AI-powered cloud phone system designed for small businesses and startups that need a simple, reliable way to communicate across borders.

Here’s how DialLink supports international communication:

• Affordable international calling — no hidden charges or complex setups
• AI voice agents — automate support, scheduling, and follow-ups
• Multi-device access — make calls from desktop, mobile, or desk phone
• Built-in messaging — communicate with contacts in Senegal by text
• CRM and helpdesk integrations — streamline workflows and tracking

With DialLink, SMBs and startups can stay connected to Senegal and the rest of the world without enterprise-level costs or complexity.

Common Senegalese Number Format Examples

Note: Toll-free numbers in Senegal are accessible only domestically. International callers may not be able to reach them or may incur charges.

How to Read and Format Senegalese Numbers

Senegal uses a closed 9-digit national numbering plan. The format is consistent, with the first two digits of the local phone number indicating the operator or service type.

Standard structure:

• Format: +221 XX XXX XXXX
• Total Digits (after country code): 9
• Mobile Codes: 70, 75, 76, 77, 78
• Landline Codes: 30, 33

Format Variations

• International Format (E.164): +221771234567 — preferred for CRM and VoIP platforms
• Local Format (within Senegal): 77 123 4567
• International Dialing Format: 00 221 77 123 4567 — used from countries with “00” as their exit code

Best Practices for SMBs

• Store all Senegalese phone numbers in international format: +221XXXXXXXXX
• Never include a leading “0” in international formats
• Use E.164 formatting across your phone system, CRM, and messaging platforms
• Use CRM integrations to streamline contact enrichment and call tracking

These practices ensure better call success rates, professional presentation, and seamless automation across tools.