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Country Facts
Working week:Monday – Friday
08:00 – 17:00
Driving:Drive on Right side of the road
Area:322,463 sq. km
Population:23,919,000
Capital City:Yamoussoukro
Language:French
Religion:Islam 39%
Christianity 33%
African Indigenous 28%
GDP:$1,938 per capita
Time Zone:GMT (UTC+0)

Cote D’Ivoire

Relocation Africa has been servicing Abidjan in Cote D’Ivoire for 11 years successfully.  We have serviced outlying locations for adhoc projects but these will incur an additional fees.  With larger projects in outlying areas we are able to recruit and train a consultant within 4 – 6 weeks.

Climate

The coastal region, where temperatures stay fairly constant be- tween 23°C to 27°C, is dry for most of the year, experiencing an intensely wet rainy season between mid-May and mid-July.

Accommodation

The majority of suitable expat housing is located within certain areas and often within secure estates or “compounds” which are monitored by security guards or security companies.

Schooling

There are 2 international schools located in Abidjan. One offers the American curriculum and the other the British curriculum.

Healthcare

Medical treatment in Abidjan is of reasonable standard, but private care is expensive, and facilities outside the major towns are very limited. It is advisable to choose private clinics over government hospitals, as they will have modern medical equipment. If you are being treated, you should bring all medications and prescription drugs (in their original containers) with you. There is also a risk of malaria. Take measures to avoid insect bites. A yellow fever vaccination is required for entry. It is always advisable to check the current vaccination requirements with your GP.

Shops

In Abidjan most residential areas have small shopping areas. There are 3 supermarkets for imported products. Fruit and veg can be bought from street markets. Brands often change or might be unavailable for weeks due to customs and transport.

Culture

Ivorians are generally relaxed, forgiving, easy- going and cosmopolitan people and in a country with more foreigners as a percentage of the population than almost anywhere else in the world, people are used to interactions with non- nationals. But making an effort will help make a good impression and add to the strength of initial relationships.

Hospitality

Hospitality is an important part of Ivorian culture and Abidjan has a broad range of high-quality restaurants. You’ll be expected to pay if you do the inviting. When handing over anything to anyone use the right hand; If you use your hands then scoop the food with the thumb and first two fingers of the right hand. Do not use your left hand.

Greetings

The basic physical greeting is the handshake.
As you get on slightly friendlier terms, women-to- women and men-to-women greet with French style cheek kisses; three alternative pecks, starting by heading right (touching left cheeks). Unlike in the West, there is a basic anticipation that you will verbally greet people you come across. When asking for directions start with ‘bonjour’. Titles and last names are preferable to first names when greeting or introducing.

Money

The unit of currency is the West African Franc (CFA). The best currencies to bring are US dollars, UK pounds or euros. It is advisable to exchange these for the local currency as soon as possible. As there are only a few ATMs, you should have cash with you, but only what you need for the day. Credit cards are accepted in hotels, restaurants and some stores. Travellers’ cheques in USD or euros and bank cards are accepted only in large banks in Abidjan. Fraud occurs frequently.

Transportation

An International Driving Permit is required how- ever it is common practice for expats to employ a driver. Public transport is limited and not recommended. Taxis, except for metered orange taxis in Abidjan, are risky and often unroadworthy. Buses are overcrowded and best avoided.

Safety

The political situation in Ivory Coast is volatile and demonstrations can occur unexpectedly between supporters of the rival presidential candidates. Take care in public places and avoid crowds. Careful personal security arrangements should be made. Violent crime is on the increase, including armed break-ins, car jackings, muggings and hold-ups in restaurants. Evening rush hour on Abidjan’s Charles de Gaulle Bridge is particularly dangerous. Be aware of con-men and touts when arriving at Abidjan airport. There is a heightened risk of serious crimes after dark. Schedules and travel patterns should be varied.

Other

Business in the Ivory Coast is fairly formal with punctuality a must, though more casual cotton suits are acceptable attire. Business is often conducted in French, but translators are readily available. Greet- ing and acknowledging each person present with a handshake is important. Photographing military or government installations is forbidden in Ivory Coast. Homosexual activity is tolerated but should not be demonstrated in public or cause public disorder.

Our Services for Abidjan, Cote D’Ivoire:

Immigration

We are able to offer full immigration and consular services in Ivory Coast.

Mobility
Orientation, Home Search, School Search, Tenancy Management, Spousal Support, Departure Services and Settling in Services.

Research
Housing Surveys, Cost of Living Surveys, Schooling and Vehicle Surveys.

Remuneration
Administration on International Payment and Payroll Services

 For all enquiries e-mail info@relocationafrica.com.