Area Code 5289 – Dakhla/Laayoune

Overview of Area Code 5289 in Morocco

Area code 5289 is a geographic National Destination Code (NDC) assigned to the southern region of Morocco, specifically covering the cities of Dakhla and Laayoune. This code is part of the Moroccan public switched telephone network (PSTN) and is used for fixed-line services. The region is administratively part of the Moroccan provinces in the Western Sahara territory, with Laayoune serving as the major urban center and Dakhla located further south along the Atlantic coast.

Geographic Coverage and Administration

The 5289 area code serves both Laayoune and Dakhla, which are separated by approximately 500 kilometers. Despite the distance, they share the same NDC due to historical and administrative numbering arrangements. The code is managed by the Agence Nationale de Réglementation des Télécommunications (ANRT), Morocco's regulatory authority, which oversees the national numbering plan in accordance with ITU-T E.164 recommendations.

Dialing Formats

For local calls within the 5289 area, callers must dial the full national number, which includes the trunk prefix '0', the area code '5289', and the subscriber number. The subscriber number length in Morocco is typically 6 digits for fixed lines, making the total national significant number (NSN) 9 digits (excluding the leading '0'). Thus, a local call would be dialed as: 05289XXXXX.

For international callers, the format requires the country code '+212', followed by the area code without the leading '0', and the subscriber number. For example, to call a fixed line in Laayoune from abroad, you would dial: +212 5289 XXXXX. It is crucial to omit the trunk prefix '0' when dialing from outside Morocco.

Overlay and Numbering Considerations

As of now, there is no overlay code for the 5289 area; the region uses a single NDC. However, due to the growing demand for telecommunication services in the region, the ANRT may introduce additional numbering resources in the future. Callers should always verify the correct number length and format with their service provider or the recipient to avoid misdialing.

Usage and Practical Information

This area code is primarily used for fixed-line services, including residential and business lines. It is not used for mobile services, which have their own dedicated prefixes (e.g., 06, 07). For businesses operating in Dakhla or Laayoune, having a local fixed-line number with the 5289 code can enhance local presence and trust. For tourists or foreign businesses, it is important to note that calls to this region are billed as national calls when dialed from within Morocco, and international rates apply when dialing from abroad.