Solomon Islands Phone Numbers: Format, Area Code & Validation Guide

Gain a comprehensive understanding of Solomon Islands phone numbers, covering formats, validation methods, and the broader telecommunications context. You'll learn the numbering system, integration best practices, and insights into the country's evolving telecommunications infrastructure. Whether you're building SMS services, validating customer phone numbers, or integrating with local operators like Our Telekom and BMobile, this guide provides everything developers and businesses need to work with Solomon Islands telecommunications.

Solomon Islands Telecommunications Landscape Overview

The Solomon Islands' telecommunications sector presents unique challenges and opportunities due to its dispersed geography across over 900 islands. The infrastructure deploys using a hub-and-spoke model, with Honiara serving as the central telecommunications hub. This structure influences coverage areas and service availability.

Regulatory Framework and Licensing

The Telecommunications Commission of Solomon Islands (TCSI) serves as the independent statutory authority for economic and technical management of the telecommunications sector, established under section 6 of the Telecommunications Act 2009. The regulatory framework operates under these key principles:

• Licensing Requirements: No person or entity may provide telecommunication services or use radio frequencies in Solomon Islands without appropriate authorization from TCSI. The Commission issues two types of licenses: Service Licenses (for telecommunications service provision) and Radio Spectrum Licenses (for radio frequency use).
• License Classes: Service licenses are issued as either Class Licenses (standard applications via prescribed forms) or Individual Licenses (customized authorizations for specific operations).
• Number Allocation: TCSI allocates numbers to licensed operators in blocks of 1,000 geographic numbers or 10,000 mobile numbers per allocation, as defined in Part 13 of the Telecommunications Act 2009. The national numbering plan follows ITU E.164 standards (country code +677).
• Compliance and Enforcement: Part 19 of the Telecommunications Act 2009 establishes offenses covering message interception, data security, and unauthorized access. The Commission maintains authority to investigate market issues, service providers, anti-competition matters, and consumer complaints.
• Contact: TCSI, Level 2, Alvaro Building, P.O. Box 2180, Honiara; Tel: (+677) 23850; Fax: (+677) 23861

Geographic Distribution of Coverage

Telecommunications infrastructure distributes strategically across three tiers, offering varying levels of service reliability and technology access depending on location. You'll find different network capabilities whether you're in a major urban center or a remote outer island.

1. Primary Coverage (Urban Centers): These areas enjoy the most robust connectivity. Honiara boasts comprehensive 4G/3G coverage, while provincial capitals generally have strong 3G presence. Major business districts often benefit from reliable fixed-line services as well.

2. Secondary Coverage (Semi-Urban Areas): Market towns typically offer a mix of 3G and 2G coverage. Tourist destinations have strategically placed coverage points, and industrial zones often have dedicated network capacity to support business operations.

3. Rural Coverage: Remote islands primarily rely on 2G services, with community access points established in village centers. Satellite-backed connectivity is crucial for maritime routes and extremely remote locations.

Infrastructure Overview

The Solomon Islands' telecommunications backbone combines multiple technologies to overcome geographical challenges. Understanding these components is crucial when you work with telecommunications services in the region.

• Fiber Optic Network: The Coral Sea Cable System, which launched in January 2020, connects major islands and provides high-capacity international connectivity to Sydney, Australia. This cable significantly improves internet services and offers a more reliable connection than satellite-based alternatives. It's a key component of ongoing modernization efforts, with domestic fiber optic cables connecting Honiara, Auki, Taro, and Noro.
• Microwave Links: These links provide essential inter-island connectivity where fiber optic cables aren't yet deployed. They offer a good balance of capacity and cost-effectiveness for bridging gaps between islands.
• Satellite Systems: Satellite technology is vital for covering remote locations and providing backup connectivity. Satellite earth stations operate in Honiara and Gizo. While the Coral Sea Cable System has reduced reliance on satellite for international traffic, it remains essential for reaching the outermost islands and remote provinces.
• Mobile Towers: Distributed across population centers, mobile towers form the backbone of mobile communication services. GSM networks cover provincial capitals and townships. The ongoing SINBIP project (Solomon Islands National Broadband Infrastructure Project) is significantly expanding the reach of 3G and 4G services across the archipelago.

Emergency Services Integration and Phone Numbers

The Solomon Islands utilizes a priority-routing system for emergency services, ensuring reliability even during network congestion. This system prioritizes emergency calls and ensures rapid response times.

Emergency Contact Numbers and Response Times

Note: While 911 is listed as the general emergency number_ St. John Ambulance_ a primary provider_ recommends calling 111 or directly dialing (+677) 713 6000 in emergencies. This highlights the importance of having multiple contact options for critical services. Be aware of these variations when developing applications that interact with emergency services.

Technical Implementation for Emergency Services

Integrating with emergency services requires careful consideration of specific technical requirements to ensure reliability and effectiveness.

1. Priority Routing: Dedicated emergency channels_ network congestion override mechanisms_ and automatic location services are essential for ensuring emergency calls are prioritized and routed efficiently.

2. Redundancy Systems: Backup power supplies_ alternative routing paths_ and failover protocols are crucial for maintaining service availability in case of primary system failures. This redundancy is particularly important in a geographically challenging environment like the Solomon Islands.

Implementation Example (Python):

import requests
import time

def send_emergency_notification(number_ message_ location=None):
    """
    Send emergency notification with priority routing and retry logic.

    Args:
        number: Emergency service number (911_ 999_ 988_ 111)
        message: Emergency message content
        location: Optional GPS coordinates (lat_ lon)

    Returns:
        dict: Response with status and delivery confirmation
    """
    config = {
        'priority': 'emergency'_  # Highest priority routing
        'timeout': 10_             # Reduced timeout for urgency
        'retry_attempts': 5_       # More retries for critical messages
        'retry_delay': 2_          # Seconds between retries
        'fallback_numbers': ['911'_ '999']_  # Alternative emergency contacts
    }

    # Validate emergency number
    valid_emergency_numbers = ['911'_ '999'_ '988'_ '111']
    if number not in valid_emergency_numbers:
        return {'status': 'error'_ 'message': 'Invalid emergency number'}

    # Prepare payload with location data
    payload = {
        'to': f'+677{number}'_
        'message': message_
        'priority': config['priority']_
        'location': location
    }

    # Attempt delivery with retries
    for attempt in range(config['retry_attempts']):
        try:
            response = requests.post(
                'https://api.example.com/emergency'_
                json=payload_
                timeout=config['timeout']
            )

            if response.status_code == 200:
                return {
                    'status': 'success'_
                    'delivered': True_
                    'attempt': attempt + 1_
                    'timestamp': time.time()
                }

        except requests.exceptions.Timeout:
            if attempt < config['retry_attempts'] - 1:
                time.sleep(config['retry_delay'])
                continue
            else:
                # Final retry failed_ attempt fallback
                for fallback in config['fallback_numbers']:
                    if fallback != number:
                        payload['to'] = f'+677{fallback}'
                        try:
                            response = requests.post(
                                'https://api.example.com/emergency'_
                                json=payload_
                                timeout=config['timeout']
                            )
                            if response.status_code == 200:
                                return {
                                    'status': 'success_fallback'_
                                    'delivered': True_
                                    'fallback_number': fallback
                                }
                        except:
                            continue

    return {
        'status': 'failed'_
        'delivered': False_
        'message': 'All delivery attempts exhausted'
    }

# Usage example
result = send_emergency_notification(
    number='911'_
    message='Medical emergency at location'_
    location={'lat': -9.4456_ 'lon': 159.9729}
)
print(f"Emergency notification status: {result['status']}")

Error Handling Patterns:

• Network Timeouts: Implement exponential backoff with reduced initial timeout (10s) for emergency calls versus standard calls (30s)
• Delivery Confirmation: Always request delivery receipts and log all emergency call attempts with timestamps
• Fallback Mechanisms: Maintain list of alternative emergency numbers and attempt delivery to backup contacts if primary fails
• Location Services: Include GPS coordinates when available to assist emergency responders

Mobile Network Operators and Phone Number Prefixes

The Solomon Islands has two primary mobile network operators_ each with its own network characteristics and coverage areas. You'll need to consider these differences when designing applications for the Solomon Islands market.

Operator Profiles and Network Characteristics

• Our Telekom (7xx xxxx): Our Telekom_ established in 1988_ is the primary telecommunications provider operating across all 9 provinces. They provide 4G coverage in Honiara_ 3G in provincial capitals_ and rural 2G coverage. They offer data services and have been rolling out 4G/LTE services in Honiara on 700MHz (Band 28) and 1800 MHz (Band 3). Mobile numbers follow the format 7xx xxxx (7-digit format starting with 7). Mobile Country Code/Network Code: 540-01.

• BMobile (8xx xxxx): BMobile_ established in 2010 as a partnership with Vodafone_ focuses on affordability with urban 3G coverage and an extended 2G network. They currently operate in 4 provinces: Guadalcanal_ Malaita_ Western Province_ and Central Province. Mobile numbers follow the format 8xx xxxx (7-digit format starting with 8). Mobile Country Code/Network Code: 540-02.

Note: As of 2018_ mobile penetration reached approximately 80% with 482_209 subscribers and 95% network coverage across the country.

Data Service Specifications and Pricing

Our Telekom Data Services:

• 4G/LTE bands: 700MHz (Band 28)_ 1800MHz (Band 3)
• 3G UMTS available in provincial capitals
• HelloBundle packages: Data + Voice + SMS combinations (prices tax inclusive)
• Coverage: All 9 provinces with varying technology levels

*BMobile Data Packages (SBD_ dial 888#):

• $6 = 1GB (1 day validity)
• $15 = 2GB (2 days)
• $20 = 3GB (3 days)
• $27 = 4GB (7 days)
• $50 = 6GB (7 days)
• $100 = 10GB (30 days)
• $200 = 25GB (30 days)

Roaming Agreements: Both operators maintain international roaming agreements_ though specific partner networks vary by location. Check with your home carrier for roaming availability. The Telecommunications Act 2009 requires interconnection agreements between licensed operators to ensure service interoperability across the Solomon Islands network.

SMS and Telecom Integration Guidelines

This section provides practical guidance for developers integrating with Solomon Islands telecommunications systems.

SMS Gateway Integration

Integrating SMS services with Solomon Islands phone numbers requires careful attention to protocol support and network considerations. Several international SMS gateway providers offer services to Solomon Islands with varying pricing and features.

Recommended SMS Gateway Providers (Q1 2025 verified pricing):

For comprehensive tutorials on implementing SMS with these providers_ see our Node.js SMS integration guides and Twilio implementation tutorials.

Authentication Methods:

• API Key Authentication: Most providers (Twilio, Plivo, Sinch) use API key or token-based authentication passed in HTTP headers
• Basic Authentication: Username/password credentials for SMPP connections
• OAuth 2.0: Advanced authentication for enterprise integrations (Infobip, Sinch enterprise)

Implementation Example (Python with Twilio):

from twilio.rest import Client
import os

# Configuration
account_sid = os.environ.get('TWILIO_ACCOUNT_SID')
auth_token = os.environ.get('TWILIO_AUTH_TOKEN')
client = Client(account_sid, auth_token)

def send_sms_solomon_islands(to_number, message_body, sender_id=None):
    """
    Send SMS to Solomon Islands number with delivery tracking.

    Args:
        to_number: Solomon Islands number in E.164 format (+6777XXXXXX or +6778XXXXXX)
        message_body: SMS message content (160 chars GSM-7 or 70 chars Unicode)
        sender_id: Optional alphanumeric sender ID or phone number

    Returns:
        dict: Delivery status and message SID
    """
    try:
        # Validate Solomon Islands number format
        if not to_number.startswith('+677'):
            raise ValueError("Number must start with +677")

        local_number = to_number[4:]
        if len(local_number) == 7 and local_number[0] in ['7', '8']:
            # Valid mobile number
            pass
        elif len(local_number) == 5 and local_number.isdigit():
            # Valid landline
            pass
        else:
            raise ValueError(f"Invalid Solomon Islands number format: {to_number}")

        # Send message with status callback
        message = client.messages.create(
            body=message_body,
            from_=sender_id or os.environ.get('TWILIO_PHONE_NUMBER'),
            to=to_number,
            status_callback='https://your-domain.com/sms-status',  # Delivery tracking
            max_price=0.15,  # Prevent unexpected costs
        )

        return {
            'status': 'sent',
            'message_sid': message.sid,
            'to': message.to,
            'from': message.from_,
            'price': message.price,
            'direction': message.direction
        }

    except Exception as e:
        return {
            'status': 'failed',
            'error': str(e),
            'to': to_number
        }

# Handle delivery status callbacks
def handle_delivery_status(request_data):
    """
    Process delivery status webhooks from Twilio.

    Args:
        request_data: POST data from Twilio status callback

    Returns:
        dict: Parsed delivery information
    """
    return {
        'message_sid': request_data.get('MessageSid'),
        'message_status': request_data.get('MessageStatus'),  # sent, delivered, failed, undelivered
        'error_code': request_data.get('ErrorCode'),
        'error_message': request_data.get('ErrorMessage'),
        'to': request_data.get('To'),
        'from': request_data.get('From')
    }

# Usage
result = send_sms_solomon_islands(
    to_number='+6777123456',
    message_body='Your verification code is: 123456',
    sender_id='YourApp'
)
print(f"Message {result['status']}: {result.get('message_sid', result.get('error'))}")

Response Handling and Delivery Tracking:

# Expected delivery rates: 85-95% for Solomon Islands
# Typical latency: 5-30 seconds (urban), 1-2 minutes (remote areas)

def monitor_delivery_rate(messages_sent, period_hours=24):
    """
    Calculate SMS delivery success rate for optimization.

    Args:
        messages_sent: List of message SIDs from past period
        period_hours: Time period to analyze

    Returns:
        dict: Delivery metrics
    """
    delivered = 0
    failed = 0
    pending = 0

    for msg_sid in messages_sent:
        msg = client.messages(msg_sid).fetch()

        if msg.status == 'delivered':
            delivered += 1
        elif msg.status in ['failed', 'undelivered']:
            failed += 1
        else:
            pending += 1

    total = len(messages_sent)
    delivery_rate = (delivered / total * 100) if total > 0 else 0

    return {
        'total_sent': total,
        'delivered': delivered,
        'failed': failed,
        'pending': pending,
        'delivery_rate_percent': round(delivery_rate, 2),
        'period_hours': period_hours
    }

Network Considerations: Implement automatic fallback between networks to handle potential outages. Monitor signal strength indicators to optimize message delivery and handle timeout scenarios gracefully to prevent application errors. Given the varying coverage quality across the islands, robust error handling is crucial.

Coverage Optimization

Optimizing service delivery requires different strategies for urban and rural areas.

1. Urban Areas: Implement cell breathing algorithms to dynamically adjust cell coverage based on traffic load. Monitor network congestion and deploy dynamic resource allocation to ensure consistent performance.

2. Rural Deployment: Utilize low-frequency bands for better penetration and coverage in challenging terrain. Implement power-saving protocols and deploy hybrid power solutions (e.g., solar/diesel) to ensure reliable operation in areas with limited power infrastructure. The SINBIP project is actively addressing these challenges by deploying solar-powered towers in remote areas.

System Integration Notes

Consider these key factors when developing telecommunications services for the Solomon Islands.

1. Network Resilience: Implement store-and-forward capabilities to handle intermittent connectivity issues. Deploy redundant routing paths and monitor network health metrics to ensure service availability. This is particularly important given the reliance on microwave links and satellite connections in some areas.

2. Quality Assurance: Conduct regular coverage testing and performance benchmarking to ensure optimal service quality. Monitor user experience metrics to identify and address any issues promptly.

Monitoring Metrics and Thresholds:

> Implementation Tip: Always maintain a fallback communication channel for critical services, especially in areas with variable coverage. Consider SMS as a fallback option due to its wider availability compared to data services.

Phone Number Formats and Validation Rules

This section provides a detailed breakdown of Solomon Islands number formats and how to validate them.

Solomon Islands Phone Number Structure

The Solomon Islands uses the following numbering system as defined by the ITU (International Telecommunication Union) under country code +677:

• Country Code: +677
• Landline Length: 5 digits
• Mobile Length: 7 digits
• Format: National numbers vary by type

Number Allocation Process:

To obtain phone numbers in Solomon Islands, organizations must:

1. Apply for License: Submit application to TCSI for appropriate Service License (Class or Individual)
2. Request Number Block: Licensed operators request number allocation from TCSI in blocks of 1,000 (geographic) or 10,000 (mobile) numbers
3. Comply with Numbering Plan: Use assigned numbers according to national numbering plan guidelines (ITU E.164 format)
4. Maintain Records: Keep detailed records of number usage and assignment per TCSI requirements
5. Contact TCSI: For licensing inquiries, contact (+677) 23850 or visit www.tcsi.org.sb

Detailed Number Categories

Understanding the different number categories is essential for accurate validation and routing.

1. Geographic Numbers (Landlines):

   • Format: XXXXX (5 digits)
   • Example: 23456

2. Mobile Numbers:

   • Our Telekom: 7XXXXXX (7 digits starting with 7)
   • BMobile: 8XXXXXX (7 digits starting with 8)
   • Example: 7654321, 8123456

3. Toll-Free Numbers:

   • Format: 13XXXX (5 digits starting with 13)
   • Assigned to Solomon Telekom for free call services
   • Example: 13000 (contact TCSI for current toll-free allocations)
   • Note: Toll-free services may have limited availability; verify with operators before implementation

4. Special Services (Emergency, etc.):

   • Format: XXX (3 digits)
   • Examples: 911, 999, 988, 111

Regular Expression Patterns for Validation

Use these regular expressions to validate Solomon Islands phone numbers.

^\d{5}$         // Geographic Numbers (5 digits)
^7\d{6}$        // Our Telekom Mobile (7 digits starting with 7)
^8\d{6}$        // BMobile Mobile (7 digits starting with 8)
^13\d{3}$       // Toll-Free Numbers (5 digits starting with 13)
^\d{3}$         // Emergency Services (3 digits)

Validation Implementation Example (Python)

This example demonstrates how to validate a Solomon Islands phone number using Python and regular expressions.

import re
from typing import Dict, Tuple

def validate_solomon_number(phone_number: str) -> Tuple[bool, Dict[str, str]]:
    """
    Validate Solomon Islands phone number with detailed error reporting.

    Args:
        phone_number: Phone number in any format (with/without country code, spaces, hyphens)

    Returns:
        Tuple of (is_valid, info_dict) where info_dict contains:
            - type: 'landline', 'mobile_our_telekom', 'mobile_bmobile', 'toll_free', 'emergency', 'invalid'
            - operator: Network operator name
            - formatted: E.164 formatted number
            - error: Error message if invalid
    """
    # Remove all non-digit characters except leading +
    cleaned = re.sub(r'[^\d+]', '', phone_number)

    # Handle international format
    if cleaned.startswith('+677'):
        cleaned = cleaned[4:]
    elif cleaned.startswith('00677'):
        cleaned = cleaned[5:]
    elif cleaned.startswith('677'):
        cleaned = cleaned[3:]

    # Remove leading zeros (local format)
    cleaned = cleaned.lstrip('0')

    # Validate 5-digit landlines
    if len(cleaned) == 5 and cleaned.isdigit():
        return True, {
            'type': 'landline',
            'operator': 'Our Telekom (primary landline provider)',
            'formatted': f'+677{cleaned}',
            'length': 5
        }

    # Validate 7-digit mobile numbers
    if len(cleaned) == 7 and cleaned.isdigit():
        if cleaned[0] == '7':  # Our Telekom
            return True, {
                'type': 'mobile_our_telekom',
                'operator': 'Our Telekom',
                'formatted': f'+677{cleaned}',
                'mcc_mnc': '540-01',
                'length': 7
            }
        elif cleaned[0] == '8':  # BMobile
            return True, {
                'type': 'mobile_bmobile',
                'operator': 'BMobile-Vodafone',
                'formatted': f'+677{cleaned}',
                'mcc_mnc': '540-02',
                'length': 7
            }
        else:
            return False, {
                'type': 'invalid',
                'error': f'Invalid mobile prefix: {cleaned[0]}. Must be 7 (Our Telekom) or 8 (BMobile)',
                'length': len(cleaned)
            }

    # Validate toll-free numbers (13XXX format)
    if len(cleaned) == 5 and cleaned.startswith('13'):
        return True, {
            'type': 'toll_free',
            'operator': 'Our Telekom (toll-free services)',
            'formatted': f'+677{cleaned}',
            'length': 5
        }

    # Validate 3-digit emergency services
    if len(cleaned) == 3 and cleaned.isdigit():
        emergency_map = {
            '911': 'General Emergency',
            '999': 'Police',
            '988': 'Fire Services',
            '111': 'Ambulance (St. John Ambulance)'
        }
        service = emergency_map.get(cleaned, 'Unknown Emergency Service')
        return True, {
            'type': 'emergency',
            'operator': service,
            'formatted': cleaned,  # Emergency numbers don't use country code
            'length': 3
        }

    # Invalid format
    return False, {
        'type': 'invalid',
        'error': f'Invalid number format. Expected: 5-digit landline, 7-digit mobile (7XXXXXX or 8XXXXXX), 5-digit toll-free (13XXX), or 3-digit emergency. Got {len(cleaned)} digits.',
        'length': len(cleaned),
        'input': phone_number
    }

# Test cases with edge cases
test_numbers = [
    '+677 7123456',          # International format with space
    '677-8234567',           # Country code with hyphen
    '(677) 23456',           # Landline with parentheses
    '00677 7123456',         # International prefix format
    '911',                   # Emergency
    '13000',                 # Toll-free
    '+67712345678',          # Too long
    '9123456',               # Invalid mobile prefix
    '7 123 456',             # Mobile with spaces
    '0677 8123456',          # Leading zero with country code
]

print("Solomon Islands Phone Number Validation Results:\n")
for number in test_numbers:
    is_valid, info = validate_solomon_number(number)
    status = "✓ VALID" if is_valid else "✗ INVALID"
    print(f"{status} | {number:20s} | {info.get('type', 'N/A'):20s} | {info.get('formatted', info.get('error', 'N/A'))}")

Expected Output:

Solomon Islands Phone Number Validation Results:

✓ VALID   | +677 7123456         | mobile_our_telekom   | +6777123456
✓ VALID   | 677-8234567          | mobile_bmobile       | +6778234567
✓ VALID   | (677) 23456          | landline             | +67723456
✓ VALID   | 00677 7123456        | mobile_our_telekom   | +6777123456
✓ VALID   | 911                  | emergency            | 911
✓ VALID   | 13000                | toll_free            | +67713000
✗ INVALID | +67712345678         | invalid              | Invalid number format. Expected: 5-digit landline...
✗ INVALID | 9123456              | invalid              | Invalid mobile prefix: 9. Must be 7 or 8
✓ VALID   | 7 123 456            | mobile_our_telekom   | +6777123456
✓ VALID   | 0677 8123456         | mobile_bmobile       | +6778123456

Performance Optimization:

For high-volume validation (>1000 numbers/second), compile regex patterns once:

import re

# Compile patterns once for better performance
PATTERNS = {
    'landline': re.compile(r'^\d{5}$'),
    'mobile_7': re.compile(r'^7\d{6}$'),
    'mobile_8': re.compile(r'^8\d{6}$'),
    'toll_free': re.compile(r'^13\d{3}$'),
    'emergency': re.compile(r'^(911|999|988|111)$'),
}

def validate_solomon_number_fast(cleaned_number: str) -> bool:
    """Optimized validation for high-volume processing."""
    return any(pattern.match(cleaned_number) for pattern in PATTERNS.values())

This improved validation function handles landline (5-digit), mobile (7-digit), toll-free (5-digit starting with 13), and emergency service numbers according to the actual Solomon Islands numbering plan. The implementation handles common edge cases including international format variations, spaces, hyphens, and parentheses.

How to Dial Solomon Islands Phone Numbers

This section covers practical dialing procedures and planned improvements to the telecommunications infrastructure.

Dialing Procedures for Domestic and International Calls

• Domestic Calls: Dial all 7 digits directly for mobile numbers, or 5 digits for landlines. No area codes are required within the Solomon Islands.

• International Calls:

  • Outbound from Solomon Islands: 00 + Country Code + Number (international access code is 00)
  • Inbound to Solomon Islands: +677 + Local Number

International Calling Costs:

Outbound international calling rates vary by destination and operator. As a reference:

• Our Telekom and BMobile offer international calling plans and prepaid packages
• Typical rates range from SBD $0.50-$3.00 per minute depending on destination
• Check with your operator for current international calling rates and packages
• Data-based calling apps (WhatsApp, Skype) may offer more economical options where internet connectivity is available

Carrier Selection Codes:

Solomon Islands does not currently implement carrier selection codes (carrier pre-select or dial-around codes). All calls route through the subscriber's registered network operator (Our Telekom or BMobile). Number portability is under consideration for future implementation, which would allow subscribers to retain numbers when switching operators.

Future Developments and Considerations

The Solomon Islands telecommunications sector is undergoing continuous development. Planned improvements include:

• Mobile Number Range Expansion: This will accommodate the growing demand for mobile services. TCSI has allocated new ranges including 68-69 (SatSol Limited, effective June 2023) as mobile penetration continues growing.

• Enhanced Emergency Services: Improvements to emergency services infrastructure and technology are ongoing. Priority routing systems continue to be refined for better reliability during network congestion.

• Possible Number Portability: This would allow users to keep their numbers when switching operators. TCSI is evaluating implementation frameworks, though no specific timeline has been announced.

• Infrastructure Modernization - SINBIP Project: The ongoing Solomon Islands National Broadband Infrastructure Project (SINBIP) is expanding telecommunications infrastructure across the country. Key milestones:

  • Project Scope: Construction of 161 3G/4G mobile towers using microwave and VSAT backhaul connections
  • Current Status (April 2025): 102 of 161 towers constructed, 28 operational, 37 awaiting activation
  • Financial Performance: 25 operational towers generating SBD $2.3 million gross revenue (December 2024)
  • Target Completion: August 2026 for remaining towers
  • Coverage Goal: 80% population coverage upon full deployment
  • Funding: $66 million loan from China Exim Bank under Belt and Road Initiative
  • Impact: Significantly improving connectivity in remote areas, bridging digital divide, promoting economic development

> Note: Consult the Telecommunications Commission of Solomon Islands (TCSI) for the most current regulations and information. Additional technical details are available through ITU standards documentation.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the country code for Solomon Islands?

The country code for Solomon Islands is +677, as assigned by the ITU (International Telecommunication Union). Use this code when dialing into Solomon Islands from abroad: dial your international access code (usually 00), then 677, followed by the local number (5 digits for landlines, 7 digits for mobile numbers).

How many digits are in a Solomon Islands phone number?

Solomon Islands phone numbers have two formats: landline numbers are 5 digits long, while mobile numbers are 7 digits long. Mobile numbers starting with 7 belong to Our Telekom, and numbers starting with 8 belong to BMobile. Emergency services use 3-digit numbers like 911, 999, and 988.

Which mobile operators serve Solomon Islands?

Two primary mobile operators serve Solomon Islands: Our Telekom (established 1988) operates across all 9 provinces with 4G/3G/2G coverage and uses mobile numbers starting with 7. BMobile (established 2010, partnered with Vodafone) operates in 4 provinces with 3G/2G coverage and uses numbers starting with 8. As of 2018, mobile penetration reached 80% with 95% network coverage.

How do I validate a Solomon Islands phone number?

Validate Solomon Islands numbers by checking the length and prefix: landlines must be exactly 5 digits, Our Telekom mobile numbers must be 7 digits starting with 7, and BMobile numbers must be 7 digits starting with 8. Use regex patterns ^\d{5}$ for landlines, ^7\d{6}$ for Our Telekom, and ^8\d{6}$ for BMobile. Always remove the country code (+677) before validating the local number.

What emergency numbers work in Solomon Islands?

Solomon Islands uses multiple emergency numbers: 911 for general emergencies, 999 for police, 988 for fire services, and 111 for ambulance. St. John Ambulance also recommends calling (+677) 713 6000 directly for medical emergencies. All emergency numbers use priority routing to ensure calls connect even during network congestion.

How do I dial phone numbers within Solomon Islands?

For domestic calls within Solomon Islands, dial all digits directly without any area codes or prefixes – 5 digits for landlines or 7 digits for mobile numbers. No special codes are required for inter-island calls. The Solomon Islands uses a unified national numbering plan without geographic area codes.

What telecommunications infrastructure exists in Solomon Islands?

Solomon Islands telecommunications infrastructure includes the Coral Sea Cable System (launched January 2020) connecting to Sydney, Australia, domestic fiber optic cables linking Honiara, Auki, Taro, and Noro, satellite earth stations in Honiara and Gizo, microwave links for inter-island connectivity, and GSM mobile towers covering provincial capitals and townships. The SINBIP project is expanding 3G/4G coverage across multiple islands.

Can I use international SIM cards in Solomon Islands?

International roaming is available in Solomon Islands through agreements with Our Telekom and BMobile, though coverage and data speeds vary by location. Honiara offers the best 4G coverage, while provincial capitals typically have 3G, and remote areas rely on 2G. Check with your home carrier for roaming rates and coverage before traveling. Purchasing a local SIM card from Our Telekom or BMobile often provides better rates and coverage.

How do I integrate SMS services for business use in Solomon Islands?

For business SMS integration in Solomon Islands, use international SMS gateway providers like Plivo ($0.05656/SMS), Infobip ($0.0800968/SMS), Twilio ($0.1194/SMS), or Sinch ($0.13/SMS). These providers offer REST APIs and SMPP protocols with authentication via API keys or OAuth 2.0. Expect 85-95% delivery rates with 5-30 second latency in urban areas and 1-2 minutes in remote regions. Implement delivery tracking, retry logic, and monitor performance metrics. Volume discounts are available for enterprise users (>10,000-25,000 messages/month). Follow TCSI regulations and international best practices for consent management and opt-out handling.

What are the data pricing and packages available in Solomon Islands?

BMobile offers data packages ranging from SBD $6 (1GB, 1 day) to $200 (25GB, 30 days), purchased via *888#. Our Telekom provides HelloBundle packages combining data, voice, and SMS with tax-inclusive pricing. Both operators offer 4G coverage in Honiara, 3G in provincial capitals, and 2G in rural areas. International roaming is available but rates vary significantly—check with operators for current pricing. Local SIM cards typically provide better value than international roaming for visitors staying more than a few days.

Conclusion

You now have a comprehensive understanding of Solomon Islands phone numbers, from their formats and validation to the broader telecommunications context. By understanding the unique challenges and opportunities presented by the Solomon Islands' infrastructure and ongoing developments, you can effectively integrate with telecommunications systems and contribute to the growth of the digital economy in the region. Always consult the TCSI for the latest regulatory updates and best practices.