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Useful Information

A to Z

ATMs:

ATMs are widely available in Tunis and accept major international cards such as Visa and MasterCard. Withdrawal limits vary (often max ~800 TND per transaction), and fees/commissions of around 10–12 TND per withdrawal may apply. Your bank may also charge international fees. Western Union and MoneyGram are also available.

Banks:

Most banks are open Monday through Friday from 8:00 AM to 4:00 PM, with some offering extended or Saturday hours in central locations. For further details, while in Tunis, please consult your hotel concierge.

Climate:

In June, the average temperature in Tunis is 24°C, with lows around 20°C and highs reaching 30°C.

Credit Cards:

Visa and Mastercard are the most widely accepted credit card networks in Tunisia, particularly in hotels, larger restaurants, shops in tourist areas, and airports. Some places also accept other cards or payment methods but more sparingly. Always check if the business explicitly shows the card logo. However, having Tunisian cash on hand is advisable, as many vendors (especially taxis and small shops) only take cash.

Currency:

The currency in Tunisia is the Tunisian dinar (TND or DT), subdivided into 1000 millimes (coin) rather than 100. The exchange rate is determined by the Central Bank of Tunisia; currently, 1 EUR ≈ 3.38 TND. Currency exchange services (Euros/USD to TND) are available at banks and bureaux de change in the arrivals hall of Tunis-Carthage International Airport. Additionally, the hotel venue is equipped with an ATM where you can withdraw Tunisian dinars directly using your Euro or USD-linked card.

Disabled Persons:

If you have any special needs or mobility concerns, please inform the Conference Secretariat.

Emergencies:

Tunisia’s general emergency numbers are 197 (police), 190 (ambulance), and 198 (fire brigade). English-speaking assistance may be limited, so consider asking your hotel for help in emergencies.

Electricity:

Electricity is 230 V/50 Hz. Tunisia uses Type C and Type E plugs. Type C has two round pins, while Type E has two round pins with a hole for the socket’s earthing pin.

Healthcare:

Healthcare in Tunisia, particularly in Tunis, is accessible for tourists, with private clinics providing reliable and high-quality care. However, it is not free, and all medical services must be paid for upfront, so travel insurance is highly recommended. Public hospitals are available but may have limited resources compared to private facilities.

Language:

The official language in Tunis is Arabic, specifically Tunisian Arabic (also known as Derja), which is the local dialect. French is widely spoken in daily life, while English is commonly understood, particularly in tourist areas and among younger Tunisians.

Local time:

The local time zone in Tunis in June is 1 hour ahead of Greenwich Mean Time (GMT + 1 hour).

Safety in Tunis

Tunis enjoys low crime rates, and it is in general safe to walk around the area of the meeting. However, as with any large city or unfamiliar destination please take sensible precautions when moving around and looking after your possessions. It is your individual responsibility to check your country’s travel advice. If you don’t want to walk, the easiest way to travel is to use ride-hailing apps like Yassir.

Taxis:

Taxis are widely available and inexpensive. Always ask the driver to use the meter (“compteur”). Avoid unofficial taxis or drivers who refuse to turn it on. For added security and convenience, consider using ride-hailing apps like Yassir.

Travel Insurance

We always recommend people travelling secure their own travel insurance, to cover as a minimum hospitalisation and medical care, theft and issues with delays or sickness leading to an inability to travel to the conference or return to work directly afterwards.

Telecommunications:

The international access code for Tunisia is +216. Tunisia uses GSM technology, so most European mobile phones will work. Roaming charges apply unless you use a local SIM card, which is easily available at the airport or local shops. For more information concerning mobile phone use in Tunisia, please ask your provider.

Visa:

Tunisia allows visa-free entry for short stays (typically up to 90 days) to citizens of many countries, including EU member states, the UK, Canada, the USA, and others. These travellers do not need a visa to enter Tunisia and are only required to present a valid passport. However, citizens of countries not on the exemption list must obtain a visa prior to arrival through a Tunisian diplomatic mission. For more detailed and up-to-date information, please visit:

Participants to the conference, are highly recommended to start the process for their visa application (if required) the soonest possible, as this might be a time consuming procedure. Find out more about getting an official invitation letter here.