Tunisia is on the northernmost tip of Africa, where Europe and the Arab world meet. When moving to Tunisia, you might not be sure what to expect from this relatively small country, but you’ll probably be pleasantly surprised by how varied its geography and cultures are.
Tunisia has wooded hills of the north, olive-producing coastal plains of the Sahel, dry interior steppes, and the Sahara and salt lakes of the south. Most visitors come for the warm beaches and coastal resorts, but the ancient ruins of Carthage and the capital, Tunis, are big draws as well.
Living in Tunisia as an expat
Most newcomers find that living in Tunisia as an expat is more straightforward than they expected. France has by far the largest foreign community here, and most of it is based in and around Tunis, so you’re likely to hear French wherever you go. The official language of Tunisia is Arabic, but French is widely spoken in social and business settings, and most Tunisian doctors speak fluent French.
Be aware of the political situation and follow the news for developments regarding protests, as well as heightened security measures at Libyan and Algerian borders due to terrorist threats. The local souks are beautiful, but stay alert to pickpockets in these crowded marketplaces. Women may also experience harassment from men on the streets. Dress modestly, especially around religious sites, both as a sign of respect and, in some cases, to avoid unwanted attention.
Most visits to Tunisia are problem-free, and its social attitudes are more progressive than in many other countries in the region. This is especially true when it comes to the position of women, who have long enjoyed unusually strong legal rights. Tunisians are typically tolerant of other cultures and open to forming strong business relationships and friendships with foreigners.
Cost of living in Tunisia
The cost of living in Tunisia is generally low compared with many other destinations. Housing, food, transport, and utilities all cost noticeably less than in most European cities. That said, prices have climbed in recent years as inflation has run high, so you should still budget carefully.
Services, especially tourism, make up the largest share of Tunisia’s economy, followed by manufacturing, agriculture (led by olive oil), and phosphate mining. Most expats who relocate here work in senior roles in these sectors. They mostly settle in and around Tunis, although some live in the industrial hubs of Sfax and Sousse.
Families and children in Tunisia
If you’re moving to Tunisia with children, you’ll find a growing choice of international schools, although the good ones fill up and fees can be steep. Most of them are in and around Tunis, and while some have been going for decades, others opened only recently.
These schools are known for high-quality teaching and small class sizes, and most run a broad programme of after-school activities. They follow British, American, French, or International Baccalaureate curricula, and have a good record on exam results and university admissions. Several French lycées also follow the French national curriculum, so francophone families have plenty of options too.
Most expats in Tunisia use private healthcare, which is of an excellent standard, especially in Tunis.
Weather in Tunisia
The weather in Tunisia is Mediterranean and fairly mild in the north, and much hotter and drier in the south. Summers are hot across the country, and last from about June to September. Along the coast, daytime highs are around 88°F to 92°F (31°C to 33°C). Inland and in the south, it gets much hotter, and temperatures regularly reach 104°F (40°C) and above.
Winters are mild on the coast, where daytime highs are around 59°F to 63°F (15°C to 17°C) and nights are cooler. Inland and in the mountains, it gets colder, and frost and even snow are possible at higher elevations. Most rain falls between autumn and early spring, and the wettest months in the north are around December and January.
Tunisia has its frustrations, but many expats stay for the mild climate, the long coastline, the low cost of living, and the easygoing pace, and few expats end up regretting the move.
Fast facts
Official name: Republic of Tunisia
Population: Around 12.4 million
Capital city: Tunis (also the largest city)
Other cities: Sfax, Sousse, Kairouan, Gabès
Neighbouring countries: Tunisia is bordered by Algeria to the west and Libya to the southeast, and is otherwise surrounded by the Mediterranean Sea.
Geography: Tunisia contains the eastern end of the Atlas Mountains and the northern reaches of the Sahara Desert. Much of the rest of the country’s land is made up of plains and low hills.
Political system: Unitary presidential republic
Major religion: Islam
Main language: Arabic (official). French is widely spoken.
Money: The Tunisian Dinar (TND) is divided into 1,000 millimes. The dinar is a closed currency, so you can’t get hold of it before you land or take it out when you leave. ATMs are widespread, and you can open a local account once you’re in the country.
Tipping: 5 to 10 percent in restaurants. Taxi fares should be rounded up.
Time: GMT+1
Electricity: 230V, 50Hz. Two-pin, round-prong plugs are used.
Internet domain: .tn
International dialling code: +216
Emergency contacts: 197 (police), 190 (ambulance), 198 (fire)
Transport and driving: Cars drive on the right-hand side of the road. Buses and taxis are common, and the main cities are connected by rail.