Phone Numbers in Aruba: A Comprehensive Guide

Quick Reference

  • Country: Aruba
  • Country Code: +297
  • International Prefix: 00
  • National Prefix: None
  • Typical Number Lengths: 7 digits

Overview

Aruba's telephone numbering plan is straightforward, with a focus on simplicity and efficiency. This guide provides an in-depth look at the structure of phone numbers in Aruba, dialing procedures, and regulatory information. Whether you're a telecom professional or a developer, understanding Aruba's system is crucial for seamless communication.


Number Formats

Aruba's phone numbers do not include area codes, operating under the unified +297 country code. Here's how the numbers are structured:

General Number Structure

Phone numbers in Aruba are 7 digits long, varying slightly by type:

Landline Numbers

  • Format: 5X{6}
  • Regex:
    ^5\d{6}$
    
  • Examples:
    • 5278919
    • 5298919

Mobile Numbers

  • Formats:
    • 290X{4}
    • 5[69]X{5}
    • 6[03]X{5}
    • 6[22]X{5}
    • 7[34]X{5}
    • 9[46]X{5}
  • Regex:
    ^(290\d{4}|5[69]\d{5}|6[03]\d{5}|6[22]\d{5}|7[34]\d{5}|9[46]\d{5})$
    
  • Examples:
    • 2905696
    • 5601234
    • 6305678

Toll-Free Numbers

  • Format: 800X{4}
  • Regex:
    ^800\d{4}$
    
  • Examples:
    • 8001234

Premium Rate Numbers

  • Format: 900X{4}
  • Regex:
    ^900\d{4}$
    
  • Examples:
    • 9001234

Summary of Number Formats

Number TypeFormatExample
Landline5X65278919
Mobile290X4, 5[69]X5, 6[03]X5, 6[22]X5, 7[34]X5, 9[46]X52905696, 5601234
Toll-Free800X48001234
Premium Rate900X49001234

Dialing Procedures

Domestic Calls

  • Landline to Landline: Dial the 7-digit number directly.
  • Landline to Mobile: Dial the 7-digit mobile number directly.
  • Mobile to Mobile: Dial the 7-digit mobile number directly.

International Calls

  • Calling Aruba from Abroad: Dial the international access code (e.g., 00 or +), followed by 297, and then the 7-digit number.

    Example: From the US, dial 011 297 5278919.

  • Calling Abroad from Aruba: Dial 00, followed by the country code, area code, and the local number.

    Example: To call the US, dial 00 1 212 5551234.


Number Portability

Aruba supports mobile number portability, allowing users to keep their phone numbers when switching providers. This enhances competition and provides flexibility for consumers.


Major Telecom Operators and Number Ranges

Aruba's telecom landscape is dominated by:

  • Setar: National telecom company with ranges like 52XXXXXX and 56XXXXXX.
  • Digicel Aruba: Known for mobile ranges such as 630XXXXX and 690XXXXX.
  • Flow: Operates in specific mobile and fixed-line ranges.

Regulatory Body

The Aruba Telecommunications Authority (ATA) oversees telecommunications in Aruba, managing number allocation and ensuring compliance with ITU-T standards.


ITU-T Standards

Aruba's numbering plan adheres to ITU-T E.164 standards, ensuring global compatibility.


Number Allocation and Management

The ATA is responsible for allocating and managing phone numbers, ensuring equitable distribution among operators and supporting technological growth.


Technical Restrictions and Special Cases

  • Golden Numbers: These memorable numbers may have higher fees or specific rules.
  • Number Blocking: Some ranges may be blocked to prevent fraud.

Technical Considerations

For developers and systems:

  1. Validation: Use regex patterns for number validation.
  2. Formatting: Support the +297 code and 7-digit format.
  3. Portability: Implement checks for number portability.
  4. Internationalization: Use ITU-T E.164 formatting for global compatibility.

For up-to-date telecommunications regulations, visit the Aruba Telecommunications Authority (ATA).