How to write and dial an 028 number

The standard format

028 9012 3456

The conventional UK layout is the area code 028, a space, then the eight digit local number split into two groups of four. The first two digits of the local number, 90 here, identify the local range. That is why people talk about “02890 numbers” for Belfast, even though 02890 is a range rather than an area code.

A memorable number is sometimes grouped differently to show its pattern, for example 028 90 123 123. The digits and the dialling are identical; only the spacing changes. On our number pages we show both the memorable grouping and the standard format.

Compact forms people search for

• 02890 — the area code and range written together, the most common way to search.
• 028 90 — the same range with a space.
• 2890 — the range without the leading zero, common when people are thinking of the +44 form.

Our search accepts all of these, with or without spaces, dashes or brackets.

The letter O is not a zero

It is easy to type O2890, with a capital letter O, instead of 02890. Phones cannot dial a letter, and a printed number with an O in it looks wrong to customers. Our search treats a letter O at the start of a clearly number-shaped query as a zero, but always print and publish the digit zero.

Dialling from outside Northern Ireland

From abroad, replace the leading 0 with +44, the UK country code. Callers in the Republic of Ireland can also use 048 in place of 028, followed by the same eight digits. 048 is a dialling alternative for calls from the Republic, not a country code or a guarantee of provider compatibility. Charges depend on the caller’s plan.