The number 98 is the official international Country Calling Code for the nation of Iran.
If you receive a call, text message, or encounter a number starting with +98, the communication is originating from the Islamic Republic of Iran. Iran is one of the world’s most populous countries in the Middle East and Central Asia and operates a closed numbering plan where all national numbers are 10 digits long (following the +98 code).
This article details the location, the correct complex dialing format, the time zone, and essential safety tips for handling the +98 code.
Location of Country Code +98: Iran
The +98 code covers the entire country of Iran, with its capital and largest city being Tehran.
| Detail | Information |
| Code Type: | International Country Calling Code (Not a NANP Area Code) |
| Country: | Iran (Islamic Republic of Iran) |
| Continent: | Asia (Middle East) |
| Capital City: | Tehran |
| Time Zone: | Iran Standard Time (IRST), which is UTC/GMT +3:30 hours. |
Major Cities and Area Codes within Iran
Iranian phone numbers typically consist of a 2- or 3-digit area code and a 7- or 8-digit local number, totaling 10 digits in the national number.
| Major City/Region | Area Code (Dial After +98) |
| Tehran (Capital) | 21 |
| Mashhad (Northeast) | 51 |
| Isfahan (Central) | 31 |
| Tabriz (Northwest) | 41 |
| Shiraz (South) | 71 |
| Mobile Phones (All Regions) | 9XX (The first three digits are the operator prefix) |
Time Zone Comparison
Iran Standard Time (IRST, UTC+3:30) is unique because it is offset by a half-hour from standard time zones.
- Comparison to US Eastern Time (EST): Iran is 8 hours and 30 minutes ahead of EST.
How to Call Iran Using the +98 Code
Calling Iran internationally requires careful attention to the correct sequence, including the exit code and the area code.
Step-by-Step Dialing Instructions (From the US/Canada):
- Dial the International Exit Code: Use 011 (standard for the US/Canada) or the universal plus sign (+) on a mobile phone.
- Dial the Iran Country Code: Enter 98.
- Dial the Area Code: Enter the 2- or 3-digit city area code (e.g., 21 for Tehran).
- Dial the Local Number: Enter the remaining 7 or 8 digits.
International Exit Code+98+Area Code+Local Number
Example (Calling a Tehran Landline from the US): (8 local digits)
Security Advice and Scam Risk
While many calls from Iran are legitimate, there have been reports of unsolicited calls and texts originating from the +98 code, and all international calls should be approached cautiously.
- Callback Scams: Some forum reports suggest missed calls from +98 are a variant of the “one-ring” scam, where the goal is to entice you to call back and incur high per-minute charges.
- Premium Rate Fraud: Certain premium-rate services in Iran may be associated with fraud.
Safety Rule:
Do not call back a missed or unexpected call from a +98 number. If the caller is legitimate (business, friend, or family), they will leave a verifiable message or contact you through another means. Always check your international calling rates before dialing any number outside the NANP.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Is 98 an area code in the US?
No. The number 98 is the international country code for Iran. No US or Canadian area code begins with 98.
What is the national number length in Iran?
All Iranian national phone numbers, including the area code, are a total of 10 digits long. For example, Tehran’s area code (21) plus its 8-digit local number equals 10 digits.
Can I use my mobile phone in Iran?
Yes, but you will need an international roaming plan from your carrier, or you can purchase a local SIM card (often recommended for cost savings) from Iranian operators like Irancell or Hamrah Aval.
Conclusion
The +98 Country Code is the correct international dialing prefix for Iran, with calls requiring the country code plus a 10-digit national number (including a 2-3 digit area code). Be highly aware of the large time difference () and exercise caution with any unsolicited calls from this international code.
