The Islamic Republic of Mauritania

Thieboudienne, a dish of fish and rice, is widely enjoyed in Mauritania alongside couscous and meat dishes.

Nouakchott grew from a tiny settlement into one of the largest cities in the Sahara region.

Sharing mint tea is an important social tradition in Mauritania, bringing people together to enjoy conversation and good company.

The Banc d’Arguin National Park is a UNESCO World Heritage Site known for its rich birdlife and coastal ecosystems.

Arabic is the official language, and national languages include Pulaar, Soninke and Wolof.

Mauritania’s traditional garments – the melfa for women and the daraa for men – are central to cultural identity.

Livestock herding, especially camels, cattle and goats, remains a major livelihood for rural communities.

Zrig is a traditional Mauritanian drink made from fermented milk mixed with water and sugar, often using camel milk.

The Richat Structure (“Eye of the Sahara”) is so large that astronauts use it as a landmark from space.

Mauritania’s national football team is nicknamed Les Mourabitounes and represents the country in major African competitions.

The Heritage Cities Festival celebrates Mauritanian culture through traditional music, poetry and artistic performances.

Mauritania’s traditional music uses the ardin, a harp played exclusively by women in Moorish culture.