Area Code 296 – Fushë-Bulqizë/Shupenzë/Zerqan, Bulqizë
The phone area code for Fushë-Bulqizë/Shupenzë/Zerqan, Bulqizë is 296 (international format +355296). Browse local exchange codes (NXX) and carrier assignments below.
📞 Exchange Codes (NXX) for Area Code 296
Select a central office code to view local carrier data and detailed information
📍 Geographic Location of Fushë-Bulqizë/Shupenzë/Zerqan, Bulqizë
Overview of Area Code 296 (Albania)
Area code 296 is a geographic National Destination Code (NDC) assigned to the Bulqizë region in northeastern Albania. Specifically, it serves the municipalities of Fushë-Bulqizë, Shupenzë, and Zerqan, which are part of the administrative jurisdiction of Bulqizë Municipality in Dibër County. This code is used for fixed-line (PSTN) services within this mountainous area, known for its chromium mining and agricultural activities.
Geographic Coverage and Administrative Jurisdiction
The code 296 covers a rural and semi-urban district situated along the Drin River valley and the slopes of the Korab and Deshat mountains. The primary towns and villages include the administrative centers of Fushë-Bulqizë (the main town), Shupenzë, and Zerqan, along with smaller settlements such as Gjorica and Ternova. The area is part of the Dibër County, which borders North Macedonia to the east. The region's economy is largely based on mining (chromium), agriculture, and small-scale trade.
Dialing Formats
When calling a fixed-line number in this area, the standard national format is:
- National dialing (within Albania): 0 296 XXX XX (the leading 0 is the trunk prefix)
- International dialing (from abroad): +355 296 XXX XX (omit the leading 0)
For example, a local number might be 0 296 4 12 34 when dialed from within Albania, and +355 296 4 12 34 when dialed from another country. Subscriber numbers in this area typically consist of 5 to 6 digits after the area code, depending on the specific exchange and historical numbering assignments.
Caller Instructions
For local callers (within Albania): If you are calling from another fixed-line or mobile phone in Albania, you must always include the trunk prefix 0 followed by the area code 296 and the subscriber number. For example, to call a number in Fushë-Bulqizë from Tirana, you would dial: 0 296 XXX XXX.
For international callers: When calling from outside Albania, you need to use your country's international access code (e.g., 00 from most European countries, 011 from the US/Canada), followed by Albania's country code +355, then the area code 296 without the leading 0, and finally the subscriber number. For instance, from the UK, you would dial: 00 355 296 XXX XXX.
Overlay and Numbering Considerations
As of the latest ITU-T E.164 national numbering plan, area code 296 does not have an overlay code. The region is served exclusively by this code for fixed-line services. However, due to the increasing use of VoIP and mobile services, some businesses may use non-geographic numbers or mobile prefixes for their primary contact lines. It is always advisable to confirm the correct number with the party you are trying to reach.
For any emergency or directory assistance services, the national emergency numbers (112 for general emergencies, 127 for police, 128 for medical) are accessible from any phone in Albania, regardless of the area code.