Comoros Phone Numbers: Format, Area Code & Validation Guide

This guide provides a comprehensive overview of the Comoros telephone numbering system, designed for developers, telecommunications professionals, and businesses operating in or interacting with the Comoros market. We'll cover number formats, dialing procedures, validation techniques, regulatory considerations, and future developments.

Understanding the Comoros Telecommunications Landscape

The Comoros archipelago, located in the Indian Ocean, has a streamlined telecommunications infrastructure. Oversight of this system is managed by the Autorité Nationale de Régulation des TIC (ANRTIC), which ensures consistent standards across the three primary islands: Grande Comore, Mohéli, and Anjouan. Historically, Comoros had a telecoms monopoly, but with support from organizations like the World Bank Group and IFC, the sector has been liberalized, leading to increased competition, improved service quality, and lower prices. This liberalization has driven significant growth in mobile broadband penetration, contributing to the country's economic and social development.

Number Formats and Structure

Comoros uses a closed numbering plan with a straightforward 7-digit structure for National Significant Numbers (NSNs). This consistent format simplifies telecommunications implementation across the islands.

• Country Code: +269
• National Significant Number (NSN): 7 digits
• International Prefix: 00

Here's a breakdown of number types and their structure:

Dialing Procedures

Domestic Calls

Domestic dialing within Comoros is simple and consistent:

• Landline to Landline/Mobile or Mobile to Landline/Mobile: Direct dial the 7-digit number.

International Calls

• Outgoing: Dial 00 (International Prefix) + Country Code + Number. For example, to call the United States, dial 00 1 5551234567.
• Incoming: Dial +269 + 7-digit number.

Number Validation for Developers

Accurate number validation is crucial for any application interacting with Comoros phone numbers. Use regular expressions to ensure data integrity and prevent errors.

Here are some examples in JavaScript:

// Complete number validation (including country code)
const fullNumberPattern = /^\+269[3478]\d{6}$/;

// National number validation (excluding country code)
const nationalNumberPattern = /^[3478]\d{6}$/;

// Mobile number specific validation
const mobileNumberPattern = /^[34]\d{6}$/;

function validateComorosNumber(phoneNumber) {
    const cleanNumber = phoneNumber.replace(/\s+/g, ''); // Remove whitespace
    return fullNumberPattern.test(cleanNumber);
}

function formatComorosNumber(phoneNumber) {
    try {
        const cleaned = phoneNumber.replace(/\D/g, ''); // Remove non-digits
        if (cleaned.length === 7) {
            return `+269${cleaned}`; // Add country code if missing
        } else if (cleaned.length === 10 && cleaned.startsWith('269')) {
            return `+${cleaned}`; // Already in international format
        } else {
            throw new Error('Invalid number format');
        }
    } catch (error) {
        console.error('Number formatting failed:', error);
        return null;
    }
}

Best Practices:

• Strict Validation: Always validate using the provided regular expressions.
• Edge Cases: Handle special numbers like shortcodes (emergency services, service codes) separately.
• International Formatting: Store numbers in E.164 format (+269XXXXXXX) for consistency.
• Error Handling: Implement robust error handling for invalid formats.

Regulatory Framework and Compliance

The ANRTIC regulates telecommunications in Comoros. Key compliance areas include number allocation, service quality, consumer protection, and infrastructure development. Developers and businesses should stay updated on ANRTIC regulations.

Future Developments and Considerations

While Comoros currently lacks Mobile Number Portability (MNP), future implementation is possible, especially given ongoing digital transformation initiatives supported by the World Bank. These initiatives aim to modernize infrastructure and expand access to services. Keep an eye on ANRTIC announcements for updates on MNP, new number ranges, and evolving regulations. The World Bank's involvement has already led to significant improvements in the telecom sector, including increased competition and improved service quality. This ongoing development makes understanding the Comoros numbering system even more critical for businesses and developers looking to engage with this growing market.

Additional Tips for Developers

• Number Formatting for Display: Consider different formatting for local (XXX XXXX) and international (+269 XXX XXXX) display.
• System Integration: Ensure proper handling of country code prefixes and implement robust error handling.
• Caching: Consider caching frequently used numbers for improved performance.

This guide provides a solid foundation for understanding the Comoros telephone numbering system. For the latest updates and detailed specifications, always consult the official ANRTIC website.