Living in Dakar: the ultimate expat guide

Dakar functions as Senegal's economic engine, concentrating the majority of the country's business activity, financial services, and international organizations. The job market offers opportunities across diverse sectors, though competition exists for skilled positions. Understanding work permit requirements and key industries helps expatriates navigate employment successfully.

Key Employment Sectors

The city's economy spans multiple growth sectors. Technology and fintech are expanding rapidly, with companies like Wave revolutionizing mobile payments. The oil and gas sector is creating thousands of jobs following significant offshore discoveries. Tourism and hospitality continue growing around cultural attractions. International development organizations maintain regional headquarters here, offering positions in humanitarian and development work. Mining, construction, and agriculture also drive demand for skilled professionals.

Work Permits and Visas

Foreign nationals working in Senegal for more than 90 days must obtain a work permit (Permis de Travail) and residence permit (Carte d'Identité d'Étranger). The process is employer-sponsored, meaning your Senegalese employer initiates the application with the Ministry of Labor. Work permits are typically issued for 2 years and are renewable. Citizens of ECOWAS member states are exempt from work permit requirements under the Lagos Treaty. Processing takes several weeks, so early application is advisable.

The table below summarizes key employment indicators:

Sources: Trading Economics, Playroll Global Hiring Guide

Dakar serves as West Africa's premier educational hub, hosting the region's largest French-speaking university and numerous specialized institutions. International students benefit from established exchange programs, affordable tuition compared to Western institutions, and opportunities to study French and African languages.

Cheikh Anta Diop University (UCAD)

Cheikh Anta Diop University (UCAD), founded in 1957, ranks among Africa's most prestigious institutions with over 80,000 students. Named after the renowned Senegalese historian and anthropologist, UCAD comprises six faculties: Economics and Management, Letters and Human Sciences, Science and Technology, Medicine and Pharmacy, Legal and Political Sciences, and Education. The university follows the LMD system (Licence, Master, Doctorate) and delivers instruction primarily in French. UCAD hosts numerous international exchange programs with universities in the United States, Europe, and across Africa.

Admission and Tuition

International students typically need a secondary school certificate equivalent to the French Baccalauréat and must demonstrate French proficiency at B1 level or above. The Institut de Français pour Etrangers (IFE) offers preparatory French courses. Tuition at public universities remains affordable, with annual fees ranging from XOF 50,000 to 150,000 (~USD 85–250) depending on the program. The academic year runs from October to July.

Additional institutions include Gaston Berger University in Saint-Louis, private business schools like ISM Dakar and BEM Dakar, and technical institutes offering specialized training. For official information, visit UCAD's official website.

Sources: Université Cheikh Anta Diop, World Higher Education Database (IAU)

Dakar offers excellent educational options for expatriate families, with international schools following various curricula including American, British, French, and International Baccalaureate programs. Most schools concentrate in expat-friendly neighborhoods like Almadies and Mermoz, providing quality education alongside diverse student bodies representing numerous nationalities.

International Schools Overview

The International School of Dakar (ISD), established in 1983, serves as the premier English-medium institution, offering the full IB continuum (PYP, MYP, Diploma) for students from Pre-K through Grade 12. With approximately 800 students from over 50 nationalities, ISD maintains small class sizes and a maximum of 20 students per class. Dakar Academy provides American-curriculum education with a Christian foundation, serving Pre-K through Grade 12 with a 7:1 student-to-teacher ratio.

Bilingual and Alternative Options

For bilingual education, International Bilingual School (IBS) combines Senegalese national curriculum with British/American elements. École Actuelle Bilingue (EBA) welcomes students from 35 different countries in a French-English environment. Enko Dakar International School offers the IB Middle Years and Diploma programs, serving as the first IB-authorized school in the Enko Education network.

The table below shows representative tuition fees:

Sources: International School of Dakar, U.S. Department of State

Finding suitable accommodation in Dakar requires understanding the city's distinct neighborhoods, each offering different lifestyles and price points. Most expatriates settle in the western and central-western areas of the Cap-Vert Peninsula, benefiting from proximity to international schools, embassies, and ocean views.

Popular Expat Neighborhoods

Almadies represents the most upscale area, favored by diplomats and executives for its ocean proximity, modern villas, international restaurants, and proximity to the U.S. Embassy. Expect premium rents but excellent amenities. Ngor offers a more bohemian coastal atmosphere with beaches popular for surfing, while remaining close to Almadies facilities. Mermoz and Fann attract families seeking quieter residential streets near the International School of Dakar. Point E appeals to students and young professionals given its proximity to Cheikh Anta Diop University. Plateau, the commercial downtown, suits professionals wanting urban convenience but sees heavy traffic.

Rental Costs and Process

Rental prices vary significantly by location and property type. Working with a local real estate agency simplifies the search process. Most landlords require 2-3 months deposit plus the first month's rent. Leases typically run for one year minimum. Utilities (electricity, water, internet) add approximately XOF 120,000–150,000 (~USD 200–250) monthly for a standard apartment.

Sources: Numbeo, Expat.com Dakar Guide

Dakar pulses with cultural energy, offering everything from UNESCO World Heritage sites to contemporary art galleries and legendary music venues. The city's position as a cultural crossroads provides expatriates with endless opportunities for exploration, relaxation, and authentic West African experiences.

Historical Sites and Museums

Gorée Island, a 20-minute ferry ride from downtown, stands as a powerful UNESCO World Heritage Site commemorating the Atlantic slave trade. The House of Slaves and its Door of No Return offer a profound historical experience. Back on the mainland, the African Renaissance Monument towers 52 meters high—taller than the Statue of Liberty—offering panoramic views from its observation deck. The Museum of Black Civilizations, opened in 2018, houses extensive collections documenting African history and culture. The Théodore Monod Museum of African Art (IFAN) displays over 9,000 artifacts from across West Africa.

Entertainment and Recreation

Dakar's beaches attract surfers to world-class breaks around Ngor Island, while swimmers enjoy calmer waters at Plage de Yoff. The Almadies nightlife district buzzes with restaurants and clubs featuring Mbalax music, Senegal's infectious rhythmic style. Hann Park offers 60 hectares of zoological gardens with African wildlife. Day trips to Lac Rose (Pink Lake) showcase stunning natural beauty, while Saly provides beach resort escapes an hour from the city. The annual Dak'Art Biennale draws international contemporary art enthusiasts every two years.

Sources: UNESCO World Heritage Centre, AroundUs Travel

Daily life in Dakar combines the vibrancy of a major African capital with coastal relaxation. The city operates at its own pace, influenced by Islamic traditions, family-centered culture, and the legendary Senegalese hospitality. Understanding transportation options and local customs helps expatriates adapt smoothly.

Transportation Options

Dakar has recently transformed its public transport with major infrastructure investments. The Bus Rapid Transit (BRT) system, launched in 2024, operates 121 electric buses along 18.3 km connecting 23 stations and 14 districts. This award-winning system reduces journey times from 95 to 45 minutes and serves 300,000 passengers daily. The Train Express Régional (TER) connects Dakar to Blaise Diagne International Airport. Traditional options include yellow taxis (negotiate fares before boarding), car rapides (colorful minibuses), and ride-hailing apps like Yango. Many expatriates eventually purchase or lease vehicles due to the city's spread.

Lifestyle and Culture

French serves as the official language, essential for daily interactions, though Wolof dominates informal communication. Learning basic Wolof phrases earns respect and facilitates connections. Most businesses observe Friday prayer times with many closing midday. The climate features a hot, humid rainy season (June–October) and a cooler dry season (November–May). Cash remains king, though mobile payment services like Orange Money and Wave are increasingly popular. Supermarkets like Auchan and Casino stock imported goods, while local markets offer fresh produce at lower prices.

Sources: ITDP (2025 Sustainable Transport Award), MobiliseYourCity

Living costs in Dakar vary significantly based on lifestyle choices and neighborhood. The city ranks among the more expensive in West Africa, particularly in expat-popular areas. However, local alternatives for food, transport, and services offer substantial savings compared to Western prices.

Monthly Budget for a Single Person

The table below estimates monthly expenses for a single expatriate living a moderate lifestyle in Dakar:

Monthly Budget for a Family of Four

Sources: Numbeo (December 2025)