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Updated February 2026

Healthcare in Senegal

Clinics, insurance, emergency numbers and practical healthcare setup for international residents.

Setup timeline

1-2 weeks

Insurance

Recommended

Emergency

15 / 17 / 18 / 19

Difficulty

Easy to moderate

Emergency Numbers Insurance Basics

SAMU

15

Medical emergency number

Police

17

Police emergency number

Fire

18

Fire brigade number

Gendarmerie

19

Gendarmerie emergency number

Overview of Healthcare in Senegal for International residents

Private Clinics Preferred

Public vs Private Healthcare

Senegal’s public healthcare system is limited in resources and generally not recommended for International residents dealing with anything beyond minor issues. However, Dakar has a tier of well-equipped private clinics that provide reliable, professional care — and these are where virtually all International residents go for their health needs.

Affordable by European Standards

Typical Healthcare Costs

Costs are significantly lower than in Europe for private care: a GP consultation costs 15,000-30,000 XOF (~23-45 EUR). Specialists: 25,000-50,000 XOF. Lab tests and minor procedures are also very affordable by European standards. A good international insurance policy will cover these costs with no out-of-pocket expense.

Relocation Guide

Understanding the Relocation Process to Senegal

Before You Arrive

Before travelling to Senegal, ensure your passport is valid, understand visa requirements and prepare all necessary documents.

Keep digital and printed copies of important paperwork including passports, insurance documents and accommodation confirmations.

Finding Accommodation

Dakar offers a range of housing options suitable for students, professionals and families.

Almadies

Popular with international residents

Ngor

Beachside and vibrant

Mermoz

Central and convenient

Banking & Daily Life

Opening a local bank account is often one of the first steps after arrival. Most banks require identification and proof of address.

Mobile money is widely used across Senegal and provides a convenient way to make payments and transfers.

Quick Facts

Visa Required

Setup Time 4-6 Weeks

Housing €300+

Language French

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Best Clinics in Dakar for International residents

Clinique du Cap (Almadies)

The most recommended clinic for International residents in Dakar. Modern facilities, international standard of care, English-speaking staff available. Full range of specialists, laboratory, imaging. Recommended for GP visits, minor procedures, and referrals.

Institut Pasteur de Dakar

Renowned for laboratory services, vaccinations, and tropical disease diagnosis. Not a full hospital but excellent for diagnostics and preventive care.

Hopital Principal de Dakar

The largest and best-equipped public hospital in Senegal. Has a private wing used by International residents and diplomats. Accepts international insurance. Emergency services 24/7.

Clinique Suma Assistance

Popular for dentistry and specialist consultations. Reasonable prices.

Home Visit Option

SOS Medecins Dakar

House call service. A doctor comes to your home. Available 7 days a week. Useful for non-emergency situations when you are unwell and cannot travel.

Health Insurance for International residents

Coverage

International Insurance

International health insurance is strongly recommended before arriving. Local Senegalese insurance is available but rarely adequate for the coverage International residents need.

Key Requirement

Medical Evacuation

Your policy should include medical evacuation / repatriation coverage with a minimum of 100,000 EUR.

Tropical Disease Coverage

Essential Protection

Ensure coverage for malaria, dengue, typhoid, emergency dental care and direct billing with Dakar clinics.

Recommended Providers

Popular Insurance Providers

Recommended insurers often used by International residents in Francophone Africa: AXA International, Cigna Global, April International, Allianz Care. Compare plans before departing — rates are significantly better when you enroll from your home country.

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Emergencies, Pediatrics & Pharmacies

Emergency Numbers

SAMU (ambulance): 15 | Police 17 | Fire 18 | SAMU (medical) 15 | Gendarmerie 19. In a serious emergency, go directly to Hopital Principal (private wing) or Clinique du Cap. Do not rely on SAMU ambulances in non-central areas — response times vary significantly.

For families and pediatrics

Clinique du Cap has pediatricians. Clinique de la Madeleine is also well-regarded for children. Ask your concierge for a vetted pediatrician referral in your neighborhood.

Pharmacies

Pharmacies are widespread in Dakar. Most common medications are available. Pharmacies de garde (duty pharmacies open 24/7) are posted on pharmacy doors and on local health websites. Brand names may differ from home — always carry the international generic name (INN) of any critical medication you use.

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Legal structures, registration steps, documents and timeline for setting up a formal business in Senegal.

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