Area Code 288 – Baz/Komsi/Gurrë/Xibër, Mat

Overview of Area Code +355 288

Area code 288 is a geographic dialing code within the Albanian national numbering plan, assigned to the administrative region of Mat, specifically covering the localities of Baz, Komsi, Gurrë, and Xibër. These areas are situated in the northeastern part of Albania, within the Mat District of the Dibër County. The code is used for fixed-line (PSTN) services, and numbers under this prefix typically have a total length of 8 digits when dialed domestically, including the leading trunk prefix '0'.

Dialing Format

For callers within Albania, the national dialing format is 0 288 XXX XX, where the initial '0' is the trunk prefix used to access the national network. For international callers, the country code for Albania is +355, and the trunk prefix '0' is omitted. Therefore, the international format becomes +355 288 XXX XX. It is important to note that the number of subscriber digits may vary, but the total number of digits after the country code (including area code) remains 8.

Geographic Coverage and Administrative Jurisdiction

The area code 288 serves the Baz and Komsi administrative units, as well as the villages of Gurrë and Xibër, which are part of the larger Mat municipality. The region is characterized by mountainous terrain and is known for its historical significance and natural landscapes. The main economic activities include agriculture and small-scale local enterprises. The town of Burrel, the administrative center of Mat, is nearby, but it may use a different area code (typically 217).

Overlay and Numbering Considerations

As of the latest updates to the Albanian numbering plan, there are no overlay codes for the 288 area. Each geographic region in Albania has a unique area code, and numbers are allocated by the Electronic and Postal Communications Authority (AKEP). Subscribers within the same area code can dial the local subscriber number without the area code, but it is recommended to always use the full national format to avoid confusion, especially when calling from mobile phones.

Caller Instructions

For local callers within the 288 area, dial the subscriber number directly (e.g., XXX XX). For callers from other parts of Albania, dial 0 288 XXX XX. For international callers, dial +355 288 XXX XX (or 00355 288 XXX XX from many European countries). Ensure you replace 'XXX XX' with the actual subscriber number. When calling from a mobile phone in Albania, it is advisable to include the area code even if you are in the same region, as mobile numbers are non-geographic and require full national dialing.