Located 70 km from Dakar, Thiès is Senegal's third-largest urban centre with an estimated 765,000 people. Known as the ‘junction’ of Senegal, it is perfectly situated at the apex of three of the country’s main roads, including the new motorways to Dakar and Touba, and national routes to the south-east and Saint-Louis. As a result, Thiès is a very active city with many companies, especially Senegalese companies, choosing to set up offices there.
Features of Thiès
Thiès is one of Senegal's major transport hubs connecting all parts of the country via road.
During recent years, it has been divided into three districts, namely Northern Thiès, Eastern Thiès and Western Thiès (southern Thiès is less developed). You will therefore likely find accommodation in one of these areas, with Northern Thiès tending to offer more spacious accommodation close to restaurants and hotels. The city's university is also located in the district.
Good to know:
Like most of the country, the vast majority of the Thiessois are followers of Islam, and there is a large number of mosques in the city. However, there is great harmony between Islam and Christianity in the country and there are some churches and a cathedral in the city.
Finding accommodation in Thiès
Finding accommodation in Thiès is not as easy as other major cities as a lot of the availability is not advertised. As such, it is best to employ local knowledge to help you on your way. This could either be a local friend or estate agent, but also could be someone or an estate agent from Dakar, as there is a strong chance they will have connections that live and work in Thiès.
There are not many housing offers on the internet here, but if you do find one, make sure you are dealing with an honest person and avoid paying any advance fees.
Lease conditions in Thiès
A lease agreement is compulsory for all housing rental. Once you have signed this document, you have to register it with the nearest police station to your place of residence. The police officer will affix two CFA 2,000 stamps on each document. Note that the lease documents should mention all details pertaining to the housing rental, including a precise inventory of the property before you move in.
Rent prices in Thiès
There is no regulation regarding rent prices in Thiès like in the rest of Senegal, but in general, you will need between 75,000 and 130,000 CFA if you wish to rent a house or an apartment in Thiès. For example, a three-bed apartment would cost you around 110,000 CFA per month (as you can see, much cheaper than in Dakar).
Moreover, you will be required to pay a deposit before moving in. The amount will be determined by the owner or the real estate agency. If you have found accommodation through a real estate agency, you will be requested to pay a deposit equal to a month's rent along with a security deposit which is equal to one or two months' rent.
In the case of a long-term rental, housing insurance will also be required.
Useful links:
Sene Logement (in French)
Planete-Senegal
Likibu
Dakarium
Jumia
Mamaison
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