After years of security turmoil, Mauritania seeks to revive its tourism industry
Once a top destination with 30,000 annual visitors, Mauritania's tourism collapsed after Al-Qaeda-linked attacks in the mid-2000s. The government has since tightened security, reduced visa fees, and promoted the country abroad. With visitor numbers rising—7,000 this year—locals like Fatima Bouya are cautiously resuming tourism businesses, though infrastructure and competition remain challenges.