Tunisia | Africa

Tunisia is situated on the northernmost tip of Africa, bordering Algeria to the west and Libya to the southeast. The nation is defined by its 1,300-kilometer Mediterranean coastline and its role as a major exporter of phosphates and olive oil. The capital city is Tunis.

History & Culture

Tunisia gained independence from France in 1956, followed by the long-term presidencies of Habib Bourguiba and Zine El Abidine Ben Ali, and the 2011 Jasmine Revolution. Sunni Islam is the state religion (99%). Independence Day (March 20) is the primary national holiday. Social etiquette emphasizes hospitality, though modest dress is required in religious sites, and public consumption of food during Ramadan is legally restricted in certain contexts.

Language & Communication

The official language is Arabic. English proficiency is low to medium, with higher usage in tourist zones and among the younger urban population; French is the primary language of commerce and administration. The local dialect is Tunisian Darija.

Population & Economy

The population is approximately 12.5 million, with 69% urban and 31% rural distribution. Top three export commodities are insulated wiring, clothing/textiles, and olive oil. GDP per capita is approximately $4,400 USD. The services sector, particularly tourism, is the primary driver of the labor market.

Visa & Entry Policy

Citizens of the EU, US, and UK do not require a visa for stays up to 90 days. There is no formal E-Visa system for these holders; entry is granted via a passport stamp. Strictness is high regarding currency declaration and the prohibition of exporting Tunisian Dinars.

Currency & Payment Systems

The currency is the Tunisian Dinar (TND). Tunisia is a cash-heavy society; TND is a closed currency and cannot be imported or exported. While cards are accepted in major hotels and upscale Tunis retailers, cash is mandatory for markets, taxis, and rural transit. ATMs are pervasive in cities but limited in Saharan regions.

National Transport Grid

Intercity travel is managed by the SNCFT rail network (connecting Tunis, Sousse, and Sfax) and the SNTRI national bus company. "Louages" (shared white minibuses with colored stripes) are the standard for high-frequency, long-distance terrestrial transit. Domestic flights via Tunisair Express connect Tunis to Djerba and Tozeur.

Digital Infrastructure

Primary mobile network providers are Ooredoo, Tunisie Telecom, and Orange Tunisie. 4G coverage is reliable across 95% of the country, including most coastal and urban areas. 5G deployment is active in major economic hubs as of 2025.

Climate & Seasonality

The north has a Mediterranean climate with mild, rainy winters and hot, dry summers. The south is arid and Saharan. The wet season occurs from October to May, while the peak dry season spans June to August.

Health & Safety

No vaccines are mandatory for entry. Malaria is not present, but travelers should carry insect repellent for West Nile Virus prevention in rural areas. The emergency numbers are 197 for Police, 190 for Ambulance (SAMU), and 198 for Civil Protection.

Top 3 Major Regions & Cities

Northern Coast (History/Economy): Hub city is Tunis.

Sahel Region (Tourism/Industry): Hub city is Sousse.

Southern Sahara (Oasis/Film): Hub city is Tozeur.

Local Cost Index

1L Water: 0.90 TND ($0.29 USD)

1 Domestic Beer: 5.00 TND ($1.60 USD)

1 Sim Card (10GB Data Plan): 30.00 TND ($9.60 USD)

Facts & Legends

Tunisia’s city of Kairouan is considered the fourth holiest city in Islam after Mecca, Medina, and Jerusalem; according to local tradition, seven pilgrimages to the Great Mosque of Kairouan are regarded as equivalent to one Hajj to Mecca.