In addition to the public holidays, Islamic festivals are also observed.
The dates given for Islamic holidays are calculated according to the lunar calendar and therefore shift from year to year.
During the fasting month of Ramadan, which precedes Eid al-Fitr, Muslims are forbidden to eat, drink or smoke from sunrise to sunset, which causes disruptions or deviations in the normal course of business (including reduced opening hours of shops and authorities) and therefore there may be restrictions for travelers.
Many restaurants outside the hotels are closed during the day, and the consumption of alcohol and cigarettes is restricted or e.g. T. even strictly forbidden, even for non-Muslim vacationers. In hotel complexes it must be taken into account that meals and drinks during Ramadan may only be taken in the hotel restaurant or in the room.
Travelers should expect increased sensitivity in religious matters as well as in respect of Islamic traditions.
Some interruptions may also occur during Eid al-Fitr. This festival, like Eid al-Adha, is indefinite and can last from 2-10 days depending on the region.
Duty free shopping
Overview
The following items can be imported into Gabon duty-free (persons aged 17 and over): 200 cigarettes or cigarillos or 50 cigars or 250 g of tobacco (women may only import cigarettes); 2 liters of alcoholic beverages; 50 grams of perfume; Gifts up to a value of 5000 CFA Fr. More information is available from Countryaah.com.
Tropical suits or summer dresses. Appointments and business cards are common. French is the language of business. Translator and interpreter services are usually available, but knowledge of French is essential. Business hours: Mon-Fri 07.30-12.00 and 14.30-18.00.
Business contacts
Chamber of Commerce, d’Agriculture, d’Industries et des Mines du Gabon (Chamber of Commerce and Industry) 38, Av. du Marquis de Compiegne, BP 2234, Libreville, Gabon Tel. +241 (0)17 220 64.
Communication
Phone
Autodial Long Distance Service. No area codes. Almost all public phone booths require a phone card.
Mobile phone
GSM 900; Mobile phone companies are Celtel Gabon SA (website: www.ga.celtel.com/fr/index.html or www.msi-cellular.com), Telecel Gabon SA (website: www.telecel.co.ga) and Libertis. Roaming agreements exist with Germany, Austria and Switzerland, among others.
Internet
According to Abbreviationfinder.org, the main provider is internetgabon (Internet: www.internetgabon.com). There is a growing number of internet cafes in Libreville.
Post office
Airmail to Europe takes at least one week. Urgent letters should be sent by registered mail and express courier. Post office opening hours: Mon-Fri 08.00-12.00 and 15.00-18.00.
Radio
Since the use of shortwave frequencies changes several times over the course of a year, it is advisable to contact Deutsche Welle customer service directly for the current frequencies (Tel: (+49) (0228) 429 32 08. Internet: www.dw-world.de) to request.
