The two-letter code MU is the globally recognized abbreviation for the Republic of Mauritius. This code is a crucial international identifier used across postal services, financial systems, and internet domains.
The direct answer is that the country code MU represents Mauritius, an independent island nation located off the southeast coast of the African continent in the Indian Ocean. Its unique international dialing code is +230.
This article details the official identifiers for Mauritius, clarifies its location, and provides the necessary dialing information for calling from abroad.
Official Identifiers for Mauritius (MU)
The MU code is the Alpha-2 standard set by the International Organization for Standardization (ISO).
| Identifier Type | Code | Purpose |
| 2-Letter Abbreviation (Alpha-2) | MU | Used for domain names (.mu) and software localization. |
| 3-Letter Abbreviation (Alpha-3) | MUS | Used in banking (SWIFT codes) and financial reporting. |
| International Calling Code | +230 | The unique prefix required for all inbound telephone calls. |
Geographic and Telephony Details
The MU code represents a nation that operates a closed numbering plan, meaning there are no regional area codes needed for international dialing.
Location and Time Zone
- Location: Indian Ocean (East Africa).
- Capital City: Port Louis.
- Time Zone: Mauritius Time (MUT), which is UTC/GMT +4 hours year-round. Mauritius does not observe Daylight Saving Time.
Dialing Rules for +230
To call Mauritius from any country, use the international dialing code +230 followed by the local number.
- National Number Length: Mauritian phone numbers are typically 7 or 8 digits Mobile numbers usually start with the digit 5.
Example (Calling a Mobile in Mauritius from the US):
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What is the time difference when calling Mauritius?
Mauritius (UTC+4) is typically 8 hours ahead of U.S. Eastern Standard Time (EST). You should plan calls accordingly (e.g., call in the morning in the US to reach Mauritius in the afternoon).
Does the MU country code use area codes?
No. Once you dial the country code +230, you dial the local 7- or 8-digit number directly. No additional regional area code is required.
Is MU connected to any other country codes?
The code +230 is unique to Mauritius. The code +262 is the code for the nearby island territories of Réunion and Mayotte.
Conclusion
The MU country code is the official abbreviation for Mauritius. When dialing, always use the +230 prefix followed by the full 7- or 8-digit local number. Understanding this code is the first step toward effective and informed international communication.
