[2] The Dakhlet Nouadhibou Region, one of the primary administrative divisions of Mauritania, is named after it.

It is one of the largest natural ports on the Atlantic coast of Africa and the only one in Mauritania.

It is limited by the Cap Blanc (also known as Ras Nouadhibou ) headland on its western side.

The weather conditions also favour its use as a port as it is sheltered from winds and storms.

It is the base of the Mauritanian fishing industry, as well as the route by which the iron ore from the mines of Zouérat is exported from the country.